Robyn Hood Black - children's author, poet, artist

Apr 26, 2018 9:31 PM EDT

HA! Oh my goodness, I remember hating sewing class so much in high school, it was always "mistake, mistake, mistake" - I thought I was just terrible at sewing, but little did I know that it's really just par for the course! :-D Of course, if it were easier, we wouldn't get that thrill of victory at a completed project, would we? :-)

- Jane @ Raincity Librarian

Apr 26, 2018 9:51 PM EDT

Oh that fairy tale gets me for sure!! And I have had plenty of sewing disasters... one this week, actually. :) But wow that photo of your babies sure is precious. Good job, mama. xo

- Irene Latham

Apr 26, 2018 9:57 PM EDT

Hi, Jane! I finally settled down and took a sewing class with a neighbor - we were both young mamas and motivated! ;0) And such good lessons for life, beyond the actual cloth creations. Thanks for coming by! Thank you, Irene, and thanks for rounding us all up this week! I've made a small quilt or two, too. And though it's been years, I'm still holding onto my fat quarters for some future stitching! ;0)

- Robyn Hood Black

Apr 26, 2018 10:50 PM EDT

I remember sewing late into the night, and I'd start to make careless mistakes. My mom would tell me to go to bed...I was over-tired . I wouldn't always listen to that advice (really??) and I'd continue to try to push it, so I was making more and more mistakes. It took me a while to realize she was right! I take that lesson to heart in everything I do now. When I make too many mistakes, it must be time for bed! Bedtime can come really early some days.

- Donna JT Smith

Apr 26, 2018 11:13 PM EDT

(Eyeing the clock now as I type this....) Good advice, Donna - and I think I'll take it now, too! :0) Thanks for sharing. Yay, mom advice!

- Robyn Hood Black

Apr 26, 2018 11:23 PM EDT

I love April's poem, too, but your "zippity, stitchity" takes me back to that awful time of seam ripping. It does happen! Ingrid & I have been sewing and she got her own machine for her birthday. So far, little bags & pillows, but she's on her way! I love the little outfits that you made back in the day. I'm impressed!

- Linda Baie

Apr 26, 2018 11:59 PM EDT

Thanks, Linda - and I love that Ingrid is learning to sew! Heartened, too - I think it's a great thing for the next generation to know. XO

- Robyn Hood Black

Apr 27, 2018 4:26 AM EDT

ADORABLE photo. Yay for perseverance! Thanks for sharing your insights with IMPERFECT! xo

- Tabatha

Apr 27, 2018 5:40 AM EDT

I can't wait to get my copy! Yay!

- Ruth (thereisnosuchthingasagodforsakentown.blogspot.com)

Apr 27, 2018 8:23 AM EDT

Thanks, Tabatha - and CONGRATS again on your wonderful anthology - honored to have a poem in it! PERFECT for middle schoolers. ............................................................................................................................................................................. Hi, Ruth - LOVE your "Syllabus" poem - took me right back to my year teaching eighth grade part-time, and to being an eighth-grader, too. Such a nurturing perspective your poem offers, but with the perfect amount of middle school snark.

- Robyn Hood Black

Apr 27, 2018 8:52 AM EDT

I meant to also add that I love April's "Oce Upon a Time"! Could only be a fairy tale!

- Donna JT Smith

Apr 27, 2018 8:57 AM EDT

Amen, Donna! :0)

- Robyn Hood Black

Apr 27, 2018 9:00 AM EDT

Oh, Robyn--your poem brings back memories! I remember getting praise from my high school sewing teacher for the attractive broadcloth I brought in for our first project...and I also remember that this was the last time she praised my work! (Could you come over and sew a straight hem, please?)

- April Halprin Wayland

Apr 27, 2018 9:02 AM EDT

Hahaha, April! Love that. And you! Thanks for letting me share your poem, and thanks, as always, for your wisdom with just the right dash of humor mixed in.

- Robyn Hood Black

Apr 27, 2018 11:22 AM EDT

Love your poem and April's made me laugh. :) I remember taking sewing lessons and really identified with all the ripping and tearing and starting over. You captured it all so well. Love those plaid outfits you made for Morgan and Seth (he looks a lot like his Dad in that pic).

- jama

Apr 27, 2018 12:15 PM EDT

Ah, you're taking me back to the make-slippers-from-a-washcloth and stitch up an apron in Home-Ec days. I stitched many a Halloween costume for the kiddos when they were young, but never went so far as to making matching plaids that are now the talk of Facebook! Love the poem, Robyn.

- Buffy Silverman

Apr 27, 2018 1:12 PM EDT

Hi, Jama - thanks for all & Jeff will love your feedback, since folks usually comment on how much Seth looks like me! Who knew when I was making those plaid outfits (& tell Mr C. they had teddy bear buttons) that a couple of decades later we'd be whisking them off to Scotland on a little ancestral journey?! (Summer, here we come!) ............................................................................................................................................................................. ...Buffy - Ha! Your home ec project....! I'm sure your trick-or-treaters were adorable. And I guess I'll go check FB....

- Robyn Hood Black

Apr 27, 2018 1:47 PM EDT

Oh my, you had more success than I did with sewing! I'm just glad I never threw the machine through a window! My daughter, however, is a talented seamstress (thanks to a lady in our community who decided to teach a generation to sew since none of their mothers could). I do admire those who can create with thread and cloth and needle.

- Kay Jernigan McGriff

Apr 27, 2018 1:48 PM EDT

I love your "Zippity stitchity" poem Robin, it zips through with a couple wonderful "CLNK" s and "GGRRP" s, lots of fun onomatopoeia. Charming pick of your young children too. I became an accomplished sewer, though the time involved in seam ripping just didn't cut it or outweigh the benefits for me. But my daughter is an excellent designer and is going into fashion–I waited a long time before I mentioned any of these less flying remarks to her. Love that poem by April also, thanks!

- Michelle Kogan

Apr 27, 2018 4:54 PM EDT

Kay, what a wonderful woman that sewing teacher must be! I figured if Morgan ever wants to really learn (she was about as receptive to my efforts as I was to my mother's - ha!) , she can do what I did and take a class with a non-relative. ;0) Such a great skill for your daughter to have. ............................................................................................................................................................................. Michelle, yay for your daughter! Wonder where she got that love of design from? ;0) It definitely takes time and patience. I was not the perfectionist my mother has always been with regard to garment construction, though I'm perfectionistic about some other pursuits. But, like you, I enjoy creativity across a swath of endeavors.....

- Robyn Hood Black

Apr 27, 2018 8:02 PM EDT

April's poem IS perfectly succinct! And I can imagine your young self at the machine, stitching and re-stitching, stitching and re-stitching... Congrats to both of you on your inclusion in the book!

- Matt Forrest Esenwine

Apr 27, 2018 8:44 PM EDT

Hi, Matt - thanks. I did make one dress for myself during college before really tackling sewing as a new mom. That silly dress took FOR-e-ver. It was a flow-y sundress, and I ended up giving it to a young woman who was a migrant worker who had started attending the church we went to, because she was pregnant and it was so billowy- ha!

- Robyn Hood Black

Apr 27, 2018 9:56 PM EDT

This brings up so much. I am inspired to write my own imperfect poem. I loved to sew until I didn't. Thank you for sharing.

- Jone

Apr 27, 2018 10:09 PM EDT

"I loved to sew until I didn't." HA! Jone, you are a treasure. Thanks so much for coming by. It's such a great theme for poetry, isn't it? XO

- Robyn Hood Black

Apr 28, 2018 9:04 AM EDT

The matching outfits are adorable. The poem, by showing how much you went through to create the dresses, shows how much you love the kiddos who ended up wearing them. Lovely. Thank you for sharing. I'm looking forward to reading the entire anthology.

- Kimberly M. Hutmacher

Apr 28, 2018 9:51 AM EDT

Hi, Kimberly - thanks on all accounts! I hadn't really thought about sewing in years, and then when the idea popped up to submit a poem about it for the anthology, those tangled-thread memories popped right up! ;0) I'm enjoying the variety of poems in the book.

- Robyn Hood Black

Apr 28, 2018 10:15 AM EDT

Zippity Stitchy will now be in my head when I sew. My sewing poem would have to include "Zippity Stitchy, seam is done, WHAT? The bobbin ran out back there?!" :-)

- Keri Collins Lewis

Apr 28, 2018 10:39 AM EDT

Keri - HA! Oh yes, there's THAAAaaat! ;0) Thanks for coming by and sharing a chuckle.

- Robyn Hood Black

Apr 28, 2018 1:34 PM EDT

I love the sound effects in your poem! I learned to sew in grade school home ec, and I made a lot of my own clothes after that. Making Halloween costumes for our sons was always a pleasure for me, but I never attempted clothes for them after they grew out of their soft flannel baby gowns.

- JoAnn Early Macken

Apr 28, 2018 6:54 PM EDT

Hi, JoAnn - thanks for coming by with your own bit of story. That little girl in the picture is the one I'm giving your book to, so she can use in her classroom! ;0)

- Robyn Hood Black

Apr 29, 2018 10:36 AM EDT

I love your sewing poem SO/sew much! I can totally relate, which is to say I've pinned my share of tissue and ripped my share of seams.

- Mary Lee

Apr 29, 2018 4:39 PM EDT

Mary, Lee - Thanks "so/sew" much! :0)

- Robyn Hood Black

May 04, 2018 2:01 PM EDT

Dear Robyn, Appreciations & smiles with April & your poems highlighted here, but can I quibble with what you say about messing up your creative endeavors? Knowing your exquisite artwork at Artsy Letters, on Etsy, love your earrings, your stationery, your everything there. Happy month of May!

- jgaoffice@gmail.com

May 04, 2018 4:11 PM EDT

Dearest Jan, Thank you for your kind visit and kind words! And thanks for quibbling. You just never saw FIRST attempts at some of those items now in my shop - Ha! ;0)

- Robyn Hood Black

May 11, 2018 8:16 PM EDT

Terribly late to the sewing circle, but not to reading your poem, Robyn... just to commenting. I loved your poem from the moment I laid eyes on it in IMPERFECT. And oh! That photo of Morgan and Seth!... sigh. xo

- Michelle Heidenrich Barnes

May 11, 2018 9:30 PM EDT

I am always a day late and a dollar short myself, Michelle - thanks so much for coming by & for your kind words!

- Robyn Hood Black

Apr 19, 2018 10:16 PM EDT

Great post. Life does sometimes interfere with living, but then, if everything went according to plan, there'd be so much less to write about. I know someone who has a pear tree, but the squirrels wait until they're just about ready and strip the tree clean overnight!

- Diane Mayr

Apr 19, 2018 10:16 PM EDT

I enjoyed the reflective glimpses you shared. I must say when I read “pair, pare, pear” I immediately thought of the sentence a student wrote for that set of homophones: “Pare the pear for the pair.” We have a very old pear tree; it's full of white blossoms right now. Last year the blossoms were knocked off in a heavy rain and there were no pears. The year before there were so many several branches broke out of the tree. Birds and squirrels get to them before we do. And when they fall to the ground, the yellowjackets feast on them. I love their sweet heavy aroma in the late summer when the grass is parched and they are rotting on the ground. But what a mess to pick up!

- Alice Nine

Apr 19, 2018 10:36 PM EDT

Thank you for sharing your beautiful pair of Haiku and how they came about.

- Kimberly M. Hutmacher

Apr 19, 2018 11:36 PM EDT

Lovely haiku. I wrote a haiku to celebrate at https://friendlyfairytales.com/2018/04/17/orchid-haiku/. My kids were on vacation and we had gone to see marshes in early spring. So it was a quick one. Sad to hear about your friend and mom. My aunt has colon cancer, and she is still fighting after 7 years. Heart-breaking, the toll it takes. Best of luck with your art business and first hat.

