This paper describes the vibrant poetry of Alice Schertle, who, after graduating from the University of Southern California, became an elementary school teacher. Alice enjoys talking to students of all ages and loves getting them excited about reading and writing -- especially the reading and writing of poetry.

After a successful career as a writer for adults, Pat Mora began creating books for children. Her first picture book, "Tomas and The Library Lady" (Knopf, 1997) is a tender story of a young migrant worker who unearths new worlds when he discovers the magic a public library holds. The text, cleverly interspersed with foreign words, became a…

This dynamic poet never has to look any further than her own backyard for inspiration. April is a wondrous month for poetry. Alice Schertle was born in April and Young People's Poetry Week is celebrated from the 11th through the 17th this year. Kristine O'Connell George was born on May 6, 1954, in Denver, CO. She is a great admirer of teachers;…

This article offers a brief biography of Nikki Grimes, who is fast becoming one of the most prolific and versatile African American poets for children of this time. She takes risks in her work and brings readers humor, pathos and sensitive views of life as she has lived and seen it. Born in Harlem, NY, on October 20, 1957, Nikki was sent to live…

Contains a short review of Jane Yolen's work and a short interview with her about what poetry is and what some of her influences have been. (TB)

The article recounts biographical information concerning Adelaide Crapsey (1878-1914), a little-known American poetess. It includes poems illustrating the cinquain, a stanza form she invented which is popular with children. (RD)

Reviews 34 selected volumes of children's poetry published in 1988. Notes that the books discussed include original works, picture book treatments, general and specific anthologies, and collections for mature and young adult readers. (MM)

Addresses of publishers whose books are cited are appended. (RD)

Discusses Black American histories, biographies, songs, stories, and poetry which can be important supplements to elementary social studies or cultural units or featured titles in the classroom library. (Author/SJL)

This column cites five poets (Pat Mora, Jane Yolen, Lilian Moore, Gary Soto, and J. Patrick Lewis) that will be highlighted in the January to May 2006 issues. This information can be used to begin a Poet's Fan Club in the classroom. Groups of students can select a poet in order to prepare for a forthcoming Poet of the Month display. Another idea…

Offers brief annotations of six original collections of poetry and seven poetry anthologies that make poetry come alive and that teachers will want on their bookshelves. (SR)

Presented are a wide variety of current and older titles that teachers and students can use to better understand Native Americans. The following are included in the bibliography: planning aids, music, poetry, art, and fiction. (KC)

A poet-in-residence discusses some of his teaching techniques for exposing students to a variety of poetry. (MM)

This book describes methods by which a teacher may introduce children to the appreciation and creation of poetry. The writer is a children's poet, an elementary school teacher, and an anthologist. The book begins with a chapter discussing what poetry is and what kinds of poetry appeal to children. Subsequent chapters discuss (1) poets likely to…

Briefly discusses the appeal of poetry for children and describes some of the ways in which school librarians can develop a poetry collection and enhance students' interest in poetry. Also included is an annotated list of the best poetry collections for students from the 1981 publishing year. (JL)