Animal Poems of the Iguazú
Written by Franciso X. Alacron and illustrated by May Christina Gonzalez
Children's Book Press, 2008
Ages 6 and up, 32 pages
Award winning poet Francisco X. Alacron takes young readers on an enchanting journey through Argentina’s lush rainforest. Its inhabitants—mammals, reptiles, birds, and insects—introduce themselves in their own unique poetic voices. Butterflies describe themselves as "… multicolored flowers of the air." The yellow-billed toucan boasts that he has "two papaya slices for a beak." And the ants candidly share their views about the human sightseers who are so busy taking pictures of each another that they fail to notice the many small wonders at their feet.
In addition to noting the endangered creatures of Argentina’s Ybira Reta ("Land of the Trees"), this collection of twenty-six bi-lingual poems also celebrates the mist and magic of the dazzling Iguazú Waterfall, one of the seven natural wonders of the world. Gonzalez’s vibrant mixed-media images, crafted of stunning cut-paper backdrops and vivid paintings of each creature in the forefront, are perfectly paired with the eloquent, yet kid-friendly English and Spanish poems.
Animal Poems of the Iguazú includes several footnotes and a passionate introduction by the author advocating the protection of all endangered species. This inspiring collection, printed on 100% recycled paper, is an ideal resource for students and nature lovers of all ages.
Reviewed by Heidi Bee Roemer
This review is part of the Nonfiction Monday round-up posted at Mother Reader. Go check out all of the great posts!
How clever for the animals to introduce themselves through poetry....Great recommendation!
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