Brian P. Cleary presents 20 of his own haiku (5,7,5 syllable poems) and 15 of his own lantern poems (1,2,3,4,1 syllable) poems, plus directions on how to create them yourself. “Traditionally, haiku have nature as their subject, and they often capture a specific moment. For this book, I’ve taken a broader approach to topics. You’ll find poems about nature as well as about school, pets, pizza, pancakes, and more.” ( page 4) These often funny poems, coupled with Andy Rowland’s often hilarious illustrations around each and every poem make this book a ‘hoot’ for even non-poetry lovers.

DECISIONS

Spanish homework or

a nap? Compromise: we’ll call

it a siesta.  (page 7)

Makes me want to take my hand at creating one or two haiku or lantern poems myself.

Includes: Further Reading list of books and websites.