My Heart is a Poem
#2 of 2 in Poetry for Everyone Series
What’s inside...
This is a book of poetry for everyone. This beautiful collection of poetry celebrates the brilliant thing that is feelings. It explores all the different emotions we experience and how different situations bring these emotions to the surface. From feelings of uncontainable excitement and inexplicable sadness to the electricity which surges from anger and pride, the poems in this anthology perfectly put into words all the different things we feel in our hearts. Vivid and stirring artwork from an array of talented artists brings breathtaking poetry from a range of voices to life.
Discussion points
How do you think the characters felt when they shared their poems? Can you relate to their emotions?
What is your favorite part of the book and why?
If you could write a poem about your heart, what would it say?
Why do you think it's important for the characters to express themselves through poetry?
How do you think the story would change if it took place in a different setting?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to share their feelings and thoughts as they relate to the book's themes, fostering a deeper emotional connection.
Discuss the significance of self-expression, like it’s shown in the book, and encourage your child to express their thoughts or feelings through their own creative project.
Draw parallels between the book’s scenarios and real-life situations to help your child apply the book's lessons to their own experiences.
Use expressive reading techniques like varying your tone and volume to mirror the emotions in the story, helping your child understand the emotional depth of the poems.
After reading, ask your child to create their own poem and share it, offering a supportive and appreciative audience just like the characters in the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Expression of Emotions
Explanation: In 'My Heart is a Poem', the protagonist uses poetry to articulate their feelings, demonstrating how words can serve as a powerful tool for emotional expression.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to use writing or speaking as a constructive way to handle emotions, be it through keeping journals, crafting stories, or verbal communication with peers and family.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: Throughout the book, the characters share their poems, which reflect their personal experiences and emotions. This sharing helps nurture a sense of empathy and understanding among them.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to listen to and understand diverse perspectives and feelings of others in their everyday interactions, fostering a more empathetic community.
Example Lesson: Creativity and Imagination
Explanation: The book is filled with imaginative metaphors and creative scenarios that not only entertain but also stimulate the mind.
Real-World Application: Children are inspired to use their imagination in play, storytelling, or art, enhancing their creative skills which are essential in problem-solving and innovative thinking.
Example Lesson: Resilience through Self-expression
Explanation: The main character faces emotional challenges but finds solace and strength in writing poems, showing how self-expression can be a form of healing.
Real-World Application: This teaches children that they can overcome personal challenges by finding healthy outlets for expression, such as art, music, or writing, which can provide comfort and resilience during tough times.
Example Lesson: The Value of Persistence
Explanation: In creating poetry, the protagonist encounters difficulties but continues to write and improve, illustrating the importance of persistence and practice.
Real-World Application: This can motivate children to persist in their endeavors, be it academic or personal, understanding that mastery comes with practice and perseverance.