- Brenda

Apr 20, 2018 7:58 AM EDT

Hi, Diane - Oh, the birds used to do that with cherry trees we had back on our little farm. I've been conversing with a squirrel each day on our side porch - perhaps he's eyeing that pear tree. ;0) Thanks for coming by! .............................................................................................................................................................................. Welcome, Alice - clever student! And, thanks for sharing your pear tree story. We had a tree like that out behind another house we lived in. Oh, the yellow jackets! It fed all kinds of critters along the food chain. The years this one has produced some fruit, I've seen nibbles, but not the mush like the other. Happy Spring! .............................................................................................................................................................................. Hi, Kimberly - thank you, and thanks for visiting! .............................................................................................................................................................................. Brenda - Thank you for all the kind words and wishes. Saying a prayer for your aunt. Such strength she must have. Glad you celebrated your kids' vacation with haiku; May we all keep our hearts "open" like that orchid and sky.

- Robyn Hood Black

Apr 20, 2018 8:28 AM EDT

Your hospital haiku is gorgeous, Robyn. And the graduation poem -- my youngest is about to finish high school and fly the nest! This is such an interesting looking pear tree. I would have guessed some kind of fig. Did you find out what variety it is?

- Laura Shovan

Apr 20, 2018 8:38 AM EDT

I love how you put together a few words to wrap your post, Robyn. A pair of haiku that I love and can learn from, paring down your days in order to help a friend, and celebrating a pear tree with spring fruit. Happy to hear that your mother is doing well, and best wishes to your friend. Also, congrats for the poem in Imperfect. My copy is on its way!

- Linda Baie

Apr 20, 2018 8:58 AM EDT

Howdy, Laura - Another year packed with bittersweet excitement for you and yours! And a new book, too. I haven't tried to figure out the variety yet.... The fig tree by the steps behind my studio's building is now covered in green, and each year it drips juicy figs for weeks. My snacks coming and going! We had an ANCIENT plum tree once that looked like a few limbs were already in the Afterlife, and yet it produced lots of the most delicious plums each year. Gives me hope at this stage of my life - ha! .............................................................................................................................................................................. Thank you, Dear Linda, for your lovely, warm comments. (You are such a light!) Congrats to you as well re. IMPERFECT - I can't wait to read everyone's poems!

- Robyn Hood Black

Apr 20, 2018 11:40 AM EDT

You always inspire me, Robyn, seeing beauty in all that surrounds you. Even a misfit pear tree! We have an apple tree out front that everyone keeps saying is dead, and it so is not! I had a chance encounter with a gorgeous bluebird this week, which inspired my haiku for today. -- Christie @ https://wonderingandwondering.wordpress.com/2018/04/20/bluebirds-and-lets-go-for-a-walk-nationalpoetrymonth-napowrimo-poetryfriday/

- Christie Wyman

Apr 20, 2018 12:40 PM EDT

This poem took me back to when my mother was in the hospital in the days before her death. It is exactly the way I felt.

- Cheriee Weichel

Apr 20, 2018 12:53 PM EDT

Lovely haiku--and I always enjoy hearing the stories behind them. Glad to hear your mom is on the mend and that you get your son home for a few weeks. We are looking forward to seeing our daughter soon once she is finished with her semester in England. I'll soak up her company before she heads back to campus for the summer.

- Kay McGriff

Apr 20, 2018 1:03 PM EDT

Robyn, I'm so glad your mother is doing well and that you'll have your boy back for a bit this summer. I love both poems, but the second one resonates with me the most at the moment. Empty nests may be calmer, but aren't nearly as satisfying. Thank you for sharing.

- Catherine Flynn

Apr 20, 2018 3:05 PM EDT

Both of your poems pack so much feeling into so few words. I'm always glad to earn about a poem's background, and I appreciate your homonym explanation.

- JoAnn Early Macken

Apr 20, 2018 3:07 PM EDT

glad to *learn* ! (Proofreading!)

- JoAnn Early Macken

Apr 20, 2018 5:15 PM EDT

Christie, such a lovely thing to say, thank you! And thanks for directing me over to your poetic bluebird celebration - love those "blue wave lengths" and that PIC you got of your feathered friend in flight - amazing. And, YAY old trees which still bear fruit! .............................................................................................................................................................................. Cheriee, thank you for coming by. I wish I had words of comfort for your loss, but I imagine you found (& find) solace in poetry. Robert Epstein's book THEY GAVE US LIFE came out in October and is a collection of haiku from around the world on the subject of parents. Sending warmest thoughts. .............................................................................................................................................................................. Hi, Kay - thanks for popping in. And thanks for the kind words. YAY that you'll get to spend some time with your world traveler before she heads back to campus - they get hard to keep up with when they're becoming adults! .............................................................................................................................................................................. Thank you, Catherine. True about the calmer part, and true about the missing our kids part. Sigh. .............................................................................................................................................................................. Hello there, JoAnn - thanks for coming over. And thanks for your kind comments. Also, I'm thrilled I was one of the book winners on your blog this month - just received the package this afternoon and can't wait to peruse! (Before passing along to teacher-daughter.) :0)

- Robyn Hood Black

Apr 20, 2018 6:40 PM EDT

So glad to hear that your mom is doing well!! Also glad that you are able to pare down as needed (and that Seth is coming!). Your poems are always a lesson in simplicity and resonance.

- Tabatha

Apr 20, 2018 8:32 PM EDT

Thanks so much for all, Tabatha - and thanks for hosting the Roundup today with your usual fun and flair. YAY, IMPERFECT!

- Robyn Hood Black

Apr 20, 2018 8:35 PM EDT

It's so exciting to find unexpected fruit! And I always love your haiku.

- Ruth (thereisnosuchthingasagodforsakentown.blogspot.com)

Apr 20, 2018 8:37 PM EDT

Many thanks, Ruth... Unexpected fruit is the best, and so full of juicy metaphor, too! :0)

- Robyn Hood Black

Apr 21, 2018 7:49 AM EDT

Your haiku is an inspiration to me. I always love the process/backstory bits, too! Thanks for wrangling us up last week for a fabulous birthday party for Lee!

- Mary Lee

Apr 21, 2018 8:49 AM EDT

Thank you, Mary Lee - sharing the personal backstory parts makes me a little uncomfortable sometimes, but I like learning that layer about other folks' poems, so I usually cast caution to the wind and hit "post"!

- Robyn Hood Black

Apr 22, 2018 6:45 AM EDT

Robyn, I love stopping by here. Yes, life does come at us fast. We must be available to the people in our lives first ... even when the urge to create art calls us. I'm in the end of my school year and mom of teens and so many writing moments have given way to the people. I am trying to remind myself to fully engage in the people moments. They really do make good writing material later! Hugs to you. Your first haiku really got me.

- Linda Mitchell

Apr 22, 2018 6:05 PM EDT

Lovely post Robyn, and you'll have to let us know how the pears fair. I came across your poems in the current issue–enjoyed seeing them there! Love the pic of the pears too, never seems to be enough hours in the day… thanks!

- Michelle Kogan

Apr 22, 2018 7:44 PM EDT

Hi, Linda - thanks for coming by and for sharing your insightful comments. Enjoy (?) - most of the time, anyway! - those teen years. They swoosh by. You won't regret those people priorities, and there will be more time to write later. (But I'm glad you're keeping a toe in the water now!) Thanks, Michelle - for all. And I'll give an updated pear report as spring turns closer to summer and these little orbs mature! :0)

- Robyn Hood Black

Apr 12, 2018 9:29 PM EDT

https://lindakulptrout.blogspot.com/2018/04/happy-birthday-lee.html Celebrating Lee and a Birthday Giveaway!

- Linda Kulp Trout

Apr 12, 2018 9:30 PM EDT

Happy Birthday Lee! You are such a gift to all of us. I hope you enjoy your day and this celebration. I'm continuing the Progressive Poem over on A Word Edgewise: https://awordedgewiselindamitchell.blogspot.com/

- Linda Mitchell

Apr 12, 2018 9:34 PM EDT

Thank you, dear Robyn for this lovely tribute to a very special person!

- Linda Kulp Trout

Apr 12, 2018 9:34 PM EDT

I have a Happy Birthday Lee Limerick on a LOBSTAH plate, and another poem on a LAUGH plate. Dig in! http://mainelywrite.blogspot.com/2018/04/l-is-for-laugh-and-limerick.html

- Donna JT Smith

Apr 12, 2018 9:43 PM EDT

Since it's Ekphrastic April, I found a painting "The Poet's Voice," to use as inspiration for a cherita in honor of Lee on his birthday. http://randomnoodling.blogspot.com/2018/04/poetry-friday-ephrastic-april-day-13.html Have a great day!

- Diane Mayr

Apr 12, 2018 9:45 PM EDT

Happy birthday, Lee! You are a gift to the world! Robyn, I have more birthday wishes (and a little gushing about World Make Way) over at my place: https://karenedmisten.blogspot.com/2018/04/poetry-friday-world-make-way-edited-by.html -- Thanks for hosting this week!

- Karen

Apr 12, 2018 9:46 PM EDT

Oops, sorry, I tried to make the link live. Obviously, it didn't work, so ignore the html.

- Diane Mayr

Apr 12, 2018 9:52 PM EDT

Kurious Kitty introduces library users to Mr. Hopkins' contribution to our collection on the off chance they don't know the breadth of his work. http://kuriouskitty.blogspot.com/2018/04/poetry-friday-happy-birthday-lee.html

- Diane Mayr

Apr 12, 2018 9:52 PM EDT

Happy birthday, Lee! We are all so grateful to you, for everything you've done for children's poetry, as well as for us personally. I hope you have a wonderful day and weekend! And thank you, Robyn, for organizing this little shindig!

- Matt Forrest Esenwine

Apr 12, 2018 9:53 PM EDT

I suppose a link would be helpful, too! https://wp.me/p2DEY3-1S0 (goes live shortly after midnight!)

- Matt Forrest Esenwine

Apr 12, 2018 9:54 PM EDT

Happy birthday from all of us at Teaching Authors! Celebrating the Crowned Prince of Poetry at TA: http://www.teachingauthors.com/2018/04/the-crowned-prince-of-poetry.html?m=1

- Bobbi

Apr 12, 2018 10:01 PM EDT

Happy Birthday, Lee! Thank you for filling our lives with poetry. I'm sharing my poems inspired by yours. http://alicenine.net/crows-and-a-deet-ed-tick/

- Alice Nine

Apr 12, 2018 10:06 PM EDT

Thank you, Robyn, for hosting the party, and happiest of birthdays to Lee!! I've got a review of a book that I pored over when I first began to write poetry for children, Lee's "Spectacular Science," and a poem that it inspired at my blog: http://buffysilverman.com/blog/?p=1296

- Buffy Silverman

Apr 12, 2018 10:13 PM EDT

Happy Birthday, Lee! And thank you, Robyn, for being the hostess with the mostess today! To celebrate Lee and his many, many books, I created a found poem from some of his book titles: https://readingtothecore.wordpress.com/2018/04/12/poetry-friday-happy-birthday-lee-bennett-hopkins/

- Catherine Flynn

Apr 12, 2018 10:16 PM EDT

Here is my post: https://friendlyfairytales.com/2018/04/12/why-salt-marshes/ In honor of Lee Bennett Hopkins — poet, poetry ambassador, inspiration and creator of a wonderful poetry community.

