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April 16, 2014

This Is What It's All About...

To those of you who think that poetry is of no interest to kids, or who think that poetry doesn't have a future in our society, think again!

I have participated in judging NH Public Television's annual writing competition (formerly Reading Rainbow, now PBS Kids) for more years than I care to admit. In that time I've come across some talented young writers and illustrators (see an earlier post here). I don't remember ever coming across a book that has impressed me as much as the book of poetry created by a NH third grader, Jishnu Pablo D., for this year's competition. The book is titled A Humble Book of Poems (with a little seasoning). I recommend you read the poems, look at the illustrations, then come back and tell me what you think. I think it's outstanding!

NHPTV link

Happy National Poetry Month, and thank you Susan Adams of NH Public Television, for allowing me to be a part of this fabulous program. Poetry is alive and well in New Hampshire, and Jishnu Pablo D. is a name to remember!

15 comments:

  1. What an impressive, special book! Congratulations to Jishnu Pablo! Wow. The illustrations are wonderful too.

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  2. Oh, this is gorgeous, Diane. I will share with our primary teachers. Congratulations to Jishnu Pablo! And thank you for sharing too!

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  3. Tabatha and Linda, I knew you'd love it!

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  4. Truly impressive work both artistically and poetically and I know third graders. I am wondering if this child perhaps studied with a teacher who uses Beth Ol'Shansky's superb Picturing Writing Workshop model. Evocative and moving in one.
    Janet F.

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    1. Interesting to speculate as to the educational methods!

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  6. Jishnu's mom kept a journal of his progress on his story as he worked on it. This is Jishnu's second winning story. He was the first place winner last year in second grade for his story, The Flying Stingray Family.

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    1. Did she post it online? I'd love to see his process. Thanks for stopping by.

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  7. Beautiful opening poem. Spring is so welcome this year, the muddy ground is good enough to eat and drink.

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    1. Wow, Laura, I guess you've never been to NH during mud season! You might change your mind about the goodness of mud!

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  8. This is wonderful, Diane! How fun it must have been to be a part of the judging process. Finding something like this, like hidden treasure.

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    1. Your other comment came through, I deleted it to make more room! The judging is always fun, but with 20 stories to read through, it does take a bit of time.

      I've been asked to speak at the awards ceremony in May. (OMG!)

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  9. Just read Jishnu's book...it's beyond wonderful,not least because of the gorgeous newspaper illustrations. Is it possible to buy a copy somehow? Thank you, Diane, for judging and for making it possible for us to enjoy this along with you!

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    1. I don't believe so, Heidi. The first place winner in each grade goes on to the national judging. I'm sure if it's successful there, someone will take notice!

      The illustrations are more impressive in person!

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