This book was reviewed for Netgalley

Oelschlager’s Ivy in Bloom is a charming introduction to poetry for younger children. Through adorable illustrations, we follow Ivy, who just can’t wait for spring to arrive. It’s a patchwork of poetry, culled from some of the greatest poets history has to offer, stitched together by Oelschlager.

 

I found the concept- being made from various other poems- to be interesting. Most flowed well to me, despite the varied writing styles of the poets’ whose work was incorporated, but there were a few parts that seemed disjointed. As a teaching tool, I find the idea wonderful. And successful! I shared this with several of my cubs and it got them interested in different poets, and there was nothing for it but that I should pull out some books of collected poetry from my library. As a poet myself, this pleased me to no end.

 

I really liked that the full poems from the original poets are included at the end of the book. I also liked the way the illustrations flowed with the tone of the poetry, at first grey and dreary, and ending in vibrant colour. I would highly recommend Ivy in Bloom by Vanita Oelschlager for any interested in poetry, be they adult or child, or any looking to cultivate an appreciation for poetry in younger audiences.