- Brenda Harsham

Apr 12, 2018 10:22 PM EDT

Dearest Lee, HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!! I wrote a poem for you over at Today's Little Ditty. It comes with a supersized hug. :) https://michellehbarnes.blogspot.com/2018/04/dmc-dont-ask-hopkinsaurus-by-michelle-h.html Robyn, thank you for rounding up all these fun birthday wishes and posts (and thanks to Linda and Amy as well). What a splendid affair!

- Michelle Heidenrich Barnes

Apr 12, 2018 10:23 PM EDT

Hi Robyn, Thank you for hosting Lee's party - here is Fats' contribution to the LBH party! https://gatheringbooks.org/2018/04/13/poetry-friday-the-13th-h-is-for/ Warmly, Myra

- GatheringBooks Ladies

Apr 12, 2018 10:35 PM EDT

Happy Birthday, Lee. I haven't met you in person, only on the screen, but your poetry lets me know you in the most special way. Thank you for all the years you've shared that with everyone. I've written about part of your journey to today on my blog. Thanks for this special post Robyn, and for getting it together, Linda and Amy! http://www.teacherdance.org/2018/04/poetry-friday-poems-in-celebration.html

- Linda Baie

Apr 12, 2018 10:49 PM EDT

Wishing You Many Happy Returns of the Day Lee! I'm continuing your Party at my blog with some "Spring" poetry of yours and mine, and art: https://moreart4all.wordpress.com/2018/04/12/poetry-friday-lee-bennett-hopkins-birthday-bash-and-napowrimo-day-13/ Thanks Robyn for this joy-filled Birthday Celebration for Lee, love all the drop-in Birthday greetings! Thanks too for hosting the Roundup.

- Michelle Kogan

Apr 12, 2018 10:55 PM EDT

Happy birthday, Lee! Sharing the poem I wrote several years ago in tribute to your poetry magic at http://laurasalas.com/poems-for-teachers/lee-bennett-hopkins-poetry-friday/. May this year be the most wonderful of your life. xox

- Laura Purdie Salas

Apr 12, 2018 11:04 PM EDT

Thanks for hosting Robyn and grand salutations to Lee Bennett Hopkins on the occasion of his birthday. His book, Pass the Poetry Please sits proudly (proud Lee) on my bookshelf. Today, I launching my campaign for more children's poetry in bookstores. Join me in my quest at: http://alanjwrightpoetrypizzazz.blogspot.com.au/2018/04/wheres-poetry-section.html

- Alan J Wright

Apr 12, 2018 11:10 PM EDT

Happy 80th Birthday, Lee! I'm featuring your exquisite WORLD MAKE WAY (with a giveaway) at Alphabet Soup! Enjoy your online birthday bash and have a spectacularly delicious celebration. And thanks to Robyn, Linda, Joy and Amy for planning this! https://wp.me/p1GE6P-9y3

- jama

Apr 12, 2018 11:19 PM EDT

Here's my birthday post for Lee with a poem from some of my favorite LBH books! Thanks for organizing this celebration, Robyn. https://pleasuresfromthepage.blogspot.com/2018/04/poetry-friday-npm-2018-happy-birthday.html

- Ramona

Apr 12, 2018 11:57 PM EDT

Happy birthday, Lee! I'm celebrating by sharing one of my favorite poems of yours, "Final Score" from the sports anthology OPENING DAY. Enjoy your day and all of the love from your many poetry fans. http://laurashovan.com/2018/04/happy-birthday-lee-bennett-hopkins/

- Laura Shovan

Apr 13, 2018 12:26 AM EDT

Here's my little tribute. Thank you for this celebration of Lee, Robyn. https://wordpress.com/post/deowriter.wordpress.com/11347

- jone

Apr 13, 2018 12:28 AM EDT

Student Poetry: https://maclibrary.wordpress.com/2018/04/12/poetry-friday-student-poetry-month-13-30/

- jone

Apr 13, 2018 12:36 AM EDT

Many, many, many happy returns of the day to Lee! I'm sharing a piece by a local poet this week: http://www.raincitylibrarian.ca/?p=20806

- Jane @ Raincity Librarian

Apr 13, 2018 12:49 AM EDT

Lee, thank you for being the consummate "poetry passer'. Special Happy Birthday greetings come your way from Long Island, NY. Robyn, thank you for hosting the wonderful birthday bash for Lee. My post, "Shh! It's a Surprise" is up at http://beyondliteracylink.blogspot.com/2018/04/shh-its-surprise.html.

- Carol Varsalona

Apr 13, 2018 12:49 AM EDT

Thank you, Robyn, for throwing this party for a man we all love! At The Poem Farm, I have invited some young artists to help celebrate Lee and one of his spring books - SCHOOL PEOPLE. I'm also in with a party favor - a copy of SCHOOL PEOPLE (compliments of Wordsong) to a commenter on the post. Happy birthday, Lee! Here is the link, Robyn - https://bit.ly/2HyHoCs xx

- Amy Ludwig VanDerwater

Apr 13, 2018 1:31 AM EDT

Happy Birthday, Dear One! I'm sharing my birthday greetings to you on Facebook! xo xo xo Robyn, thank you for hosting. Today I have the incredible slam poet Elizabeth Acevedo with a poem, video, and poetry prompt! http://www.nowaterriver.com/community-collection-14-our-younger-selves-with-elizabeth-acevedo/

- Renee LaTulippe

Apr 13, 2018 1:44 AM EDT

I just have to come out from behind that camera and wish you the happiest, happiest birthday, Lee, with lots of hugs and kisses! Are your ears buzzing? Jude and I have been talking about you!

- Stephanie Salkin

Apr 13, 2018 3:04 AM EDT

Wow, Robyn, you really know how to throw a party! Well done! I hope Lee is enjoying it :-) On the TEAM IMPERFECT blog, there are Molly Hogan's mini mistake maker riddle poems: https://mistakesanthology.blogspot.com/ And I have some as well: https://tabathayeatts.blogspot.com/

- Tabatha

Apr 13, 2018 3:16 AM EDT

I'm also celebrating Lee by re-sharing a poem he was generous enough to send in for the first edition of 30 Poets/30 Days on my blog years ago.... http://gottabook.blogspot.com/2018/04/its-national-poetry-month.html

- Greg Pincus

Apr 13, 2018 4:18 AM EDT

Hey Robyn, I have a poem for Lee with the Hawaiian birthday greeting--hau'oli la hanau. I'm at www.poetryforkidsjoy.blogspot.com Thanks for the credit and for a great party.

- Joy Acey

Apr 13, 2018 4:28 AM EDT

Thank you for hosting, Robyn! Here's my offering for today: https://thereisnosuchthingasagodforsakentown.blogspot.com/2018/04/poetry-friday-happy-birthday-lee.html I'm wishing LBH a happy birthday and I also have a poetry app recommendation and a poem by Tony Hoagland.

- Ruth (thereisnosuchthingasagodforsakentown.blogspot.com)

Apr 13, 2018 4:59 AM EDT

Thanks for all who organized this! And Happy Birthday, Lee! Over at The Drift Record I'm adding my voice to the Happy Birthday chorus. Here's the link: https://julielarios.blogspot.com/2018/04/happy-birthday-lee.html

- Julie Larios

Apr 13, 2018 4:59 AM EDT

Today I'm sharing my NPM Golden Shovel #13 "That Feeling You Get When You Solve a Hard Math Problem" and birthday wishes for Lee. https://readingyear.blogspot.com/2018/04/that-feeling-you-get-when-you-solve.html

- Mary Lee Hahn

Apr 13, 2018 6:25 AM EDT

Happy Birthday, Lee! Today I'm anticipating spring with some of my poems and one of yours. Robyn, thanks so much for hosting the Roundup and this party. What a wonderful idea! https://mbhmaine.wordpress.com/2018/04/12/anticipating-spring/

- Molly Hogan

Apr 13, 2018 6:38 AM EDT

Good morning good morning! Today I join the celebration by sharing the poem I read at Lee's NCTE Poetry Party in 2009, with thanks for the long-standing invitation to come into the house of Lee's poems, and to you, Robyn, for inviting us all! https://myjuicylittleuniverse.blogspot.com/2018/04/hb-to-mayor-of-poetrytown.html

- Heidi Mordhorst

Apr 13, 2018 6:41 AM EDT

Happy happy! What loveliness... I send my greeting from the road, with an ARTSPEAK! Harlem Renaissance birthday poem just for Lee. :) http://irenelatham.blogspot.com/2018/04/artspeak-harlem-renaissance-poem_13.html xo

- Irene Latham

Apr 13, 2018 7:04 AM EDT

What a fun party! Thanks for inviting me. I'm writing ekphrastic poetry with my father's art. Today I borrow a line from Lee's latest collection, World Make Way. https://reflectionsontheteche.com/2018/04/13/npm2018-happy-birthday-lee-bennett-hopkins/

- Margaret Simon

Apr 13, 2018 7:11 AM EDT

So much Love! So much Fun! At Bookseedstudio, our birthday card to Lee is "To Make This World A Whole Lot Brighter...: Find us at https://bookseedstudio.wordpress.com/2018/04/13/to-make-this-world-a-whole-lot-brighter/?preview_id=7194&preview_nonce=d65de4d8b0&post_format=standard&_thumbnail_id=-1&preview=true

- Bookseedstudio/JG Annino

Apr 13, 2018 7:30 AM EDT

Yippee! I love a celebration! Happy Birthday, Lee. I have a special poem from my Kindergarten class just for you! https://wonderingandwondering.wordpress.com/2018/04/13/happy-birthday-tribute-poetryfriday-npm-napowrimo/

- Christie Wyman

Apr 13, 2018 7:42 AM EDT

Thanks for doing the roundup this week, At Wild Rose Reader, I have a post about a sun poem that was first cut from my book THINGS TO DO--then revised and added back in--and a birthday wish for Lee Bennett Hopkins. http://wildrosereader.blogspot.ca/2018/04/cutting-poem-from-manuscript-things-to.html

- Elaine Magiaro

Apr 13, 2018 7:48 AM EDT

Happy happy happy birthday, dearest Lee! None of us would be here without you! THANK YOU for all you do and are! [Thank YOU, Robyn, for hosting this wonderful, virtual Lee-day celebration!] For my "poetry quote-a-thon," I am featuring three quotes from Lee at my blog: https://poetryforchildren.blogspot.com/2018/04/poetry-quote-thon-lee-bennett-hopkins.html

- Sylvia Vardell

Apr 13, 2018 8:27 AM EDT

Thanks for hosting such a fabulous birthday celebration! I've added more birthday wishes at A Journey through the Pages with a look back at poetry places. http://kaymcgriff.edublogs.org/2018/04/13/poetry-friday-happy-birthday-lee/

- Kay Jernigan McGriff

Apr 13, 2018 8:35 AM EDT

Happy birthday Lee! In his honor, I wrote a golden shovel poem, based on "Storyteller (for Augusta Baker) from one of Lee's most recent books, JUMPING OFF THE LIBRARY SHELVES. Thanks for hosting this birthday celebration, Robyn! http://carolwscorner.blogspot.com/2018/04/poem-13-happy-birthday-lee-bennett.html

- Carol Wilcox

Apr 13, 2018 9:26 AM EDT

I'm late, but happy to help celebrate. Here's my link. http://missrumphiuseffect.blogspot.com/2018/04/npm-4-13-and-poetry-friday-this-ones.html Robyn, thank you so much for organizing this amazing tribute.

- Miss Rumphius (Tricia)

Apr 13, 2018 9:36 AM EDT

I shared Dark Matter and Dark Energy by Alicia Ostriker at my blog, Bildungsroman: https://slayground.livejournal.com/870576.html Thanks for hosting! Happy Friday!

