When a Book Begins

When a Book Begins: A Book of Poems - A Whimsical Collection of Laughter, Imagination, and Creativity

Perfect for fans of Jack Prelutsky and Shel Silverstein, When a Book Begins: A Book of Poems invites young readers into a world of playful poetry, humor, and boundless imagination. Each poem starts with the engaging refrain "When a..."--setting the stage for surprising adventures, quirky characters, and unexpected twists that will delight.

In this fantastical world of poems, readers will meet a dog who takes on a wild car ride, a lost flower searching for home, a cranky crow having a particularly bad day, and many more unforgettable characters. Bursting with humor and heart, these poems capture the joy of language and the magic of storytelling. Plus, the final poem encourages young readers to unleash their creativity by writing their own endings--making this book an interactive and inspiring experience!

"Verses to brighten gloomy times, even for a forgetful flower, a cranky crow, and a depressed pastry."
"Dashielle offers sweet relief for both readers and the subjects of her poems, from a holeless buttermilk doughnut feeling as "flat as a pancake" to a lost and confused flower suffering an identity crisis ("Am I a tulip? Or maybe a poppy? / Am I original or maybe a copy?")--and for anyone else who's likewise down, such as the sad-looking, dark-skinned child in the opening illustration. For that youngster, at least, riding in a car with a reckless canine driver who howls out the "Bow Wow Blues" elicits a smile. Alternatively, and more feasibly for many, finding that clouds are good listeners lightens the mood of a grumpy crow in one poem, keeping busy indoors in another staves off boredom when "rain reigns" outside, and a glance into a mirror pool along with a hug from Mom is just what that little flower needs to become properly (and literally) grounded. The poet's generally simple language and unforced rhymes lend readability to the verses, and in Alarcon's illustrations, a racially diverse cast of children and adults mingles cozily with scenes of flora, fauna, and (as mentioned) pastry...all with human faces.
Sensitive, sympathetic, and imaginative." --(Picture book/poetry. 6-8)