Earthshake: Poems from the Ground Up

I am SO impressed with this book. Each poem looks at geology (yes, geology) in a slightly different way and evokes a different perspective on tales that can be millions of years old. Peters' inventive word play depicts the movement of glaciers ... she dares them to get a speeding ticket. In "Instructions for the Earth's Dishwasher," the continental plates get warned, "Remember, if anything breaks, it's your fault." This book is sure to get heavy use in classrooms because of its approach to geology and the lively discussions that will follow. As examples of poetry, it'll be useful in all the grades, inspiring inventiveness and word play. Felstead's illustrations are right on the mark, adding to the energetic nature of the poetry, making use of predominant blues and greens to portray earthly elements. And what a terrific read-aloud at home: imagine the parent-child talks this will engender, making science a hot topic around the house. (It's fun for adults, too--all the better.) A must-have.