Poetry for Young People: Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
Poetry for young people Series
What’s inside...
This anthology brings Henry Wadsworth Longfellow's poetry to life for children aged 10 and over. It includes excerpts from 'The Song of Hiawatha' and other popular works, accompanied by specially commissioned artwork to enhance the atmosphere and emotion of Longfellow's poetry. The book also features an introductory biography detailing Longfellow's childhood, career, and personal life. Supplementary word definitions are provided to aid understanding of the poems. The anthology is part of the critically acclaimed Poetry for Young People series and aims to make Longfellow's 19th-century American poetry accessible and engaging for young readers.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
9-12
Length
48 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What emotions do you feel when you read Longfellow's poems? Can you describe what in the poem makes you feel that way?
Longfellow often writes about nature and beauty. Which poem about nature did you like the most, and why?
How do you think the characters in the poems felt during their adventures or experiences?
If you could ask Henry Wadsworth Longfellow one question about his poems, what would it be?
Can you think of a moment in your own life that could be a poem? What would you title it?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading each poem, give a brief introduction to the context or setting of the poem to help your child relate better.
Encourage your child to visualize the scenes described in the poems and perhaps draw a scene that particularly captivated them.
Discuss the moral or lesson in each poem, if applicable, and relate it to everyday situations your child might encounter.
Play a word association game after reading a poem, where you and your child think of words or ideas that remind you of the poem.
Let your child recite their favorite lines or stanzas, emphasizing expressions and emotions, to enhance their connection to the text.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Perseverance in the face of challenges
Explanation: Henry Wadsworth Longfellow's poems often feature characters who overcome adversity through determination and strength of spirit.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to face their personal challenges, whether in school or in their social lives, with a positive attitude and persistent effort.
Example Lesson: Value of nature and beauty
Explanation: Longfellow's works frequently celebrate the beauty of the natural world and its capacity to inspire and soothe the human spirit.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to appreciate and seek out the beauty in their own environments, promoting a connection to nature and personal well-being.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: Through his narrative verse, Longfellow often explores the thoughts and emotions of his characters, fostering a deep sense of empathy and understanding.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by learning to recognize and consider the feelings and perspectives of others in their daily interactions, enhancing their social skills and emotional intelligence.
Example Lesson: Importance of history and tradition
Explanation: Several poems by Longfellow pay homage to historical events and figures, emphasizing the importance of remembering and honoring the past.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of learning about and respecting their history and cultural heritage, which can inspire pride and a sense of identity.
Example Lesson: The power of imagination
Explanation: Longfellow's creative and vivid imagery stimulates the mind, showcasing the boundless possibilities of the imagination.
Real-World Application: Encouraging children to use their imagination can enhance creativity, problem-solving skills, and provide a healthy form of escapism.