"The Three Sisters
They call us the Three Sisters:
we're corn, bean, and squash.
Three flourishing sisters,
one nourishing meal.
Three ancient old sisters,
three histories braided
through stories of
Native American fields.
Three tangled-up sisters:
we can't tell exactly
where one plant begins
and another one ends.
They call us Three Sisters;
we're constant companions.
From planting to harvest,
inseparable friends."
For schools or classrooms considering planting a garden, this book provides inspiration, information, and a healthy dose of getting-down-to-it. Starting with the endpapers, readers will focus attention on the many tools and happy results of creating a garden.
The first poem gets to the heart of the matter, offering a clear look at what a garden can be. Readers are encouraged to pay close attention to the setting itself by inviting them to find a number of specific items in the garden. Following poems show how the gardeners make a clear plan, and keep careful observational notes on growth, weather, and the passing of the seasons.
The seeds to be planted have a voice of their own:
"The Secret Seeds
We seeds hold tomorrow
inside our shells.
What will we be?
We will not tell.
To find out what,
you'll have to wait
and watch us grow
from grain to great."
Gardeners have much to learn, and much to do to experience success. From germination to anticipation concerning the seeds planted and tended, to volunteering for garden care and learning about herbs and Latin names for each of the plants, there is a lot for them to do. The diary of a carrot is fun. The green bean bower is lovely. The passing of the seasons inspires many observations and even a riddle. Bugs, birds and growing flowers are also part of the conversation. The final poem shows the winter garden as it rests in anticipation of what spring will bring.
An author's note, followed by a list of notes on each of the poems is useful when considering any follow-up writing for interested students. Digital artwork by Daniel Duncan is colorful, detailed, and provides memorable moments in the life of this magical garden.
No comments:
Post a Comment