EMILY DICKINSON
From the Poetry for Kids series
by Emily Dickinson ; edited by Susan Snively ; illustrated by Christine Davenier
An illustrated Dickinson primer for young and old.
This first title in the Poetry for Kids series incorporates the editorial savvy of poet/scholar Snively and artistry of acclaimed illustrator Davenier in presenting this supple edition of Dickinson’s verse. Loosely grouped by seasons of the year, Snively’s 35 selections showcase Dickinson’s pithy contemplations of nature, animals, insects, and stages of life, presenting some of the poet’s greatest hits (“Because I could not stop for Death,” “I’m nobody! Who are you?” “A narrow fellow in the grass,” “There’s a certain slant of light”) alongside many delightful, lesser-known works sure to pique the interest of young readers and listeners. Throughout, Davenier’s sumptuous illustrations, utilizing pen and ink with vivid watercolors, depict scenes as wispy and suggestive as Dickinson’s poetry. Snively also adds small glosses of tricky vocabulary on each page, which help open up the intricate layers of meaning. Dickinson aficionados will be intrigued by the editorial note at the volume’s end, entitled “What Emily Was Thinking,” which includes one-line thematic summations of each poem, providing helpful entrees into these potent stanzas.
This arresting edition makes for a wonderful introduction to Dickinson’s poetry that’s sure to captivate all ages.
(introduction, glossary, notes, bibliography) (Poetry. 8-12)