It's National Poetry Month: The Perfect Time to Share Our Favorite Books of Poetry

Published Friday, April 19, 2019
Beowulf

I've always loved mythology and epic tales and Beowulf delivers both. From partying in grand mead halls, adventuring across land and sea, and slaying fantastic monsters, Beowulf does it all. If you have an interest in Norse mythology and/or epic poetry be sure to check out Beowulf.
-Jason

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Poetry for Kids: Robert Frost
Edited by Jay Parini, illustrated by Michael Paraskevas

This collection of Robert Frost poems have many of my favorites, including the following: Stopping by the Woods on a Snowy Evening, The Road Not Taken, and Choose Something Like a Star. I like how Frost's poetry captures the simplicity and beauty of the country setting. If you enjoy Frost too, then I recommend listening to Randall Thompson's Frostiana, which is seven of Frost's poems set to song. I had the pleasure of singing some of the poems during my choir days..
-Tirzah

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Scranimals
by Jack Prelutsky, illustrated by Peter Sis

I grew up believing that I didn't like poetry very much and I didn't want my kids to feel the same way, so I made an effort to learn about fun, children's poets. I discovered Jack Prelutsky, who has published over 50 poetry collection, when my children were young and his books became some of my favorite collections of children's poetry. Scranimals is about two children exploring Scranimal Island where they encounter all kinds of unusual animals including the fragrant Rhinocerose, the cunning Broccolions, and "if you are really, really lucky and very, very quiet, you will spot the gentle, shy Pandaffodil". This is a very fun, engaging book that book children and adults will enjoy.
-Katherine

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Gmorning, Gnight! : Little Pep Talks for Me & You
by Lin-Manuel Miranda, illustrated by Jonny Sun

I love the daily encouraging poems in this book. There's something quick to start your morning, reminding you to take care of yourself, or look at life differently, or try something new, and then a tie-in at the end of the day. I have a tendency to rush through books, so it was nice to have one that made me slow down and take it one day at a time (though you can read as many in a day as you want), making sure I didn't speed past any of it. It gives you a nice way to start and end your day, as well as something encouraging that you can share with family and friends.
-Kaylee

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About the Author

Katherine is the Social Media Coordinator and has been working at EPL since 2008. She loves books, especially ones with unique plots and those written so well that she can't put them down.