In If It Rains Pancakes, Brian P. Cleary provides a simple introduction and explanation to each type of poem, followed by an assortment of illustrated fun, kid-friendly examples. Cleary's silly poems make haiku and lantern poems feel much more accessible and achievable for kids than an explanation alone would.

I particularly want to commend the diversity of Andy Rowland's illustrations. Not only does he represent a wide range of skin colors in the illustrations throughout the book, but he also included at least one girl in a hijab and a nun. So not only can every child find a poem they think is funny, they can also recognize themselves in the pictures.

Note: I received a digital galley of this book through NetGalley. ( )

Cute, fun Haiku poems for children. An easy read and a great way to introduce children to Haikus, as well as Lantern poems.

#Haiku
#Lantern
#poetry ( )

A good little book of poetry for kids, with haikus and lanterns instead of the typical limerick style poem found in other popular books. The poetry is short and sweet, with a surprising amount of variety in subject matter, but all easy reads for kids. I never knew of lantern style poetry before this book, and was pleasantly surprised by Japanese lantern shaped poems. I too would be quite happy were it to rain pancakes. ( )