Poetry came to life when the very talented music teacher in our Cape Cod elementary school used my poem “Drum” in her exploration of percussion recently. What a delight to read my poem to our K-3 students, to hear children drumming, to listen to them beat out the rhythm of this poem on various types of drums.
I was thrilled to collaborate with the music teacher in this effort, and to kick off this school year by celebrating the publication of the new middle-grade poetry anthology from Pomelo Books called WHAT IS HOPE? I made a video of myself reciting the poem so the music teacher could use it in her classes when I was not available to read it to each class in person. So I’ve been getting a lot of “I know your poem!” from children as I walk through the halls.
I’m grateful to editors Janet Wong and Sylvia Vardell for including my poem “Drum” in this lively and full-of-heart book. 100% of the profits from the book go to the IBBY Children in Crisis Fund. Where can you order it? Check here.
Happy Friday, friends!
On Fridays, I love taking part in Poetry Friday when I can, where writers share resources about children’s poetry. Check out the celebration of poetry on Matt Forrest Essenwine’s blog today.
That must be so thrilling to hear little voices saying, “I know your poem!” Congratulations on your inclusion in the anthology and for your well-deserved fame!
How exciting – and fun! – to know the kids were enjoying your poem like that! And congrats on the anthology, too, it seems like everyone I know is in it.
I am honored to share a poem in WHAT IS HOPE? with you, Mary.
What a fun experience, to read your poem and have the children interact! Congrats on the publication!
What a thrilling experience, Mary. So rewarding.
Love this collaboration and that they kids are excited for you!
How great to share your poem with kids and see them put it in action! I’m sure you love hearing them say “I know your poem!” I’m hoping to share my poem from the anthology, “Military” in November for Veteran’s Day at the school where I taught before retirement
What a fabulous collaboration, Mary! Kudos to you and your colleague for sharing your love of rhythm, rhyme, and music!
You’ll certainly keep that memory close to your heart, Mary. It’s wonderful that you shared to so many, even with a video, too!
That must have been amazing, Mary! Those students will remember this experience and your poem!
Mary, sweet photos of the little ones drumming and your poem as the inspiration! Hooray!