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Saturday, April 9, 2022

Hungry for the Arts: Poems to Chomp On. Written by Kari-Lynn Winters and Lori Sherritt-Fleming, with pictures by Peggy Collins. Fitzhenry and Whiteside, 2021. $19.95 ages 5 and up

 


"The Chore Bot

I've built myself a robot,
to bustle through my chores ... 
like make my bed and clean my room, 
so I can play outdoors. 

It's sculpted very craftily 
from things I found at home, 
like buttons, cans, elastic bands
and blocks of styrofoam.
"

In this third book in the Hungry for series (following books about Math and Science), the authors turn to the arts - visual arts, drama, dance, music. Each of the poems is designated by its art form in a color-coded circle at the corner of the page.  

The poems are filled with rhythm and motion. They invite readers to make choices about the arts that might be of most interest by sharing scenarios and good fun. From cats that improvise with guitars and drums, to a kitten sharing a song she has written, to jungle drama that leads to a pirate ship and to life in space all inspired by a 'tickle trunk's costumes, interested children will find much to emulate as they consider the place of the arts in their daily life. They are encouraged to create drama, dance, and imaginary creatures as they share the poems included. 

"And for you, small House Mouse 
piano would be best. 
Sing a little softer,
so we can hear the rest."

They did as Maestro asked, and even learned some more. 
Decrescendo then crescendo.
Hear their voices soar.
"

Bright artwork is an effective and enjoyable complement, featuring robots, dinosaurs, animals and a fun group of kids willing to take part and encourage others to do the same. Very inviting!

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