Ragged Robin: Poems from A to Z

Nonsense verses, ballads, and other poems on a magical theme introduce the letters of the alphabet, from King Arthur in Avalon through Moths and Moonshine to Zachary Zed.

Kindergarten-Grade 4-- Quirky characters and friendly beasts inhabit the pages of this inviting, delightful poetry book. The poems regale the letters of the alphabet, from King Arthur in Avalon, through moths and moonshine, to Zachary Zed, in tones variously lighthearted, serious, and magical. The nonsense verse, ballads, rhymes, and lyric poems are full of strong visual imagery and, while unerringly alliterative and rhythmical, they never become monotonous. They present unusual choices for the letters of the alphabet, and new surprises, while telling stories that pique the imagination and make readers want more. A reillustrated version of an acclaimed collection, this has dreamlike, fanciful watercolor pictures that expand upon the poems more so than those of the original by Jane Paton. Greens, blues, and earth colors predominate with the occasional contrasting spread of purples and mauves. The illustrations sometimes splash across the page, surrounding the poems with excitement, or dot each verse with a different scene. Reflecting the moods of the poems, these may be tranquil and pastoral, or exotic and madcap. Varied costumes create a timeless world within the pages, the characters' features are simply drawn yet expressive, and the preponderance of dogs and cats lends a cozy feel. Even the endpapers tell the story, opening and closing the book satisfyingly. --Annette Curtis Klause, Montgomery County Department of Public Libraries, MD
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