Rating: Not for Me

I would have given this collection of poems the title, “Deep Poems for Young Adults.“ It is difficult to imagine that kids would understand the majority of the poems given here, particularly without support from an instructor or discussion group.

Some of the poems are rather dark. One is called, “Ghost House..“ Another, “Out, out ” is about a buzz saw accident cuting off a kid’s hand and killing him. In the conclusion, everyone “since they were not the one dead, turned to their affairs.” I appreciate that this poem addresses the frailty of life, but also think my 2nd grader isn’t ready for it.

Many of the poems are tough to understand. I felt a bit lost or “meh” about half of the time.

Admittedly, I did enjoy one called, “The Tuft of Flowers,” which was about a man feeling thankful that the guy who mowed left a patch of flowers behind.

If you’re looking for some classic poems to read and discuss with your teenager, this would be a great choice.  However, as for me and my <7 year old kiddos, I’d rather introduce them to poetry with something more accessible.