- Little Willow

Apr 13, 2018 9:51 AM EDT

Thanks for hosting and inviting me to the party. You can find my rainbow of words here: http://stepsandstaircases.tumblr.com/post/172893031595/a-rainbow-of-words-another-wonderful-game-by-lea

- Lisa Coughlin

Apr 13, 2018 10:17 AM EDT

Happy birthday, again, dear Lee. You are a true treasure to all of us. Hugs, Heidi

- Heidi Bee Roemer

Apr 13, 2018 10:32 AM EDT

Happy Birthday, Dear One! I'm sharing my birthday greetings to you on Facebook! xo xo xo Robyn, thank you for hosting. Today I have the incredible slam poet Elizabeth Acevedo with a poem, video, and poetry prompt! http://www.nowaterriver.com/community-collection-14-our-younger-selves-with-elizabeth-acevedo/

- Renee LaTulippe

Apr 13, 2018 11:03 AM EDT

Happy Birthday! I just read, BEEN TO YESTERDAYS. . . . I needed, DEAR! Thank you so much! You have brought so much joy to our students--young and old! I can't imagine life without poetry!!

- Shirley Thacker

Apr 13, 2018 11:09 AM EDT

What a thoroughly wonderful birthday celebration! Thank you, Linda, Robyn, and Amy, for organizing this grand party. Happy 80th birthday to Lee! With love and hugs, Rebecca

- Rebecca Davis

Apr 13, 2018 11:11 AM EDT

Thanks for organizing the celebration! I'm giving away a copy of Write a Poem Step by Step every day in April. Today's post (http://www.joannmacken.com/blog.htm?post=1078823) includes a poem about poetic license and more birthday wishes. Enjoy!

- JoAnn Early Macken

Apr 13, 2018 1:54 PM EDT

BTW, Robyn, I love that you go old school and write the round-up. Maybe when I retire, I will feel like I have time to do such. Thank you again. And the red poppy was brought to the library from the student who brought my assistant and me daffodils.

- jone

Apr 13, 2018 2:11 PM EDT

Dearest Lee, one of the best things that ever happened to me was the day Heidi Bee Roemer introduced us at a National Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators Conference in Los Angeles (Thanks again, Heidi! <3). Heidi had described you in glowing terms as a mentor to aspiring poets--but nothing prepared me for the extent of your generosity in helping new poetic voices find a showcase for their work--until I was fortunate to have the chance to work with you myself. How exciting after you began taking an interest in my poetry when I took part in that legendary SCBWI Master Class you taught in LA. The rest is history. What a thrill to open a new Lee Bennett Hopkins anthology and see another of my poems rubbing elbows with poems from writers whose work inspires my own! So, Lee, in celebrating your birthday, a day of gift giving, I celebrate the gift of your friendship, and the huge gift YOU are to the World of Poetry and Literature--via your own work, and the over 200 anthologies you’ve created. Because of you, the world has been enriched by wonderful children’s books filled with fantastic poems, stirring stories, and amazing art, from both established literary and illustrator greats, and talented newcomers whose successful careers began under your wise, witty (and rightfully-demanding) editorial guidance. I feel blessed to be part of your generous gift-giving. Much love to you and Charles on this day of celebration, Dear One. Wishing you the very best of Happy Birthdays!.

- Jude Mandell

Apr 13, 2018 3:07 PM EDT

I'm new to Poetry Friday and did not know about the birthday celebration, but we can never receive too many birthday wishes, so Happy Birthday, Lee! My poem is a golden shovel I wrote Thursday evening after teaching "The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock" in AP Lit. I call it "I Have Seen Myself in Prufrock." I'm near the end of my long teaching career.

- Glenda Funk

Apr 13, 2018 3:09 PM EDT

Ugh! I forgot to leave my link! Sorry about that. Again: Golden Shovel in response to teaching "Prufrock." http://evolvingenglishteacher.blogspot.com/2018/04/i-see-myself-in-prufrock-poemaday-npm.html

- Glenda Funk

Apr 13, 2018 3:54 PM EDT

I too am new to Poetry Friday and did not know it was Lee's birthday. I shall do what I always do when I am late and write a belated birthday greetings poem. In the meantime, here is my offering connected to trying to write a poem a month this April. http://dickenslibrary.blogspot.ca/2018/04/1330-poem-day-challenge.html

- Cheriee Weichel

Apr 13, 2018 8:58 PM EDT

Lee! Happiest of birthdays to you! Nothing like being cheered on as you enter the next year by poets far and wide... and gracious Robyn! It must be a sign of more good things to come your way. Happy Happy Birthday!

- Kami Kinard

Apr 13, 2018 9:54 PM EDT

Happy birthday to Lee. I hope he'd agree that poetry should be a little fun. Today I'm sharing a humorous sonnet that celebrates black pants. Let's be honest, how would we survive without black pants? https://merelydaybyday.blogspot.com/2018/04/poetry-month-dear-black-pants-sonnet-13.html Thanks for hosting! There's nothing like a good party.

- Cathy Mere

Apr 14, 2018 7:10 AM EDT

Dearest Lee, Your love of children, your love of poems, your love of poets and people make you a poetry angel on earth. At NYSRA fall 2010 when I met Pat Lewis I was starving. He assured me my poetry people were out there. At NCTE 2011 I met Rebecca Kai, Janet W. and Sylvia, Amy LV, Elaine M.. I fell in love with their kindness and talent. Heidi told me about Poetry Friday and the Kidlitosphere, I was smitten. I had to play mega-catch up. Had to find and make friends. For me it has truly changed my life and brought me tremendous joy. Your friendship, caring for and encouragement of me (and so many others) ... means more than I can say. And in your case words and actions, your example.... speak as loud as the most perfect and heartfelt poems there are. My tributes are on fb. Sending the biggest birthday love with sincere appreciation. This birthday surprise party came as a surprise to this non-blogger but what happiness! I love them all even more if that's possible: my people, these poets and you, dear dear Lee.

- Janet Clare F.

Apr 06, 2018 7:40 AM EDT

Thanks for sharing this interview, and the trash can Haiku resonates with me this week, too :)

- Kimberly M. Hutmacher

Apr 06, 2018 8:30 AM EDT

Hi, Kimberly - thanks so much for coming by! Those gusty winds disrupt things, but maybe they connect neighbors, too? There's a lot of wonderfulness in that poem.

- Robyn Hood Black

Apr 06, 2018 9:24 AM EDT

What a lovely interview! I admire Amy's commitment to getting this picture book published and enjoyed the sample poems you shared. Thanks to you both!

- jama

Apr 06, 2018 9:27 AM EDT

Glad you enjoyed, Jama. As I mentioned to Amy in an email, it's extraordinary how she helped this book come to be! I'm happy kids will have it to enjoy.

- Robyn Hood Black

Apr 06, 2018 10:26 AM EDT

I think I need this new book by Amy, now! I am reading different books about haiku and trying hard to see if I can do it! This looks wonderful, Robyn and Amy. Thanks!

- Linda Baie

Apr 06, 2018 10:53 AM EDT

Nice interview. I am going to look for this book. Thanks for the recommendation.

- Books4Learning

Apr 06, 2018 11:35 AM EDT

Oh, thank you, Robyn for saying, "I am in the camp of contemporary haiku poets who avoid 5-7-5 construction because it's not an accurate "translation" of Japanese sounds into English syllables and can sometimes make for clunky poems. I also think of haiku in present tense, ..." And thanks for this informative interview with Amy.

- Alice Nine

Apr 06, 2018 1:16 PM EDT

I try and try but Haiku is so difficult that words fall like snow

- Brenda Harsham

Apr 06, 2018 2:30 PM EDT

Thanks for introducing what looks like a delightful new book, Robyn. And congrats on your upcoming teaching gig!

- Buffy Silverman

Apr 06, 2018 6:16 PM EDT

Thanks for this wonderful interview/preview! My copy is due to arrive on my doorstep at any moment. So excited! Next week I'll be introducing haiku to my Kindergarten poets. Stay tuned! -- Christie @ https://wonderingandwondering.wordpress.com/

- Christie Wyman

Apr 06, 2018 7:17 PM EDT

What a wonderful, wonderful post. I did not know about International Haiku Day. I will add that to my calendar. I love how touching the story is for daughter to connect with her mother's voice after her passing. I wish I could find a way to do that. Alas, my mother's art was sewing...and mine words. Maybe I can work at a connection in some way. I am inspired by this project.

- Linda Mitchell

Apr 06, 2018 8:17 PM EDT

I can't wait to get my hands on this! Great review and interview!

- Mary Lee Hahn

Apr 06, 2018 9:16 PM EDT

Thanks for introducing us to this book, and also the backstory (I always love that!). I work in an urban setting, and think my seventh graders would love the trash can haiku. Perfect!

- Carol Wilcox

Apr 06, 2018 11:42 PM EDT

Hi, all - thanks for these wonderful comments! Linda B., you and your granddaughters would enjoy! :0) Thanks for swinging by. Hey, Books4Learning - you're welcome, and I appreciate the visit! Alice, thanks. When I became serious about haiku several years ago, I had to "unlearn" some things I'd been taught; I think that's a common experience. I've enjoyed getting to know Amy through this little feature. Hi, Brenda. I find my best haiku present themselves when I've been regularly reading lots, and lots, of good haiku! Not that I re-write someone else's, but just that the haiku sensibility gets into my bones that way. Happy Poetry Month to you! Thanks, Buffy, all around. I've never taught an OLLI class before; looking forward to it! Oh, terrific, Christie! Can't wait to see/hear about your haiku adventures with kindergarteners! :0) Lovely comments, Linda M., thank you. I am fortunate to still have my mother; she made my wedding dress many moons ago! Amy's curiosity and commitment to make this book happen is such a special thing. Glad you enjoyed, Mary Lee. Older kids will enjoy, too. Hi, Carol - thanks for popping in! I enjoyed a taste of New York city life through these haiku, a different experience than my small Southern town surroundings. The art is perfect for an upbeat, vibrant environment.

- Robyn Hood Black

Apr 07, 2018 5:40 AM EDT

Thank you for giving us another look at H is for Haiku, Robyn! I enjoyed learning more about Amy's dedication to her mother's poetry. I love all of the poems you shared, but I think the final haiku with that "fledgling moment" is my favorite.

- Catherine Flynn

Apr 07, 2018 6:36 AM EDT

How beautiful, these birds with staying power! I know you are right about the 5-7-5 thing, but I think having a form to follow like that is a security blanket for people who think that they can't make poems ... if they follow the form, they have automatically made one. Does that make sense? It's kind of a wee entryway for people who would otherwise not write any. It would be better if it had another name :-)

- Tabatha

Apr 07, 2018 7:10 AM EDT

I loved learning about the backstory to this book and the author's own journey to haiku. There's so much to discover about this form. Perhaps I'll dig in a bit more on April 17!

- Molly Hogan

Apr 07, 2018 8:50 AM EDT

I am glad to learn more about this book.. I enjoyed Sylvia's introduction to it last week and learned even more from your post today. Thank you!

- Kay Jernigan McGriff

Apr 07, 2018 2:15 PM EDT

(Hmmm.... formatting in my replies isn't letting me space... will just do one by one! Thanks for your patience as I still figure out the new techno-changes!)

- Robyn Hood Black

Apr 07, 2018 2:18 PM EDT

Hi, Catherine - thanks for coming over! Glad you enjoyed. (I think that poetic definition would be a little long to be a haiku, but I wanted to keep its formatting from the book. It's just such a rich, lovely image.)

