Favorite Poetry for Young People 2008

The year included an interesting variety, with picture book collections dominating, and new trends in poetry morphed with biography growing strong. There was also more experimentation with poetic form/topic and book layout which is fun for those of us who like to provide diverse models for aspiring writers and artists. This year’s list showcases a variety of categories, including poetry written by kids, novels in verse, and even nonfiction works about poets and poetry. I did a bit of research and found that you could purchase hard cover copies of this whole list for only $382-- and have a wonderful mini-library of 2008 poetry for young people that runs the gamut from the hilarious (Frankenstein monster parodies) to the transcendent (Billie Holiday's lyrical life). What a bargain!

The list begins:

Alarcón, Francisco X. 2008. Animal Poems of the Iguazú / Animalario del Iguazú. San Francisco: Children’s Book Press.

*Animal spirits, Spanish/English, vivid, energetic art

For more details, get your copy of The Poetry Teacher’s Book of Lists.

And if you already have the book, but would like to suggest additions, corrections, or offer other input, please do so in the COMMENTS area. Thanks!