Every April since 1996, National Poetry Month arrives to praise the importance of poets and poetry. For 30 years, poetry enthusiasts have spent the spring month celebrating in a multitude of ways. Some people write a poem a day. Some read a poem a day. People share poems broadly. Events like readings, open mics, craft talks, slams, and more decorate bookstore, library, and school calendars.
Like so many readers, my earliest memories of poems include those hefty black-and-white books with line drawings and end rhyme. Even as an ardent poetry fan, I sometimes didn’t turn to poems, and my life lost a bit of luster for it. Poetry is a balm for the ears, a balm for the brain, and a balm for the heart. It is a precious thing to spend our days with, to partake in with others.
With April upon us, consider observing National Poetry Month by reading poetry-themed picture books. In order of publication, I’ve compiled a list of five children’s books delving into poetry—a revered poet’s biography, poems by famous poets, and a how-to guide for penning poems—for the little ones in your life, for the young at heart, and for anyone, really. Bring on the joy of sound, startling images, and deep feeling not only for April but for all year long.
Exquisite: The Poetry and Life of Gwendolyn Brooks by Suzanne Slade, Cozbi A. Cabrera
Published in 2020, this biography applauds the achievements of Gwendolyn Brooks, the first Black person to win the Pulitzer Prize in 1950 for Annie Allen. It details milestones, including the burgeoning writer’s first publication in a local newspaper at 11 and a national magazine soon after, and hardships, such as the Great Depression, difficult high school years, and financial woes. With Cabrera’s lively illustrations featuring various clocks, a bedroom full of floating poems on looseleaf, and sherbet-colored clouds, this breathtaking book meditates on inspiration, passion, and tenacity.
Remember by Joy Harjo, Michaela Goade
Adapted from Harjo’s poem of the same title in the iconic She Had Some Horses, this enchanting book delves into ancestry, identity, and interconnectedness. The 23rd U.S. Poet Laureate’s repetition of Remember at the beginning of sentences soothes, “Remember the wind. / Remember her voice.” Goade’s celestial images, lovely details (long eyelashes and luminous galaxies), and rich, earthy tones comfort and ground me and fill me with awe. Stunningly illustrated, this memorable poem from a classic collection of an adored author and performer makes a wonderful gift.
All Access members, read on for more fantastic poetry picture books!
How to Write a Poem by Kwame Alexander, Deanna Nikaido, Melissa Sweet
If you know a small someone curious about crayon-ing poetry, this moving poem co-written by Nikaido and Newberry Medal-winning author Alexander opens, “Begin / with a question,” and it always stops me still. Sweet’s gorgeous collage art features circles: bicycle wheels and stones, a sun and moon, hills. All of the playfulness of round things calls for a romantic O: O, savor this work with adventure at its essence. Accompanied by images of diving, art viewing, and handstands, this text encourages us to explore the world, to notice what we notice.
In Praise of Mystery by Ada Limón, Peter Sís
Engraved on the Europa Clipper, Limón’s poem currently travels to one of Jupiter’s icy moons, which makes me see stars every time I read it. I can’t pass by this title in a bookshop without touching it, wondering where in the universe the poem-adorned spacecraft flies on its journey to Europa. Sís’s deep blues, star-bright white, and radiant yellows complement the 24th U.S. Poet Laureate’s soul-nourishing words. I’m wishing on a comet that you reach for this sublime rumination on beauty, curiosity, and earthly delights—“whale song,” “leaf and blossom,” and “sun and shadow.”
Goldfinches by Mary Oliver, Melissa Sweet
2026 marks the release of beloved poet Oliver’s debut children’s book, a momentous occasion that calls for a stroll in the woods to gaze with intent and practice gratitude. If you want nature immediately, this must-read from the Pulitzer Prize-winning writer brings instant gratification. Artist Sweet appears on this list twice and for fantastic reason. From the hot pink thistle and golden birds to dreamy, wide-open spaces, this vibrant artwork adds even more marvel to the page. How Oliver’s resonant final line—“Have you ever been so happy in your life?”—has folded into my DNA, walks with me now.
If you crave more posts about poetry for children, meander through Three Poetry Books to Read with Your Kids, 6 Must-Read Middle Grade Novels in Verse, and 50 Must-Read Poetry Books For Kids.
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