- Robyn Hood Black

Apr 07, 2018 2:24 PM EDT

Thanks for coming be and conversing, Tabatha! I hear you - ;0) - but I would add that students also respond to a less contrived structure for haiku along the lines of, "For a traditional haiku, try writing a three-line-poem with a short line, a longer line, and a short line. Use two different images." If it's modeled for them, they do get the idea, and they spend more time thinking about the actual poem than counting on their fingers.

- Robyn Hood Black

Apr 07, 2018 2:26 PM EDT

Hi, Molly! For such a short form, haiku has depth and more depth. Glad you enjoyed, and Happy Poetry Month AND Haiku Poetry Day (soon, anyway!)

- Robyn Hood Black

Apr 07, 2018 2:27 PM EDT

Kay, thanks! I enjoyed Sylvia's post as well, and the poem and art she highlighted. I just sent my copy of the book off with Morgan to share with her third graders. (I'll replace!)

- Robyn Hood Black

Apr 08, 2018 9:24 AM EDT

I enjoyed this post - thank you!

- Ruth (thereisnosuchthingasagodforsakentown.blogspot.com)

Apr 08, 2018 1:36 PM EDT

What a delight of a post. I must get this book! I love the definition and the capturing that Amy's mother has done here . Thank you, Robyn, for once again deepening my knowledge of haiku. (April 17! ) xx

- Amy Ludwig VanDerwater

Apr 09, 2018 10:32 AM EDT

Thanks for coming by, Ruth - glad you enjoyed!

- Robyn Hood Black

Apr 09, 2018 10:34 AM EDT

Hi, Amy - thanks. I'm looking to Haiku Poetry Day to balance out the fact that April 17 is also TAX day this year... Ha! Thanks so much for hosting/rounding up this week. XO

- Robyn Hood Black

Apr 09, 2018 3:01 PM EDT

I have this book on order and hope to get soon. Looks fascinating. Thank you for the in-depth conversation with Amy.

- jone

Apr 09, 2018 8:02 PM EDT

I'll be anxious to hear what you think, Jone! Thanks for popping over. Glad you enjoyed the interview with Amy.

- Robyn Hood Black

Apr 11, 2018 10:39 PM EDT

Nice interview, Robyn - you covered ground I didn't in my interview with Amy, so between the two of us, I think Amy has answered every question there could be! ;) I think the most significant thing we've learned is the importance Amy's mom placed on observation as well as word choice, to elicit an emotional response. I, too, hope this book stays in the air!

- Matt Forrest Esenwine

Apr 11, 2018 11:03 PM EDT

Thanks for coming over, Matt - I enjoyed your post with Amy and enjoyed learning even more about the book! Her mother knew how to savor a "mundane" moment and reveal its magic, didn't she?

- Robyn Hood Black

Apr 12, 2018 5:22 PM EDT

I'm sure you're right, Robyn! I was actually thinking of adults, people who don't have teachers.

- Tabatha

Apr 19, 2018 5:00 PM EDT

Thanks, everyone, for your kind comments! I'm so grateful. These poems ... a number of which were published in haiku journals ... are from the 1960's, '70's and I think the '80's. Mom's introduction ("Haiku is that fledgling moment...") was first published in a journal called "Wind Chimes" in 1981 (to the best of my knowledge). Haiku in English has been in a state of flux (or evolution) for decades, apparently. From what I have learned, there were debates about form (including syllable count) and content, etc. eons ago. Syd wrote much of her haiku in the "traditional" way (5-7-5), but she also "experimented" with a sparer --indeed, considerably more minimalist -- style, as well. Some of her shorter poems also were published. I don't know how mom felt about the debates around English-language haiku. Decades ago, she tried to talk to me about her work and the haiku world, but alas, I didn't really listen. I think when all was said and done, she did her own thing as a "haijin" (haiku poet). But the haiku community -- and her literary life overall -- was as important to her as breathing. It invigorated her intellect and her very soul. As a teacher, she thought some of her poetry -- her "city haiku" -- would appeal to children. I'm glad I have been able to realize her dream -- and again, I'm so thankful to everyone who has encouraged me on this journey!

- Amy Losak

Apr 27, 2018 1:52 PM EDT

I've missed too many posts this month, but I'm having a delightful time catching up with all the reviews of this lovely book, and interviews with Amy Losak. Thank you!

- Karen Edmisten

Apr 27, 2018 8:50 PM EDT

Karen, you're always welcome, any time, over here! I am WAY behind on all the wonderful April posts myself. Glad they stick around for a bit so we can meander when we can! Thanks so much for coming by.

- Robyn Hood Black

Mar 30, 2018 6:49 AM EDT

Wonder is a builder of ideas! Love this thought and the poem that brought it about. What a wonderful and creative workshop. I wish I could've been there.

- Margaret Simon

Mar 30, 2018 7:22 AM EDT

Robyn, what a great post! I love the poetry your creators were willing to share. Happy Poetry Month to you!

- Linda M.

Mar 30, 2018 8:27 AM EDT

Hi, Margaret - I wish you could have joined us, too! Your creative talents flow in all these directions. :0) Thanks, Linda - it's such a treat to see what treasures folks find and develop. I'm always awed.

- Robyn Hood Black

Mar 30, 2018 6:16 PM EDT

The 3-D fish, the subtle use of color, the wave still visible in the background--a fine job!

- Diane Mayr

Mar 30, 2018 6:52 PM EDT

High praise for Sierra's piece from you, Diane - you are a master of these things! :0)

- Robyn Hood Black

Mar 30, 2018 7:58 PM EDT

Lovely and rich pieces from your workshop Robyn–what fun and wonderful creations you all made!

- Michelle Kogan

Mar 30, 2018 8:02 PM EDT

Hi, Michelle - glad you enjoyed! If we ever end up creating in the same room together, I'll have to make sure to have lots of lovely bright colors on hand.... ;0)

- Robyn Hood Black

Mar 30, 2018 8:06 PM EDT

[Note from Robyn - I'm posting the following comment for Heidi, our Roundup host this week. She encountered issues trying to leave a comment earlier, so sent via email Thanks, Heidi - and... this sounds divine! ;0) ].... I would LOVE to join in a craftyartsylettsy workshop like that, Robyn! I have an idea. Let’s all go somewhere (possibly less expensive than Highlights) and have a writers’ retreat with a making-things workshop each day led by one of our party! Can’t wait…and Sierra’s treatment of her found poetry sheet is elegant and curious. (from Heidi M.)

- (Robyn for Heidi M.)

Mar 31, 2018 2:17 AM EDT

I'll do a workshop with you any day! Looks like a great time.

- Brenda

Mar 31, 2018 9:19 AM EDT

Oh my. That found poem art piece falls squarely into the category of "wish I had come up with that!" It's pretty brilliant. (Sierra has got some serious talent!) So glad your workshop went off well, Robyn. I have no doubt folks will be clamoring for more.

- Michelle Heidenrich Barnes

Mar 31, 2018 10:09 AM EDT

Hi, Brenda! You'd be in the middle of the mix and coming up with wonderful surprises for sure. :0)

- Robyn Hood Black

Mar 31, 2018 10:10 AM EDT

Thank you, Michelle - if you were a wee bit closer you could come lend your own talents to the next one! That Sierra IS something special. You'd love her!

- Robyn Hood Black

Mar 31, 2018 1:00 PM EDT

Lovely! And yes, wonder as building blocks is just perfect. I would have loved to join your workshop with my daughter! (Now if we could just be back on the same continent again!)

- Kay Jernigan McGriff

Mar 31, 2018 4:39 PM EDT

Thanks for popping in, Kay. I'd love to meet up with you all on any continent... Best wishes to your daughter!

- Robyn Hood Black

Mar 31, 2018 6:33 PM EDT

Your workshop sounds like such fun! Like so many others, I wish I could have participated. Thanks for sharing a sampling here!

- Molly Hogan

Mar 31, 2018 10:04 PM EDT

Hi, Molly - thank you! It was a lot of fun. Thanks for coming by and sharing your kind words. I know you'll be FINDING lots of poetry this month!

- Robyn Hood Black

Mar 31, 2018 11:34 PM EDT

Sierra's creation is stunning! And I love the idea of wonder as an idea builder. Thank you for sharing, Robyn!

- Catherine Flynn

Mar 31, 2018 11:37 PM EDT

Thanks for coming over, Catherine! Glad you enjoyed - Sierra is quite the special young woman. :0)

- Robyn Hood Black

Apr 02, 2018 1:44 PM EDT

Thoughtful poem she discovered...and a beautiful rendering!

- Matt Forrest Esenwine

Apr 03, 2018 12:01 AM EDT

Hi, Matt - well said! Thanks for coming by, and hope your Poetry Month is off to a great start!

- Robyn Hood Black

Mar 22, 2018 6:33 PM EDT

Love these! It's like finding flowers on the doorstep on May 1st. Thank you so much for the invitation to play with those old words that needed some time in the sun.

- Linda Mitchell

Mar 22, 2018 6:42 PM EDT

Linda, I love the light you shined on them in your poem here, and with your students and their found poems this week too! "Flowers on the doorstep" is a perfect image. :0) Thanks again!

- Robyn Black

Mar 23, 2018 4:28 AM EDT

These are all wonderful! And as you said, so varied... inspiring! (I printed the passages but never got to them... perhaps this coming week? Maybe?) Thanks also for the azaleas... ours aren't quite there yet. xo

- Irene Latham

Mar 23, 2018 5:33 AM EDT

Lovely to read what others "found" from your brief passages, Robyn! I see thoughts and yearnings for spring!

- Linda Baie

Mar 23, 2018 8:51 AM EDT

These are just delightful! Found poems are really fun. They take us in directions we perhaps would never go on our own!

- Laura Purdie Salas

Mar 23, 2018 1:43 PM EDT

Hi, Irene - Leave or send along a poem, and we'll put it up, too! :0) Glad you enjoyed.

Linda, I'm sure some of our folks are REALLY ready for spring... thanks for coming by!

Hi Laura - thanks so much for hosting today. And congrats again on the new book! Found poems are addictive aren't they? I loved seeing the poems folks in my workshop today came up with - always surprising and delightful.

- Robyn Black

Mar 23, 2018 2:18 PM EDT

Thanks for providing the opportunity to play around with a little creativity, Robyn...it's always fun to see "what lies beneath," so to speak!

- Matt Forrest Esenwine

Mar 23, 2018 2:55 PM EDT

What fun! Thanks for sharing. I do enjoy "finding poems" in text, in art, in word lists.

- Alice Nine

Mar 23, 2018 3:53 PM EDT

Thank you for lending your talents, Matt! This was such fun we'll probably have to do it again....

Hi, Alice - once you start "seeing" them, they appear all over, don't they? Thank you for popping in!

- Robyn Black

Mar 23, 2018 9:22 PM EDT

What fun! Mine is terse in the extreme, yet I hope it comes true soon!

- Brenda

Mar 24, 2018 2:39 AM EDT

Thank you for the azaleas, Robyn! You are so thoughtful! Our snow is almost gone, but the northern hillsides are still covered. These found poems are delightful! I did play with WHAT TO WEAR IN APRIL, but got caught up in the busyness of the week and didn't get back to it. I'll find time to work on it this weekend. Between this post, Linda, and Amy's new book, it seems like we should all just sit down and make poetry! Thanks for the inspiration!

- Catherine Flynn

Mar 24, 2018 10:36 AM EDT

Thank you for inviting us to play along! I love all the different takes from the same text. Hope your workshop went well. It sounds like fun!

- Kay Jernigan McGriff

Mar 24, 2018 4:33 PM EDT

Sorry I missed last week's challenge, Robyn. At least I didn't miss the garden of poems in response! :)

- Michelle Heidenrich Barnes

Mar 24, 2018 6:17 PM EDT

Hi Robyn,

Fun collection of found poems, the different point of view makes them all a bit intriguing.

