Poetry Friday is hosted by The Drift Record/Julie Larios.

For Poetry Friday -- "The place my words are looking for: what poets sayabout and through their work" by Paul B. Janeczko.

  

Janeczko collects the poems and thoughts of 39 contemporary poets that includes Jack Prelutsky, Cynthia Rylant, Gary Soto, Joanne, Ryder, and PaulFleischman.  The book contains both verse and the inspiration and thought processes behind each poet's work. 

 J. Patrick Lewis was inspired by his childhood readings of classics such as Wind in the Willows and Alice in Wonderland.  The magic of animals talking led him to write from the animal's point of view as he did in his included poem "Mosquito."

 

"In these strange and serious times, I want to try a little silliness--wordplay or nonsense verse--where, for instance, a mosquito can explain what mosquitoes do best." J. P. L.

This book (written at a seventh grade level) will appeal to poetry fans who would enjoy a glimpse behind the creative curtain.