Foxworthy, Jeff, (2008), Dirt on my shirt. New York: HarperCollins. (Illus. by Steve Bjorkman). Grades K-2. Poetry.

Let's fact it: kids will like this book of poetry because it sounds a lot like a Foxworthy TV special. Following in a Ken Nesbitt-like fashion, these poems will appeal to young readers. Keep it displayed on your poetry shelf.

Silverstein, Shel, (2004), Where the sidewalk ends: 30th Anniversary special edition. New York: HarperCollins. Ages 9-12. Poetry.

You will have to beg your students to put this book down. Full of fun and witty poems, even your challenged readers will claim this book as their own. Use this book to hook reluctant readers and keep Silverstein's other books close by.

Schmidt, G.D. (1994). Poetry for young people: Robert Frost. New York: Sterling Press. Grade 3 and older. Poetry.

A good choice to put on the shelf during a poetry, season, or weather unit. These beautiful illustrations and the nature poetry of Robert Frost fuse together in this selection for younger readers. Students will encourage their teachers to read and model from this collection often.

Creech, S. (2003). Love that dog. New York: HarperCollins. Grades 4-8. Poetry.

Jack is told he must write poetry and does not want anyone to see what he has written. When Jack begins a correspondence with a noted author, he discovers the path to maturity and a love of poetry. Your students will make multiple connections with a book that brings their feelings right out in the open.

Highly recommended for intermediate grades.

Longfellow, H. W. (1996). Paul Revere’s ride. (Illus. by Ted Rand). New York: Penguin Young Reader's Group. Grade 2-5. Poetry.

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s poem, written in 1775, made patriot Paul Revere into a legend by neglecting to include Revere’s fellow riders. Though not totally historically accurate, Longfellow’s poem depicts an important and dramatic event in our nation’s history as the British march toward Concord to suppress the rebellious colonists. The text is made understandable the vivid illustrations, which capture the urgency of the situation as the farmers and British soldiers come into direct conflict. Longfellow’s poem uniquely presents this episode in American history.