FICTION

A Spectacular Selection of Sea Critters: Concrete Poems

by Betsy FRANCO
illus. by Michael Wertz. 32p. ebook available. Millbrook. Oct. 2015. lib. ed. $19.99. ISBN 9781467721523. LC 2014041354.
COPY ISBN
K-Gr 3—A dazzling compilation of concrete poetry that highlights marine life, this book lives up to its title. Franco's delightful rhymes and rhythms bring to life the sights and sounds of the sea, while Wertz's vibrant illustrations enhance the poetry and set the tone effectively. The playful design makes the selections appear to swim across the page. However, the text is often difficult to read due to the font and color scheme, which may deter beginning readers. All the same, the poems are enjoyable, and more experienced readers will appreciate the concrete poetry format.
VERDICT A great addition.
Reviewed by Ellen Norton, Naperville Public Library, Naperville, IL
This collection of twenty-nine jaunty concrete poems about the undersea world explores the varied behaviors of marine life such as the needlefish, spiny puffer, coral reef, and spinner dolphin. The abstract aquatic scenes on blue backgrounds feature bold shapes and lettering in yellow, red, white, and orange. This book would pair nicely with a visit to the aquarium. Reading list, websites.
 , Aug 01, 2015

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