“Collage illustrations offer early readers an introduction to the beauty of poetry through the warmhearted relationships between a young boy and the friendly animals in his local park. . . . The liveliness of the language discloses early poetic mechanics such as alliteration (‘sun-warmed sand’), onomatopoeia (‘crisp leaves crunch’), a pinch of consonance (those internally rhyming ‘cool pools’). . . . In accessible yet colorful language, Archer reminds readers that poetry exists all around us. A vividly illustrated, inventively told opportunity for early readers to grasp the power of language to observe, entertain, and mystify.”—Kirkus Reviews
“Rich, multilayered collages illuminate a celebration of nature’s beauty. . . . A story like this might take place in the country, but in setting hers in a large urban park, Archer asserts that poetry and nature belong to city children, too.”—Publishers Weekly
“Atmospheric and evocative collage illustrations enhance the sense of peace and contentment shared by Daniel and his animal friends. . . . Readers who revel in the everyday small miracles in nature will identify with Daniel and appreciate this lyrical story.”—School Library Journal
“Fetching testament to the maxim that ‘poetry is all around us.’ . . . Glorious flora and handsomely textured rocks are abundant. . . . The lush oil illustrations, which consist of collages made from tissue paper and patterned with handmade stamps, create a world saturated in color and texture, complementing the animals’ well-chosen words about beauty and poetry in the natural world. Readers will take many repeat visits to Daniel’s inviting park.”—Booklist
“Beautifully illustrated. . . . A fantastic book to read aloud in the library or in the classroom to kick off a poetry unit or to celebrate National Poetry Month. Kindergarten teachers could even use this book to teach the days of the week, or for students to learn about different kinds of animals.”—School Library Connection
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