PUMPKIN BUTTERFLY

A collection of 23 nature poems cycles through the seasons, emphasizing the play between the outward and the hidden realms. The vocabulary and imagery stretch the maturing apprehension of young readers: “Botanical Jazz,” about a sunflower, says, in part, “you’re breaking our eyedrums / trumpeting all that color and sun / blowing that blazing yellow jazz….” The use of contrasts—“heavy pumpkins and light butterflies”—vividly convey an observant look at what is often overlooked. Bright orange endpapers mirror pumpkin color, prefacing the title poem. Reynish’s decorative illustrations reflect a thoughtful and purposeful artistic hand. A fuzzy chick in an outstretched hand, cherries scattered across another page, a pile of decaying leaves, a wintry scene and a starry-night–filled room enhance the more accessible poems. While some poems are readily within readers’ grasp, others are more obscure, with a sophistication that exceeds the young-looking format. Guided reading will expand understanding and appreciation of these lovely, often challenging poems. (Picture book/poetry. 8-14)