Poetry Friday

Poetry Friday Roundup is hosted today by Wild Rose Reader.

My selection is "Bees, Snails and Peacock Tails: patterns and shapes -- naturally" written by Betsy Franco and illustrated by Steve Jenkins. Franco's lively verse takes children on an exploration of the science and geometry behind many of nature's most interesting shapes and patterns. The bold colors of Jenkins' paper collages are a visual feast.

The intricacies in a Diamondback Rattlesnake's skin, the perfection of a bee hive's chambers, the symmetry of a spider's web -- geese, ants, puffer fish, even a deer mouse can be a source of delight. Use the poems as classroom discussion starters or share them during your next nature walk.