A Bunch of Punctuation

Gr 2-5--In this slight but lively volume, Hopkins showcases poems about punctuation. From commas to periods and every dash in between, kids' favorite marks are sure to find the spotlight at least once. "A Punctuation Tale" begins the adventure with a grammar introduction, leading into a solo poem for each mark, and capped with a punctuation-inspired poetry challenge. The poems do not adhere to any one particular structure, instead showcasing a variety of styles that seem best suited to their corresponding subject. Bloch's illustrations combine airy line drawings atop flat washes of color with the bold the punctuation marks. Most often the illustrations aid in illuminating meaning, though the duo with quotation-mark eyes may be a trifle unsettling or distracting. Perhaps not every poem works as well as it could, but as a whole this collection has great potential as a teaching tool. VERDICT Educators and libraries looking to provide grammar resources a bit lighter than the average textbook will find this a useful and enjoyable addition to their collection.--Taylor Worley, Springfield Public Library, OR

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"A collection of peppy poems and clever pictures explains different forms of punctuation. 'A Punctuation Tale' kicks off the proceedings with a punny description of a day full of punctuation...(and) 'Question Marks' is particularly delightful. The 12 poets included work with a variety of devices and styles for an always-fresh feel. Bloch's illustrations are delightfully surprising, both illustrating each poem's key points and playfully riffing on the punctuation itself. Both playful and enlightening, period." - Kirkus Reviews

"In this...lively volume, Hopkins showcases poems about punctuation. From commas to periods and every dash in between, kids' favorite marks are sure to find the spotlight at least once. Bloch's illustrations...aid in illuminating meaning...(T)his collection has great potential as a teaching tool." - School Library Journal