This Place I Know: Poems of Comfort

In memory of the September 11th tragedy, this book was compiled initially to offer hope and comfort to children who witnessed the event firsthand, but has far broader application, speaking to all people, young and old, who suffer trauma. Eighteen poems, by contemporary and 19th-century poets, deal with loss, fear, and grief, and touch on feelings deep within, reminding readers that goodness and love prevail, after all, and that there is enduring strength in the constancy of nature. Work by 18 well-known children’s book illustrators such as William Steig, Petra Mathers, Chris Raschka, and Elisa Kleven reflects each artist’s unique style and complement the poems. A multicultural dimension to the words and pictures gives this title universal application, as life throughout the world is celebrated.

Other books by this author

Words and image combine on open pages encouraging readers to voice thirteen poems in two voices while learning about the critters introduced. Familiar animals populate each handsome, realistically illustrated page with color-coded poems (to facilitate reading together). “Nature’s Notes” are included for additional factual information about animals and their sounds.