About the Book: I fell in love with DK’s A World Full of Poems as soon as it came out of the envelope. The gorgeous cover art fits perfectly with the interior illustrations and poetry. As a large hardcover book, it feels sturdy and should last many years with proper care. The built-in bookmark adds a convenient perk.

About the Poems: In DK’s A World Full of Poems, Sylvia M. Vardell selected diverse topics and styles of poems. Though the poetic forms vary, the poems are grouped into eight themed sections: Family and Friends; Feelings; Animals and Nature; Cities, Towns, and Travel; Fun and Games; Science and Art; Body and Health; A World of Learning.

In the section on feelings, I liked that the poems validate negative emotions, but do not promote releasing such emotions in negative ways. In fact, many of the poems encouraged children to help others and cultivate kindness. I also liked that poems suitable for physical movement were included. Though only one included movement directions, there were others that lend themselves to physical actions.

I think A World Full of Poems is suited best to elementary age children and younger. Most of the poems are simple and fun, designed to cultivate a love of poetry in a child. A few higher-level poems by well-known authors (Emily Dickinson, Robert Louis Stevenson, Lewis Carroll) pepper throughout the book.

Like many of the poems, the illustrations by Sonny Ross tended toward simplicity. However, bright colors fill the pages and my kiddos enjoyed paging through this book. We have read and discussed several poems together and the girls were very attentive. I am looking forward to integrating this book into our homeschool curriculum.

Final Thoughts: The DK A World Full of Poems: Inspiring Poetry for Children compiled by Sylvia M. Vardell makes an amazing introduction to poetry for younger children. Five stars!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this product via the Amazon Vine program. All opinions in this review are my own. ( )