Bibliography:
Florian, Douglas. 2007. Comets, Stars, the Moon, and Mars. Orlando: Harcourt, Inc. ISBN 9780152053727
Florian, Douglas. 2007. Comets, Stars, the Moon, and Mars. Orlando: Harcourt, Inc. ISBN 9780152053727
Plot Summary:
Florian writes twenty poems about space ranging from the planets of the solar system to comets, constellations, black holes, and the great beyond. Each two-page spread contains one poem and a large illustration. The illustrations in the book are done with gouache, collage, and rubber stamps on primed brown paper bags. A "galactic glossary" and further recommended reading is included in the back.
Florian writes twenty poems about space ranging from the planets of the solar system to comets, constellations, black holes, and the great beyond. Each two-page spread contains one poem and a large illustration. The illustrations in the book are done with gouache, collage, and rubber stamps on primed brown paper bags. A "galactic glossary" and further recommended reading is included in the back.
Critical Analysis:
Here is another topical poetry collection by Florian that does not disappoint. Florian's illustrations are more abstract than realistic. Because of this, I would pair this poetry collection with some nonfiction books on space with photographs, especially with children who are being introduced to the subject. Although Florian's illustrations are incredibly unique and striking, it would be hard for a child to get a feel for what space is like by reading this book. That being said, the abstractness fits the poetry genre perfectly. Many of the poems are witty and sound great read aloud. Take a look especially at the poems on Pluto and Jupiter.
Here is another topical poetry collection by Florian that does not disappoint. Florian's illustrations are more abstract than realistic. Because of this, I would pair this poetry collection with some nonfiction books on space with photographs, especially with children who are being introduced to the subject. Although Florian's illustrations are incredibly unique and striking, it would be hard for a child to get a feel for what space is like by reading this book. That being said, the abstractness fits the poetry genre perfectly. Many of the poems are witty and sound great read aloud. Take a look especially at the poems on Pluto and Jupiter.
Review Excerpt(s):
Booklist: "Each broad double-page spread features a short, accessible poem about a subject such as the sun, each of its planets, a comet, a constellation, or the universe, set within an impressive painting."
Booklist: "Each broad double-page spread features a short, accessible poem about a subject such as the sun, each of its planets, a comet, a constellation, or the universe, set within an impressive painting."
Kirkus Reviews: "Stunning mixed-media illustrations accompany a series of poems that celebrate the wonder and mystery of space."
Starred Review from School Library Journal: "In both language and artwork, Florian strikes the perfect balance between grandeur and whimsy."
New York Times Book Review: "The most engaging verses in “Comets, Stars” serve up planetary facts with a dose of cheeky humor."
Starred Review from School Library Journal: "In both language and artwork, Florian strikes the perfect balance between grandeur and whimsy."
New York Times Book Review: "The most engaging verses in “Comets, Stars” serve up planetary facts with a dose of cheeky humor."
Connections:
This would be a great addition to a science lesson or unit on space. It is nice to get some meaningful poetry in with kids wherever we can and this collection of poetry will reinforce what is being taught.
This would be a great addition to a science lesson or unit on space. It is nice to get some meaningful poetry in with kids wherever we can and this collection of poetry will reinforce what is being taught.
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