Riley child-rhymes. By: James Whitcomb Riley and With hoosier pictures by: Will Vawter

I grew up having a few favorite poems read to me from this book. There are some poems that certainly require you to conform to the country lingo in which they're written. Given the fact that this book was originally published in the late 1800's, it provides a wonderful look into history, poetry as entertainment, and a way of speaking that is not heard much anymore. My very favorite poem is "The Bear Story". It is "written" by a boy named Alex and has so many charming twists, turns and changes of mind mid-stream that it's both engaging and funny. Of course this book contains "Little Orphant Annie", and my other favorite, "The Raggedy Man." If you're a lover of old poetry or fun poetry, this is certainly a book that deserves a spot on your shelf. Enjoy!