Your azalea is gorgeous! I just purchased one to bring into my watercolor class for students to paint. Maybe our frigid temps will take a hint from my new plant and start to warm up. Thanks!

- Michelle Kogan

Mar 24, 2018 9:43 PM EDT

Oh, I hope so, Brenda! WARMest wishes to you!!

Catherine, here's hoping spring pops up soon there, too. And if you do circle back to the April poem, send along and I'll share! Sitting down to make poetry with all of you sounds divine... reminds me of our Highlights time! :0)

Thank you, Kay - the workshop was a blast! I'll share some highlights soon. I always love seeing what people come up with.

Hi, Michelle HB - feel free to tackle these (or others) any time, of course - let me share if you do! Glad you enjoyed these poems that sprang up with the new season.

Michelle K, thanks so much for visiting! That azalea will be a welcome subject for painting, for sure. I snapped that picture in a very old section of town the other day, where there's a little park tucked in beside historic homes. So pretty there!

- Robyn Black

Mar 08, 2018 4:53 PM EST

Thank you for this. I want to play with monoku. I am also curious about intentional submitting of my work.

- Jone

Mar 08, 2018 5:58 PM EST

Wow, I've never heard of a monoku before! The poetry world continues to amaze me, I learn something new every day.

- Jane @ Raincity Librarian

Mar 08, 2018 6:11 PM EST

Robyn, I am fascinated with the monoku and do want to ponder this form. Thanks for all of the samples.

- Carol Varsalona

Mar 08, 2018 7:39 PM EST

I am new to the monoku too. I love the idea. I love your juxtapositions.

- Books4Learning

Mar 09, 2018 3:31 AM EST

Hi, Jone! One thing I love about the haiku journals is you can jump into the submission piles anytime - whether you've been published before, like you have - :0) - or you are starting out. (Of course, newcomers should read lots of sample haiku from a particular publication before submitting to it.) I don't always make the deadlines, but I like the seasonal nudges to polish poems and send them out.

Jane, you are always brimming with poetry enthusiasm! I'm sure the learning environment you create in your library sparkles with it.

Hi, Carol - thanks for stopping by. I find them to be little gems, just a few words with facets of reflected light. Glad you enjoyed!

Thanks, Books4Learning - glad to make the "introduction" to these diminutive haiku!

- Robyn Black

Mar 09, 2018 3:52 AM EST

To find those two images hanging around in one's mind is a gift, and you've shared some wonderful ones, Robyn. Ah, love those morning glories! Thanks for the tips, too!

- Linda Baie

Mar 09, 2018 3:58 AM EST

Hi, Dearest Linda - thanks for the kind words. When I first fell into haiku, I felt a connection to my childhood, running loose in the woods unattended with heightened senses, close to both bliss and sadness, alone and not alone.

- Robyn Black

Mar 09, 2018 4:37 AM EST

Thank you for opening my eyes to monoku, Robyn! I've always wondered if there were rules to writing one (or two) lined haiku. Your explanation of two juxtaposed images clears things right up! I particularly like your morning glories and the gorgeous photo to go with. Happy weekend! xo

- Michelle Heidenrich Barnes

Mar 09, 2018 4:49 AM EST

I’ve learned something new today! Thank you for explaining the monoku. Your morning glory piece is beautiful and inspires me to try my hand. Thank you, Robyn.

- Kitty Kaczmarek

Mar 09, 2018 4:53 AM EST

Hi, Michelle - thanks so much for hosting us all today, and conjuring up such a fulsome post to boot! Glad you enjoyed this little side trip to stop and smell the morning glories/monoku. ;0)

Kitty, so wonderful to have you visit! Thanks for your kind words, and happy creating. I hope we cross real paths again one of these days.

- Robyn Black

Mar 09, 2018 6:25 AM EST

Is this like Wheel of Fortune when they combine two phrases?
Is there a length limit?

- Donna JT Smith

Mar 09, 2018 6:58 AM EST

I did not know about monoku! Yours are splendid!! Congrats on another acceptance. :)

- jama

Mar 09, 2018 7:09 AM EST

I like monoku. I'd love to see a collection or anthology of them.

- Brenda

Mar 09, 2018 7:11 AM EST

I love Modern Haiku-- congrats on your acceptances! I am a particular fan of your leaf blower poem. Thanks so much for sharing!

- Sarah Grace Tuttle

Mar 09, 2018 7:25 AM EST

Hi, Donna - haven't watched Wheel of Fortune in a long time, but I would doubt it! ;0) There is not technically a length 'limit', but a one-line haiku could get clunky quickly. If it seems too long, it probably needs to be the conventional two phrases hinged together in three lines. Thanks for stopping in!

Thanks, Jama - much appreciated!

Hi, Brenda - I've had the same thought. ;0) Thanks.

Sarah Grace, many thanks! :0) I've loved having poems in MH over the years. Glad you enjoyed the leaf blowers. We moved to our little coastal SC town four years ago and have had two hurricanes in that time!

- Robyn Black

Mar 09, 2018 7:48 AM EST

I loved reading about the monoku. The ones you shared are so good. I'm going to see if I can come up with one, but like good haiku, I'm sure it is harder than it looks. xo

- Linda Kulp Trout

Mar 09, 2018 7:52 AM EST

Thank you, Linda - have fun. And check out sites like The Haiku Foundation and HSA's Frogpond page and such for inspiration! :0)

- Robyn Black

Mar 09, 2018 1:24 PM EST

I'm so excited to mess about with some monoku. And I'm hugely jealous that haiku plops down in your brain mostly intact. Mine often arrives with wrangling to be done. Jealous! :-) Christie @ https://wonderingandwondering.wordpress.com/

- Christie Wyman

Mar 09, 2018 1:30 PM EST

"drifting down like the surprise of a feather"--love that image! Monoku is a new form to me and quite intriguing. Thanks for sharing such wonderful examples and for sharing some resources as well.

- Molly Hogan

Mar 09, 2018 2:51 PM EST

I've heard of monoku, but for some reason I don't recall ever reading any until now - so thank you for sharing these! I ca see what you mean about the impact they can have, with such power and imagery in so few words.

- Matt Forrest Esenwine

Mar 09, 2018 4:37 PM EST

Hi, Christie - thanks, and, there is MUCH wrangling to be done with "regular" haiku on my end - ha! So many drafts sometimes. ;0) Happy creating!

Glad you enjoyed, Molly - & thanks for the kind thoughts!

Hey, Matt - thanks for coming by. Glad to share these with you!

- Robyn Black

Mar 09, 2018 4:47 PM EST

Love this post, Robyn - and can so relate to your feelings about haiku and children's books. There is something breathless-special about pared back words. Also interesting reading your process with the monoku. Congrats on the acceptances - and publication!

- Kathryn Apel

Mar 10, 2018 1:12 AM EST

Congratulations, Robyn! Thanks for sharing these with us. Like the others, monoku is new to me. Seems even more challenging than haiku. Looking forward to seeing more!

- Tabatha

Mar 10, 2018 2:01 AM EST

I'm like Jone -- in a little bit of awe of your intentional submission schedule. Dang day job. Oh, well. Something to aspire to in a few years!

- Mary Lee Hahn

Mar 10, 2018 3:30 AM EST

Hi there, Kat - Thanks. I think I'm so drawn to crisp, spare poems and books because the rest of my life is often so piled up and cluttered, even if it's all good, still a bit teetery! ;0)

Tabatha, glad you joined the conversation; thanks! I hope to keep them coming.

Hi, Mary Lee - I'm in awe of all you teachers juggle. And you produce publishable poetry while doing it! Not to mention herding the PF host crowd....

- Robyn Black

Mar 10, 2018 5:10 AM EST

I like the term monoku better than the other I've heard, "monostich." I can't even figure out how to say monostich. Is it stick or stitch? You've written eloquently about these terse forms--thanks for spreading the word.

- Diane Mayr

Mar 10, 2018 12:05 PM EST

I love one line haiku. I also find them super-hard to write! I don't think I've written a successful one yet. Yours are wonderful!

- Liz

Mar 10, 2018 1:51 PM EST

Hi, Diane - I've read that term "monostitch" too - but I agree - the 'ku seems easier to say and understand! ;0) Thanks!

Liz, thank you, my friend! Your haiku are gorgeous, whatever the length.

- Robyn Black

Mar 10, 2018 4:00 PM EST

The best line of this post? "In one of the acceptances". I love seeing that you have acceptances rolling in. Never have I heard of a monoku....but how intriguing. I need to try this! It's always fun learning with you.

- Linda Mitchell

Mar 11, 2018 4:46 AM EDT

I'm inspired...

daffodil birthday snow on the way

- Heidi Mordhorst

Mar 11, 2018 10:22 AM EDT

Congrats on the publications. Monoku is new to me. I enjoy short form poetry, but it so hard to do well. You make it look effortless!

- Rebecca Herzog

Mar 11, 2018 1:26 PM EDT

Thanks, Linda - I've been having haiku published in the journals since about 2011. I still get rejections, so I never take it for granted! But it's always a good challenge to polish up work. I appreciate the kind words!

Heidi, you always inspire ME! Thanks for sharing. (And I hope not TOO much snow this coming week...)

That is too kind, Rebecca. Thank you. When I first seriously submitted back in 2010-ish, after what I thought was sufficient study and practice, I got "nice" (as in, "close...") rejections. I hunkered down for a good bit of the next year to read more and more, and hone craft, and then I started getting poems accepted. As you likely know, these short forms are addictive! :0)

- Robyn Black

Mar 11, 2018 2:45 PM EDT

Congratulations on your acceptances! Monoku is not a form I'm familiar with. Yours are lovely. As Linda mentioned, I especially love the morning glories on this chilly winter day. Thank you for sharing a hint of spring!

- Catherine Flynn

Mar 11, 2018 7:47 PM EDT

Thanks, Catherine - I hope you all don't get pummeled by more winter weather this week. Just rainy on this late Sunday night down here! Sending WARM wishes - :0)

- Robyn Black

Mar 12, 2018 6:41 PM EDT

Monoku, I like yours and this form, thanks for sharing it with us Robyn! Lovely morning glories too, I look forward to their opening this coming season.

- Michelle Kogan

Mar 13, 2018 10:02 AM EDT

Thanks, Michelle, for all. Lots of morning glories around us in Beaufort - love them! :0)

- Robyn Black

Feb 22, 2018 6:24 PM EST

I could see why this poem resonated given the recent tragedy in Florida. While I am miles and miles away from the US, I feel the words ring through.

- Iphigene (GatheringBooks)

Feb 22, 2018 10:36 PM EST

Funny, Robyn, I was just reading Amy Lowell poems Thursday and saving them for myself. "“We start each day at the cemetery" is just about as tragic a sentence as I can think of. xo

- Tabatha

Feb 23, 2018 2:12 AM EST

Amy Lowell's poem does seem to speak to these times. How I hope there is " a new birth which is to-morrow." Thanks for sharing this poem and congrats to Catherine on the book win!

- Molly Hogan

Feb 23, 2018 3:00 AM EST

This vast, confused beauty, indeed.

- Liz Steinglass

Feb 23, 2018 3:11 AM EST

Hi, Iphigene - Thanks so much for coming by and for your thoughts from many time zones away.

Tabatha, we do seem to have similar tastes! And, hearing that sentence during the interview was immediately heartbreaking.

Hi, Molly - Amen & I hope so too. (& I'm thrilled Catherine will be able to share the book with her students!)

Liz - that image seemed so timely to me. Thank you for hosting us all this week!

