April is national poetry month so why not look at some recent poetry for all ages. These and much more can be found at your friendly neighborhood library, the Chatham Area Public Library.
These recently published books contain poetry about everything from injustice, self-love, nature, and… zombies. In Make Me Rain, seven-time NAACP Image Award winning poet, Nikki Giovanni celebrates her heritage in a deeply personal collection of verse that speaks to the injustices of society and the depths of her own heart. The Sun and Her Flowers by Rupi Kaur is a vibrant and transcendent journey about growth and healing. Her poems and illustrations have been wildly popular on Instagram, making her a well know instapoet. Margaret Atwood’s recent collection of poetry, Dearly, addresses themes such as love, loss, the passage of time, nature, and zombies. Jason Reynold’s book, For Everyone, is an inspirational poem written to the dreamers of the world. It was originally written for the unveiling of the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial and later as a tribute to Walter Dean Myers.
For older kids, the book of poetry, Inside Out and Back Again by Thanhha Lai, chronicles the life-changing year of 1975, when a young girl, her mother, and her brothers leave Vietnam and resettle in Alabama. The Undefeated by Kwame Alexander is a poem and love letter to black life in the United States. It highlights the unspeakable trauma of slavery, the faith and fire of the civil rights movement, and the grit, passion, and perseverance of some of the world's greatest heroes. For younger kids, plenty of picture books can be classified as poetry, but these are sure to bring enjoyment. Guyku by Bob Raczka is a humorous haiku collection perfect for guys (and gals) that celebrate outdoor fun throughout the seasons. Another lighthearted romp through four seasons, this time focusing on the forest, is A Whiff of Pine, a Hint of Skunk by Deborah Ruddell. Emma Dilemma by Kristine O’Connell George shows the highs and lows of having a sibling with funny, touching, and emotional poems.
Enjoy national poetry month by stopping by the Chatham Area Public Library to borrow some great books.