It’s a great invitation for “ordinary” kids to find something worthy of poetry in their lives, to see some aspect of everyday life with poetic eyes like Gwendolyn Brooks did. And it’s always extra special when the style of writing fits so beautifully with the story. This story so wonderfully details how Gwendolyn loved poetry and writing to her core and pursued it with a hunger. Suzanne Slade writes like a poet with well-chosen words and gorgeous imagery. Poetry of course! Explore different kinds of poetry and choose one to try out with an idea or experience from your life.Ĭhallenges: What challenges did Gwendolyn face? How did she overcome them. A bold artist who from a very young age dared to dream, Brooks will inspire young readers to create poetry from their own lives.

And in 1958, she was named the poet laureate of Illinois. Gwendolyn Brooks was the first Black person to win the Pulitzer Prize, receiving the award for poetry in 1950. This picture-book biography explores the intersections of race, gender, and the ubiquitous poverty of the Great Depression-all with a lyrical touch worthy of the subject. Exquisite follows Gwendolyn from early girlhood into her adult life, showcasing her desire to write poetry from a very young age. Gwendolyn Brooks (1917–2000) is known for her poems about “real life.” She wrote about love, loneliness, family, and poverty-showing readers how just about anything could become a beautiful poem. Yet her family owned great treasure – a bookcase filled with precious poems.Įach night, her father read fine poetry aloud, Gwendolyn grew up in the big city of Chicago with little money to spare. Themes/topics: poetry, Great Depression, African American history Title: EXQUISITE: THE POETRY AND LIFE OF GWENDOLYN BROOKS EXQUISITE: THE POETRY AND LIFE OF GWENDOLYN BROOKS truly is exquisite! Suzann e Slade is another favorite author who continually teaches me about the craft of writing picture books.Ĭongratulations to Ruthie Kirk! You’ve won a copy of IS IT OVER? by Sandy Brehl! Today, for Perfect Picture Book Friday, I’m sharing another favorite from the “BEST of 2020” lists.

What did gwendolyn brooks write about