- Robyn Black

Feb 23, 2018 4:27 AM EST

It gives me shivers to read these words written so long ago, and now relevant in this 21st century. How did she know? Have we always been a "vast, confused beauty"? I am hopeful for less. Thank you, Robyn, for sharing.

- Linda Baie

Feb 23, 2018 4:31 AM EST

Linda, thanks for joining the conversation. Perhaps Amy Lowell's own voice is one of the "unquenchable" ones, a century later.

- Robyn Black

Feb 23, 2018 7:40 AM EST

I've been watching and listening to Fred G. doing many interviews. Can't imagine having the wherewithal to do everything he's doing. So heartbreaking. I'm proud of and in awe of the students who are speaking out for change. Amy Lowell's words do resonate; thanks for sharing the excerpt.

- jama

Feb 23, 2018 9:16 AM EST

Thank you for sharing this poem. Amy Lowell does seem as if she is speaking to us today. And I am inspired by the strength and courage of those students who are standing up and speaking out, demanding that we confront the problem of gun violence and take action. They give me hope for our future, and I stand with them.

- Kay Jernigan McGriff

Feb 23, 2018 9:18 AM EST

Hi, Jama - "Wherewithal" is the right word - I can't imagine the stress those families are under, and it's incredible the way they are able to speak out from the depths of grief. Thanks for coming by & sharing today.

Kay, I appreciate your taking the time to read a heavy post this week. Beautifully said - I hope there are countless folks standing with these brave students and families.

- Robyn Black

Feb 23, 2018 4:38 PM EST

"This is America, the vast, confused beauty" and "We start each day at the cemetery" hit me as I read through this post, Robyn. The youth of today must let their voices rise to correct the ills we see. Perhaps, their voices will bend the ears of Congress. Thanks for sharing these.

- Carol Varsalona

Feb 23, 2018 4:51 PM EST

Thank you for coming by, Carol. I hope we can help those voices be heard, voices that shouldn't have to worry about such horrific tragedies.

- Robyn Black

Feb 24, 2018 4:05 AM EST

Oh my goodness..."This is the music of the Trumpeters of the Almighty/
Weeping for a lost estate,/Sounding to a new birth which is to-morrow." How I hear the powerful voices of those brave Parkland survivors as they beg, plead for long overdue change! On a happier note, WOO HOO to Catherine for winning the book! :-) Christie @ https://wonderingandwondering.wordpress.com/

- Christie Wyman

Feb 24, 2018 4:21 AM EST

Oh my, the raw beauty of these words. They touch me. Thank you

- Linda M.

Feb 24, 2018 4:55 AM EST

Hi, Christie - thanks for visiting. I'm grateful so many want to amplify those voices crying out - and I hope Congress will listen this time. (And, I'm happy for Catherine, too! :0) )

You're welcome, Linda - they went straight to my heart this wekk; glad they resonated with you as well.

- Robyn Black

Feb 24, 2018 6:16 AM EST

It's astounding how true Lowell's portrayal remains today. I love the voices that have "neither end or beginning;/ They are inter-riven as the colours of the sky..." They are making themselves be heard this week! Thank you for including all the links, too. And thank you so much for the book! I'm thrilled!

- Catherine Flynn

Feb 24, 2018 7:07 AM EST

"There are words in the veins of this creature" and we must learn to bleed.

- Diane Mayr

Feb 24, 2018 7:09 AM EST

Thanks for coming by, Diane. "...the voices of the furious dead who never die,/Furious with love and life, unquenchable,...."

- Robyn Black

Feb 25, 2018 12:22 AM EST

It's good to see the courage of these young people, but heartbreaking that it's under these circumstances. Thank you for the poem.

- Ruth (thereisnosuchthingasagodforsakentown.blogspot.com)

Feb 25, 2018 5:24 AM EST

Thanks for coming by, Ruth. Really too heartbreaking for words.

- Robyn Black

Feb 25, 2018 12:30 PM EST

Robyn--so surprisingly fitting, so astute of you to notice, so heartbreakingly astounding to see our sons and daughters rise: right time right place FINALLY for action to stick: "the invincible pith and marrow of the world," "the furious dead who never die."

- Heidi Mordhorst

Feb 25, 2018 1:57 PM EST

Heidi, thanks for your thoughtful words and the ones you highlight from Lowell's poem. I do hope, FINALLY, some common sense will prevail.

- Robyn Black

Feb 27, 2018 11:03 AM EST

So many good images in that poem, such truth, still relevant today. This phrase: "tumultuous stillness" describes the way I feel reading news on an internet feed.

- Brenda

Feb 27, 2018 3:46 PM EST

Hi, Brenda - thanks so much for coming by. "Tumultuous stillness" is an apt description indeed.

- Robyn Black

Mar 01, 2018 12:21 PM EST

These students voices are the future-–I'm so moved by their words and actions! Thanks for the reflective poem by Amy Lowell, unfortunately or vice-versa it's timeless.

- Michelle Kogan

Mar 01, 2018 2:30 PM EST

Hi, Michelle - the poise and clarity of communication from those students is just stunning. I wish for them it never had to come out in this way... They should be planning for prom and college, not grieving on such a massive scale. Thanks for coming by.

- Robyn Black

Feb 08, 2018 3:03 PM EST

Sounds like a great anthology, Robyn. Congratulations on being part of it. And I always love learning more about lee and his way of working.

- Sally Murphy

Feb 08, 2018 3:47 PM EST

I'm excited to read Lee's new book, Robyn. When I read that librarian poem, I can't help but picture my good friend Matthew Winner, who is a librarian in one of our local schools. Congratulations, Lee!

- Laura Shovan

Feb 08, 2018 4:30 PM EST

Thanks, Sally - and thank you for hosting this week. (& I always learn something new when I feature Lee!)

Laura, thanks for coming by. Lee's poem reminded me of a media specialist I met during a school visit a few months ago. He sure loved the students, and they loved him.

- Robyn Hood Black

Feb 08, 2018 6:37 PM EST

Hurray - that librarian poem in particular warms my heart! <3

- Jane @ Raincity Librarian

Feb 08, 2018 7:07 PM EST

There is a place in students' hearts for all the people in their schools. We had one custodian for years named Larry who gave such good care to all. What a lovely book that celebrates everyone! Librarians and lunch ladies add to the community and learning, too. I love the poems you shared. Congrats on your poem, Robyn & thanks for this latest anthology, Lee. Woo hoo! More poetry!

- Linda Baie

Feb 09, 2018 4:12 AM EST

Jane, As it should! :0) Who knows how many doors you've opened? Thanks for popping in.

Beautifully said, Linda - this book reminds me of the selfless grown ups who made school special back in my day, and in my kids' school years, too. I can't wait to share it with lots of folks, especially (teacher-daughter) Morgan!

- Robyn Black

Feb 09, 2018 5:24 AM EST

Lovely to see this book promoted! School people are incredibly important to kids. My 6th grade teacher told me I should be a writer. Lee, Fair Lawn?! I'm from Bergen County too! Thanks for posting, Robyn!

- B.J. Lee

Feb 09, 2018 5:52 AM EST

Wowsa! This is an exciting post! Can I jump up and down with you? Congratulations--I love your Lunch Lady poem. They were always some of my favorite people. In the school I taught at for 15 years, they took care of many students, often without recognition for all the work they did. The book looks like a fabulous collection.

- Kay Jernigan McGriff

Feb 09, 2018 6:33 AM EST

What a beautiful celebration of this new book and of all of the dedicated, hardworking, loving adults who make safe and inspiring spaces for children each day. Thank you for this peek into Lee's mind on this one - I love the idea of an assembly celebrating so many who give. And your lunch lady was my lunch lady way back when I was a girl. Big hugs, Robyn. xxxx

- Amy Ludwig VanDerwater

Feb 09, 2018 7:45 AM EST

I can't wait to read this lovely book. As a retired teacher, a book about school people is especially dear to my heart. Thanks for the interview and the sneak peek!

- Linda Kulp Trout

Feb 09, 2018 8:04 AM EST

Can't wait to read this one. Enjoyed hearing from Lee. Thanks so much to both of you (love both poems you shared today, too). :)

- jama

Feb 09, 2018 8:24 AM EST

I enjoyed the interview. His anthologies are always powerful.

- Brenda

Feb 09, 2018 10:08 AM EST

Thanks for coming by, B. J.! And - what a small world - :0)

Kay, YAY - A jumping partner. Thank you! There are some wonderful folks behind those serving lines.

Amy, honored to share these pages with you! Glad you have fond memories of your own lunch lady. I look forward to reading your "Nurse" poem - I've seen some of the book, but not all yet. Can't wait to get my copy! (Copies, really... I ordered some to share, too.) ;0)

Hi, Linda - glad you enjoyed. And I'm sure you DO appreciate, having poured out lots of TLC in the school halls yourself.

Jama, happy you joined the party! And thanks for the kind words. :0)

Hi, Brenda - yes, they are. Thanks for swinging by today!

- Robyn Black

Feb 09, 2018 10:39 AM EST

I love Lee and all his anthologies. I really look forward to reading this one and connecting with some memories of my own. And, Robyn, I used to cover the school lunch market as part of my foodservice journalism career. I love your lunch lady poem!

- Stephanie Salkin

Feb 09, 2018 11:28 AM EST

I love his collections of poetry. I have reviewed several, but this one is new to me. Thanks for recommending it. I will add it to my list.

- Books4Learning

Feb 09, 2018 11:48 AM EST

AGAIN and AGAIN, thank you Robyn for this post, for your enthusiasm for poetry, for your wondrous, sensitive look at a "Lunch Lady". Thanks too, for all the comments on SCHOOL PEOPLE, a delightful book to compile.

- LEE BENNETT HOPKINS

Feb 09, 2018 1:35 PM EST

Robyn! Thank you so much for sharing the amazing Lee Bennett Hopkins with us as well as some behind the scenes from School People. Since I am a school person.....I love the entire concept of this book. I love that you think of Lee's books with a distinct personality. You give me ideas......

- Linda Mitchell

Feb 09, 2018 2:07 PM EST

Congratulations on being part of this fabulous anthology. You can be sure it will be in my class library!

- Mary Lee Hahn

Feb 09, 2018 6:56 PM EST

Hey there, Stef - Ohhh, I'd forgotten about your "beat" during your career. Glad this poem connects! Thanks for visiting. :0)

Books4Learning, great! Thanks for coming by. This one is brand new; I can't wait to get my own copies.

Dearest Lee, thank YOU - well, for being you. And for helping my poem come to life, with, um, multiple (?!)edits... ;0) This book is going to touch so many folks, and be embraced by young students figuring out who's who at school.

Linda, oh - your ideas are always awesome! How many more will you come up with AFTER you read it? :0)

Terrific, Mary Lee! And thanks so much. Maybe your students will end up writing their own "school people" poems....

- Robyn Black

Feb 09, 2018 7:14 PM EST

What a great post! Thanks so much for sharing. This interview was so much fun to read, and I loved your lunch lady poem. Serving lunch to a school full of kids is hard work!

- Sarah Grace Tuttle

Feb 10, 2018 2:08 AM EST

This anthology looks like such a gem! Thanks for sharing it here. I can't wait to linger in its pages.

- Molly Hogan

Feb 10, 2018 3:26 AM EST

This looks so fun, Robyn. I bet my Kindergarten poets would love this collection! -- Christie @ https://wonderingandwondering.wordpress.com/

- Christie Wyman

Feb 10, 2018 3:34 AM EST

Student will love reading such fabulous poems about a place they know so well. Poems are about connecting, relating, seeing yourself there. I'm excited for you and Amy and all the others included in this collection.

