Actual rating) 3.5

Now, let me start off by saying that there are definitely some beautiful pieces in here. Poems come in all shapes and sizes, and I am not one to harumph and haw at poets whose writing styles do not match the image of a stereotypical "poem". And I can definitely say this books presents more hits than misses. Consequently, when a poem fell flat for me, it stuck out like a broken thumb. Now, then again, this is coming from someone who spends a lot of time each week analyzing/writing about English literature. It's a lot easier for me to see holes in a piece of writing then it would be for whom this book is actually written for - difficult readers. And if you're trying to teach someone how to read critically, this is probably your best bet. The metaphors, similes, and everything else that makes a poem tick aren't exactly hidden, but they aren't worn on the sleeve of the piece, either. It's definitely a good starting point. Even for a more advanced reader such as myself, this is definitely a fun little read.

And while this is a totally different area, the art in this book has a quiet sort of beauty. It's not loud, it's certainly not colorful, but the simplicity of Morstad's style compliments the book's theme perfectly.

Overall, I would definitely recommend giving this book a read-over. ( )

Think Again by JonArno Lawson and illustrated by Julie Morstad is an excellent reflection of teenage fears, angst and desires. ‘Not too wordy’ and ‘not to preachy’ it allows the adolescent mind to carefully ponder themselves in this complex world. A great piece of literature.

http://tinyurl.com/mwuxvr8 ( )

Library Thing Part D #2 Poetry
Lawson, JonArno, and Julie Morstad. Think Again. Toronto: KCP Poetry, 2010. Print.

The cover art for Think Again caught my eye and once I started looking through the book the illustration urged me to reread the quatrain and go to the next quatrain and then go back and reread the previous quatrain. I loved the book. It’s composed of 48 quatrains and is in somewhat of a comic book art form. The illustrations speak of young first love and its ups and downs and miscommunications with powerful pictures like the house on the cliff just about to fall. The poetry is kid short and rich with images and pensive chewable lines. The poems create sensory images that give an old theme, relationship, 59 new and fresh pages to try on and wear. Several copies of this title should be included in the school library. Intended audience is 5th to 8th grade. Curriculum connection is language arts. ( )

The short, deceptively simple verse runs deep with kernels of wisdom about human nature and experience with which teens will certainly be able to connect and relate. The illustrations are spot on as far as contributing to meaning and comprehension of the message. "Think again" is exactly what this book stirs in readers. ( )

So sweet! And the illustrations are delightful. ( )