Our finalist review today comes courtesy of Cybils veteran and poet extraordinaire Elaine Magliaro, who blogs at Wild Rose Reader. Elaine is also one of the intrepid Blue Rose Girls, who have provided their insightful insider perspectives on children's lit and publishing since the early days of the kidlitosphere.
Back in November, Elaine wrote a review of Cybils Poetry finalist The Tree That Time Built: A Celebration of Nature, Science, and Imagination, written by Mary Ann Hoberman and Linda Winston and illustrated by Barbara Fortin. This impressive collection brings together selections from poets throughout the ages, all exploring traditionally "scientific" questions of nature and life on earth. Says Elaine:
It exemplifies how poets who carefully observe the planet, its animals and plants, can bring their creative resources to bear in expressing their thoughts and emotions about such things in ways that help us to appreciate the wonder of it all.
Check out her comprehensive review, along with a few samples of the poetry and an excellent list of further reading.