Dictionary for a Better World: Poems, Quotes, and Anecdotes from A to Z
Carolrhoda Books | 978-1541557758
Between the book’s covers you’ll find — for each letter of the alphabet — one or more thoughtful poems written by poets Irene Latham and Charles Waters and inspired by “words for a better world”.
Feel free to read and savor in any order that you like!
The book opens with an Abecedarian – a poem in which the first line begins with the first letter of the alphabet and continues with the letters in successive order, A to Z. Each poem is then paired with an illustration by Mehrdockht Amini, a short reflection from the poet, a related quote, and a Try It! section, which invites the reader to apply the poem’s key word in some way.
I have many favorites, but close to the middle of the book is the poem “Open,” by Charles Waters. Enjoy these lines from the beginning and end:
“Despite this
fury of hatred…
our hearts stay open.”
This form — a 6-line poem called a Shadorma — has a syllable count of three/five/three/three/seven/five. The poem is paired with an illustration of an open window, inviting readers to be open, listen, make a new decision, even embrace a change of heart.
The goal? Working together to create a better world.
CLICK TO ENLARGE © illustration by Mehrcockht Amini
Another favorite poem — this one by Irene Latham — is titled, “Hope”:
“Fierce
camel
carries us…
toward oasis shimmering
its promise. All travelers welcome!”
This poem is a nonet: a nine-line poem that begins with a one syllable line, adding a syllable until the 9th line of 9 syllables. (Nonets can also start with 9 syllables and make their way down to a 9th line of only one syllable!)
If I were still teaching in the classroom, this is a book I would dip into, reading one poem a day, considering the quote and poet reflection, then encouraging students to explore the invitation to “Try It!”
CLICK TO ENLARGE © illustration by Mehrcockht Amini
Other books by Irene Latham and Charles Waters: CAN I TOUCH YOUR HAIR?, illustrated by Sean Qualls and Selina Alko
Also, check out Irene Latham’s, NINE: A Book of Nonet Poems, illustrated by Amy Huntington
