Often considered literature for older readers, poetry has been one of the most neglected genres for the younger reader, even in the classroom. This helpful resource provides appealing curricular information for even the most reluctant and skeptical teacher….In providing a wealth of contemporary children's poetry resources for today's educator, this comprehensive guide is a must in every school and curriculum library.

American Reference Books Annual

With an emphasis on poets who are actively writing today, this resource for librarians profiles 62 contemporary writers of poetry for young people. Each entry includes brief biographical information on a particular poet, followed by a discussion of his or her work and some programming suggestions. Vardell (library and information studies, Texas Woman's U.) also provides a list of emerging Poets to Watch and supplies URLs for some popular poetry websites.

Reference & Research Book News

Vardell has created a comprehensive survey of 62 contemporary children's poets. Each of the one- to three-page entries begins with a brief biography and includes Web sites, bibliographies, suggestions for use and reading of specific poems, plus connections to other children's literature….The valuable appendixes include promotion activities, a caldendar of poets' birthdays, awards the different writers have won, and a bibliography of poems about libraries and reading. This book will be welcomed by all adults interested in connecting children with poetry.

School Library Journal

The guide is aimed at librarians and teachers wishing to promote an interest in poetry. Each entry includes a brief biography of the poet, a recommended Web site on their work, and a discussion of their more popular books and poems….This guide lives up to its title and provides educators with a practical approach to introducing the world of poetry to young readers.

Lawrence Looks at Books