Gorgeous! Some poems could work for kids as young as 8 or 9; the collection as a whole is mature and sophisticated enough for middle or high school. Sidman really seals her stellar reputation with this book (as if it hadn't already been sealed). ( )

I discovered the incredible illustrations of Pamela Zagarenski in 2021. This book is stellar. It contains beautifully written words that accompany the art work. Joyce Sidman is a two- time Newbery award winner.

Coupled with the incredibly illustrated works of two-time Caldecott award winning Zagarenski.

Reading this book which contains chants, blessings and beautiful poetry.

Highly recommended.

Four Stars ( )

One lovely thing about Joyce Sidman's poetry is that kids of any age can enjoy it.

Emphasize the rhythm, rhyme, and alliteration for very little ones. Getting-a-little-bigger kids can appreciate the humor and subject matter of some of the more concrete selections (including an actual concrete poem shaped like a cat), as well as a couple of the poems about experiences. Upper elementary and middle schoolers will find themselves in these pages, as well, perhaps in the lament for a well-loved teddy bear that's finally been packed away, the spell for invisibility, or the song about moving house. Sidman sings to teenagers with chants and invocations about unrequited love and inspiring teachers. For high schoolers, I especially liked "Starting Now." And grown-up kids will find an empathetic voice for the experiences of a changing body, illness, death, happiness, and peace.

Of course, these thoughts aren't meant as reading prescriptions: anybody can enjoy any of the poems at any time. The prescription is simply to buy the book so you can grow with it.

For what it's worth, my favorite is the opener, "Chant to Repair a Friendship."

Pamela Zagarenski's illustrations are beautiful, though abstract enough to be a bit inaccessible for some readers. I'd love to see what [a:Erin E. Stead|4581894|Erin E. Stead|https://d202m5krfqbpi5.cloudfront.net/authors/1381164347p2/4581894.jpg] would do with these poems. ( )

A wonderful collection of inspiring poems accompanied by beautiful illustrations. An elegantly designed book. ( )

A truly lovely small collection of poetry geared toward children, but really, enjoyable by anyone. ( )