Songs of Myself: An Anthology of Poems and Art
on Goodreads (13)
What’s inside...
Twelve poems and one traditional song with a variety of illustrations reflect how children feel about themselves.
Discussion points
What feelings did the poems and art in this book evoke in you? Can you describe a specific piece that made you feel that way?
Which poem resonated with you the most and why? Did the artwork that accompanied it enhance your understanding or feeling towards the poem?
If you could ask the author or the artists one question about their work, what would it be?
How do you think the poems and the art pieces are related? Do they convey the same message or different ones?
Can you think of your own experience that relates to any of the themes discussed in the book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about each poem and artwork, validating their interpretations and emotions.
Discuss the themes of the poems and how they might relate to your child's personal experiences or feelings, helping them connect with the material on a deeper level.
Ask your child to choose their favorite poem and artwork, and explore together what specifically stands out about those choices.
Create a comfortable and quiet reading environment that allows for thoughtful reflection and discussion.
Consider creating art together inspired by the themes or styles presented in the book, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation through creative expression.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Self-expression
Explanation: Through a diverse collection of poems and artworks, 'Songs of Myself' encourages children to explore and express their own feelings and thoughts.
Real-World Application: Children learn to articulate their emotions and ideas, fostering better communication skills in daily interactions with peers and adults.
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: The anthology includes varied perspectives that help children understand and connect with experiences and emotions of others.
Real-World Application: By recognizing diverse emotions and situations, children can develop compassionate relationships and manage social situations with sensitivity.
Example Lesson: Creativity
Explanation: The blend of poetry and art in the book serves as a creative outlet, showing children that art can be a medium for expressing their inner world.
Real-World Application: This inspires children to engage in creative activities such as drawing, writing, or performing, helping in cognitive development and emotional health.
Example Lesson: Appreciation of diversity
Explanation: Featuring a wide range of artistic styles and poetic voices, the book exposes children to cultural and personal diversity.
Real-World Application: Children learn to appreciate and embrace differences which can enhance social inclusivity and cultural awareness in their community interactions.
Example Lesson: Reflection
Explanation: Many poems in the anthology invite readers to reflect on their own lives and the world around them, fostering a deeper sense of self-awareness.
Real-World Application: Children can apply reflective thinking to better understand their actions and decisions, aiding in personal growth and learning from experiences.