FICTION

A Spectacular Selection of Sea Critters: Concrete Poems

by Betsy FRANCO
illus. by Michael Wertz. 32p. ebook available. Millbrook. Oct. 2015. lib. ed. $19.99. ISBN 9781467721523. LC 2014041354.
COPY ISBN
K-Gr 3—A dazzling compilation of concrete poetry that highlights marine life, this book lives up to its title. Franco's delightful rhymes and rhythms bring to life the sights and sounds of the sea, while Wertz's vibrant illustrations enhance the poetry and set the tone effectively. The playful design makes the selections appear to swim across the page. However, the text is often difficult to read due to the font and color scheme, which may deter beginning readers. All the same, the poems are enjoyable, and more experienced readers will appreciate the concrete poetry format.
VERDICT A great addition.
Reviewed by Ellen Norton, Naperville Public Library, Naperville, IL
This collection of twenty-nine jaunty concrete poems about the undersea world explores the varied behaviors of marine life such as the needlefish, spiny puffer, coral reef, and spinner dolphin. The abstract aquatic scenes on blue backgrounds feature bold shapes and lettering in yellow, red, white, and orange. This book would pair nicely with a visit to the aquarium. Reading list, websites.
 , Aug 01, 2015

Be the first reader to comment.

Comment Policy:
  • Be respectful, and do not attack the author, people mentioned in the article, or other commenters. Take on the idea, not the messenger.
  • Don't use obscene, profane, or vulgar language.
  • Stay on point. Comments that stray from the topic at hand may be deleted.
  • Comments may be republished in print, online, or other forms of media.
  • If you see something objectionable, please let us know. Once a comment has been flagged, a staff member will investigate.

RELATED 

BLOGS

Holiday Gift Guide: Six Inclusive MG Fantasies, a guest post by Marieke Nijkamp
by Amanda MacGregor
BOOKS

Gracie Under the Waves
by Park, Linda Sue
BOOKS

Make My Wish Come True
by Lippincott, Rachael & Alyson Derrick
BOOKS

My Weird School Special: Hip, Hip, Hooray! Every Day Is a Holiday!
by Gutman, Dan
BOOKS

Ramadan on Rahma Road: A Recipe Storybook
by Gutta, Razeena Omar & Faaiza Osman
BOOKS

Big Changes for Plum!
by Phelan, Matt
More
ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?

We are currently offering this content for free. Sign up now to activate your personal profile, where you can save articles for future viewing

ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?