- Margaret Simon

Feb 10, 2018 5:13 AM EST

Hi, Sarah Grace - thank you for joining us! My financial aid job in college for four years (plus elsewhere on weekends sometimes) was in the cafeteria - definitely hard work, and all we had to do was clock in. ;0)

Molly, you're welcome, and I am looking forward to lingering in it, too! :0)

Hi, Christie - I think they will love it, too. Older kids will recognize folks they know, and these poems will help younger ones get to know the faces they see each day. :0)

So well put, Margaret - and thanks for the kind wishes!

- Robyn Black

Feb 10, 2018 11:36 AM EST

Beautiful presentation of the book, Robyn. Your "Lunch Room Lady" poem is an exquisite tribute to those who nourish the tummies (and souls) of our children. Their example, like all dedicated educators, is the epitome of how hard work and a warm smile keep us going and growing during our most formative and impressionable years. Thank you for this memorable ode. It's an honor to be one of your poet-folk friends on this journey.

- Charles Ghigna - Father Goose®

Feb 10, 2018 11:48 AM EST

Lovely interview, Lee and Robyn, and lovely poems! I'm so happy to have a poem in this book too, and to share pages with so many wonderful people. Yay! Thank you for this fabulous write-up.

(Obviously, don't put me in the book drawing.)

- Renee LaTulippe

Feb 10, 2018 12:41 PM EST

Congratulations on the inclusion of your poem in this anthology! I remember how hard lunch ladies work and the smile they always have for each student. "Here you go, Honey." Love the line in The Librarian about opening the single door to many pathways. I also was a 6th grade teacher once, so am happy to learn I have one thing in common with J. Patrick Lewis! My inspirational teacher was Mr. Farnsworth, 10th grade English. He shared his passion for literature and instilled a thirst for good literature in me.

- Joyce Ray

Feb 10, 2018 4:30 PM EST

It was so exciting to get a preview of this wonderful anthology at Highlights last Fall. Having been an elementary teacher for 33 years, every role is so crucial and the poems reflect that love! Thanks to all who contributed.

- Vicki Wilke

Feb 10, 2018 4:45 PM EST

Hi Charles - It's an honor to be amongst YOUR folk!! Thanks for the kind comments and for all you do, in and out of books, for poetry.

Renee! So excited about this one. Delighted to share pages with you and everyone else! Thanks for coming by. :0)

Hi, Joyce - I was just on my way to your place! Thank you for stopping in and sharing your thoughts and experiences, too. I'm thankful Mr. Farnsworth was in your life. I'll always cherish my own Mrs. Jarvis - she encouraged me so.

Vicki, thanks for visiting! Glad you got a preview of the book. I'm sure you especially appreciate the folks highlighted in these poems, and I'm sure your students appreciated you! :0)

- Robyn Hood Black

Feb 11, 2018 1:09 AM EST

Congratulations, Robyn, for having a poem in this fun collection. I love that it celebrates some of the unsung heroes of our schools. Can't wait to share it with kids!

- Catherine @ Reading to the Core

Feb 11, 2018 1:48 AM EST

Sounds like a wonderful book! Thanks for telling us about it!

- Ruth (thereisnosuchthingasagodforsakentown.blogspot.com)

Feb 11, 2018 4:28 AM EST

I love that Lee wrote the librarian poem himself, since that is truly what he his, isn't he? The way he reaches out to readers with his library of books and his wealth of knowledge, the way he connects with children, parents, teachers, and all of his readers, in an individual, hands-on way. Congratulations, Robyn, on your touching and real portrait of the lunch lady, and to all the poets in SCHOOL PEOPLE. Hooray for all of us who get to enjoy another wonderful LBH collection!

- Michelle Heidenrich Barnes

Feb 11, 2018 6:31 AM EST

Thanks for sharing this interview with Lee - one always receives an education when speaking to him. I love his "Librarian" taking us to new places, and your Lunch Lady offers a nice peek at what goes on behind the scenes, which children often do not think about. And congrats again on being in the book!

- Matt Forrest Esenwine

Feb 11, 2018 12:03 PM EST

Hi, Catherine - I hope they'll love it! Maybe they can think of all kinds of unsung heroes who could use a poem written about them... :0)

Ruth, thanks for coming by! I think this one will be loved by kids and appreciated by adults.

Michelle, thanks for all those thoughtful comments. Spot-on re. Lee and his reach, all the connections his works foster....

Congrats to you, too, Matt - can't wait to see your poem when I get my hands on a real, live copy! Appreciate your stopping by.

- Robyn Black

Feb 11, 2018 12:21 PM EST

Fantastic news that this book has come to be, and congratulations to you, to Lee, to all the contributors. It is kind of funny that this theme hasn't been tackled before in just this way. Can't wait to get it into my classroom!

- Heidi Mordhorst

Feb 11, 2018 3:56 PM EST

Hey there, Heidi! I love how Lee put it... 'decades later/such an "obvious" topic' - and yet... Well, I'm glad it came to be in just this way, too! Thanks for popping in.

- Robyn Black

Feb 11, 2018 4:15 PM EST

(sharing Michele's comment which ended up under the wrong blog post - RHB)

What a thrill to be part of this collection! Thank you for the lovely interview, Robyn and Lee. I appreciate this collection so much because it celebrates children’s earliest role models. I can’t wait to read it and share it with my young friends!

- Michele Krueger

Hi, Michele - it will be treasured for sure! Congrats to you and thanks for coming by. :0)

- Robyn Black

Feb 01, 2018 4:50 PM EST

Alas I didn't get a chance to see the Blue Blood Moon! Congratulations on all those published poems, that's very exciting.

- Jane @ Raincity Librarian

Feb 01, 2018 5:48 PM EST

I love your second haiku, though sad! So much in so little.

- Donna Smith

Feb 01, 2018 6:20 PM EST

Thanks, Jane! Well, I bet the moon saw you anyway... ;0)

Hi, Donna - thanks so much for hosting & for the kind words. That one was written for my sweet, very old office kitty we lost last spring, and then we lost our other cat (not quite as old) in December. 2017 was a hard year re. kitties.

- Robyn Black

Feb 02, 2018 1:53 AM EST

These are beautiful, Robyn. Haiku can do so much with so few words. I have a blog post about them too.

- Liz Steinglass

Feb 02, 2018 3:15 AM EST

Thanks, Liz - And, yay! I look forward to hopping over to your post.

- Robyn Hood Black

Feb 02, 2018 3:16 AM EST

Congrats for these 3 haiku published, Robyn. Each shows a scene out of our lives. My son's family have 2 new dogs now, but their earlier one, all large Bernese Mountain dogs left his own mark that after his last visit I kept sweeping another bit of "him" reminding me of what a sweet thing he was. Your middle haiku brought that whole memory back. I did see the eclipse, very early, but it was nice. Love hearing about your owls!

- Linda Baie

Feb 02, 2018 4:16 AM EST

Hi, Linda - Thanks for sharing that story. Our animals have always been dear, dear members of the family. We still have our spunky, lovable Chihuahua, Rita - amazing how such a tiny little thing can still shed! She's probably the size of one of your son's dog's muzzles. ;0) Glad you got to see the eclipse!

- Robyn Hood Black

Feb 02, 2018 5:24 AM EST

These are beautiful. Congratulations on your publishing. Longest Day gave word to the sorrow in my heart for a few of my friends right now.

- Tanya

Feb 02, 2018 5:52 AM EST

Your first haiku hit me hard today. I just lost my aunt this week after a 3 year struggle... which is actually saying a lot, considering when she was first diagnosed they thought it would be a matter of months, not years. And she didn't languish either, she lived at home, comfortably, for most of those three years. Couldn't ask for better. I think about you often, Robyn. <3

- Michelle Heidenrich Barnes

Feb 02, 2018 6:11 AM EST

I did not get to celebrate the moon that night either--too many clouds here, but I did enjoy it on nights before and after even if they weren't special lunar events. Congrats on your haiku publications!

- Kay Jernigan McGriff

Feb 02, 2018 6:42 AM EST

Love these haiku, Robyn. All suggest poignant stories. You've beautifully captured the essence. Congrats on the publications! No eclipse visible here, just a cloud-covered moon.

- jama

Feb 02, 2018 12:19 PM EST

Yes, these haiku suggest such deep feeling. So much narrative, tucked inside a wee envelope. The second one got me, Robyn. xo

- Tabatha

Feb 02, 2018 2:49 PM EST

These are beautiful, Robyn. They all tug at my heart, especially those last traces of fur. Congratulations on your publications!

- Catherine @ Reading to the Core

Feb 02, 2018 4:35 PM EST

Thanks for coming by, Tanya, and for your beautiful comment. {Prayers and light for the friends you mentioned.} XO

Oh, Michelle, I'm so sorry for your loss. Thanks for sharing, and I'm glad there is some comfort in they way your aunt was able to live the last part of her life. I think of you often, too, my friend. {{hugs}}

Thanks, Kay - this was a lovely moon, even when not on its main stage! :0)

Hi, Jama - thank you for the kind words. We had some fun spooky clouds cross the moon on Tuesday night - I always love that.

Tabatha, that's a wonderful description of haiku! And I know your animals are family, too. XO

Hi, Catherine - thank you. That particular kitty, May, had the softest fur of any cat whose ever owned us.

- Robyn Black

Feb 02, 2018 8:36 PM EST

Congratulations, dearest Queen of Haiku - so stark and moving, those words.

- Myra from GatheringBooks

Feb 03, 2018 1:37 AM EST

I love these haiku. The second is my favorite. After a loss, those unexpected reminders bring everything back.

- Ruth (thereisnosuchthingasagodforsakentown.blogspot.com)

Feb 03, 2018 2:34 AM EST

Gosh, thank you for these delicate yet potent Haiku.
They are each of them specific to us, also, especially the longest day . . .

We always love moon gazing, but especially this week.

And applause for so many poem publications. I see more to follow in 2018.

xox

- Bookseedstudio

Feb 03, 2018 5:23 AM EST

Thank you, dear Myra! For me, haiku is a safe place for the starkness.

Ruth, thanks for coming by. It's that "unexpected" element that is so strong in grief, sometimes, isn't it?

Hi, Jan - thanks for the kind words; I'm glad these spoke to you. [I try to keep submissions/publications rolling throughout each year. Sometimes I miss deadlines, and sometimes I still get the inevitable rejections, but persistence is always the key, no?]

- Robyn Hood Black

Feb 03, 2018 10:16 AM EST

I admire your persistence, but even more so, your willingness to even take up the submission process. You go, Girl! Ya done good.

- Diane Mayr

Feb 03, 2018 10:42 AM EST

Ha! Thank you, Diane. ;0)

- Robyn Black

Feb 03, 2018 11:04 AM EST

Wonderful haiku, Robyn. Many congrats on publication. I always love what I learn here.

- Linda Mitchell

Feb 03, 2018 11:11 AM EST

Congratulations, Robyn. I am drawn to the 2nd haiku. It is sad but a wonderful remembrance.

- Carol Varsalona

Feb 04, 2018 4:56 AM EST

Oh, Linda - what a wonderful thing to say. Thanks for coming by.

Carol, thank you - that particular kitty of the poem was one of the sweetest (& softest) ever.

- Robyn Hood Black

Feb 04, 2018 10:25 AM EST

Somber haiku this time around, but sometimes that's where life leads us. Congratulations on your journal acceptances! The moon was enormous and stunning! -- Christie @ https://wonderingandwondering.wordpress.com/

- Christie Wyman

Feb 04, 2018 3:39 PM EST

Love your haiku.

- Brenda

Feb 05, 2018 5:20 AM EST

Hi, Christie - Haiku and wabi/sabi definitely go together. Thanks so much!

Thank you, Brenda. :0)

- Robyn Black