AT BREAK OF DAY by Nikki Grimes, illustrated by Paul Morin. 1999. 32 pp. 0-8028-5104-5 (Eerdmans Books for Young Readers) $17.00. This retelling of
the creation story, in which God and Jesus create the world together, is accompanied by glowing, almost abstract artwork. It would make a beautiful gift for a spiritual, New Age friend.
FREEDOM LIKE SUNLIGHT: Praisesongs
for Black Americans by J. Patrick Lewis, illustrated by John Thompson. 2000. 40 pp. 1-56846-163-1 (Creative Editions) $17.95. This unique collection of poetry celebrates the lives of thirteen inspiring Black Americans, from
Arthur Ashe to Malcolm X. The poignancy of these "praisesongs" is further enhanced by John Thompson's superb illustrations. A glossary of biographical notes is a welcome addition.
POLKABATS AND OCTOPUS SLACKS:
14 Stories written and illustrated by Calef Brown. 2001. 32 pp. plus CD. 0-618-13304-6 (Houghton Mifflin Company) $18.00. Amusing collection of rhyming tales, including the story of Spider, the award-winning, high-wire walking,
pie maker. Hip tales and illustrations make this a must for any cool poetry collector.
STONE BENCH IN AN EMPTY PARK edited by Paul B. Janeczko, illustrated with photographs by Henri Silberman. 2000. 40 pp. 0-531-30259-8
(Orchard Books) $15.95. Haiku is mostly associated with pastoral settings. But its purpose, as Paul Janeczko points out, is to sharpen our powers of observation-wherever we are. These haiku, paired with elegantly composed
photographs, delight in the landscape and life of the city.
TO EVERYTHING THERE IS A SEASON illustrated by Leo and Diane Dillon. 1998. 48 pp. 0-590-47887-7 (The Blue Sky Press) $15.95. These verses have brought solace
and inspiration to people across the world, across time. It is fitting that Leo and Diane Dillon have chosen to illustrate each line with a pair of panels that represent-and are rendered in a style inspired by-a different
cultural setting. The artwork is stunning, the book a natural choice for gift giving.
TRUTH AND LIES: An Anthology of Poems edited by Patrice Vecchione. 2000. 128 pp. 0-8050-6479-6 (Henry Holt Books for Young Readers)
$17.00. Poetry is a vehicle for exploring the elusive nature of truth in this provocative anthology. As the book's editor says, "A poem doesn't enter through the front door. It goes in the back or through the window."
The work of many notable poets is included.