Amy's Book Nook

April is National Poetry Month!

1. Jamberry by Bruce Degen 25th Anniversary Edition ($7.99, HarperCollins, ages 3 to 6)- I remember this classic from when I was a kid. A little boy and his friend, the bear, pick a variety of berries in this charming story full of colorful art and rhyming text.

2. My Parents Think I'm Sleeping by Jack Pretlusky, Children's Poet Laureate and pictures by Yossi Abolafia ($3.99, HarperCollins, ages 4 to 8) - From the I Can Read Book series, this level three book for children reading alone is a good introduction to the poet Pretlusky and a good bedtime story for young kids. In 14 short poems that range from funny to pretty to spooky, Pretulsky calls on feelings all kids have as they ready for bed - from thinking of the day, to not wanting to fall asleep yet, to being afraid of the dark and what lurks in there. And the rhyming text is easy to understand.

3. My Dog May Be A Genius by Jack Pretlusky, Children's Poet Laureate and illustrations by James Stevenson ($18.99, HarperCollins, ages 5 to 10) - For a little bit older readers or more advanced readers, is this collection of Pretlusky's poems. These poems range from jokes and pure silliness to funny and scary poems about imaginary monsters. This 153 page volume could keep kids busy for a while - and perhaps spark an interest in writing their own poetry.

4. Don't Bump the Glump by Shel Silverstein ($17.99, HarperCollins, all ages) - The author of The Giving Tree's first poetry collection is available now and in full color. Full of strange, imaginative creatures, this book would likely amuse boys and introduce them to reading poetry.

5. Honeybee by Naomi Shihab Nye ($16.99, HarperCollins, ages 10 and up) - National Book Award finalist Nye delivers her collection of poetry and short essays about life, love, the planet, creative expression, and much more. This would be a good book for older children and adults that enjoy free verse work.