An ancient form of Japanese poetry, haiku remains tremendously popular. In its original form, Haiku is measured in sounds or breaths. It is commonly taught in English using three lines with a 5-7-5 syllable structure. In actuality, many of the original poems contain fewer syllables. Full of evocative, natural imagery and keen observations, poems by Haiku masters such as Basho and Issa continue to be relevant today. The books highlighted below introduce readers to the beauty of these poems. Works of the great masters and more modern poets are shared accompanied by stunning illustrations, inspiring readers of all ages to try their hand at this art form.
My First Book of Haiku Poems
by Esperanza Ramirez-Christensen (Author), Tracy Gallup (Illustrator)
Review: This award-winning book provides a wonderful introduction to haiku. It features numerous haiku masters both old and new such as Shiki, Gomei and Seishi. Each poem is presented using a double-page spread. On one side we find the haiku translated into English along with its original Japanese form. Provocations at the foot of the page, ask readers to think more deeply about the poem or reflect on its contents. On the opposite page, striking watercolour illustrations represent the theme of the poem. Informative end notes provide a brief look at each of the poets represented, whilst messages from the translator, Esperanza Ramirez-Christensen, and artist, Tracy Gallup, provide additional insights into haiku and their connection with this poetic form. A joy to look at and read, this book is a must when delving into haiku.
Suggested Reading Age: 5 to 9 years old.
Cool Melons Turn To Frogs: The Life And Poems of Issa
by Matthew Gollub (Author), Kazuko G. Stone (Illustrator)
Review: This beautiful book tells the story of Issa’s life. It cleverly intertwines a selection of his poems whilst telling his story. As we learn about Issa, carefully selected haiku help to illustrate significant moments or observations. The illustrations bring the poems to life, showing scenes from Issa’s childhood and his surrounding environment. Each haiku is translated into English with the original Japanese text written in a cursive style of calligraphy. This serves to complement Kazuko G. Stone’s appealing watercolour illustrations. A super introduction to Issa, this is an engaging way to learn about a poet whilst enjoying their writing at the same time.
Suggested Reading Age: 8 to 11 years old.
Origami, Poems and Pictures
by The British Museum
Review: A terrific concept, this book successfully marries poetry, art and creativity. It mostly features animal haikus, such as poems about the grasshopper, fish and crane, coupled with objects like boats and a fan. Each poem is accompanied by a work of origami together with detailed instructions as to how to make it. In addition, a piece of Japanese artwork features on the page opposite the text. The book begins by introducing each of these elements (haiku, origami and pictures) to readers. An index at the back compiles all of the paintings, together with details about the artist and when they were created. The book ends with 50 sheets of beautifully printed origami paper for readers to make the pieces found inside. Origami, Poems and Pictures has wide-ranging appeal and would make a wonderful present for poetry lovers, crafters and those who enjoy Japanese art.
Suggested Reading Age: 8-year-olds to early teens.
Write Your Own Haiku For Kids
by Patricia Donegan
Review: Write Your Own Haiku For Kids is a wonderfully accessible book that helps young poets develop their haiku writing skills. Aimed at children, this is also suitable for adults learning to write haiku or to support their students or children when doing so. Having first introduced the world of haiku to readers, Patricia Donegan highlights the seven keys to writing haiku: form, images, kigo (season word), here and now, feeling, surprise, and compassion. Readers then use these keys to help them complete a series of projects, ranging from writing their first haiku to creating a haiga (drawing and haiku). Full of tips and with numerous examples from the Japanese masters to foreign writers of haiku to poems written by children, this is a super tool to support learners.
Suggested Reading Age: 8 to 12 years old. I believe this would be most appealing to the upper end of this age bracket and above.
Haiku: Japanese Art And Poetry
by Judith Patt (Author), Barry Till (Author), Michiko Warkentyne (Author)
Review: Stunningly presented, this book would make a perfect gift for lovers of haiku and/or Japanese art. Divided into the four seasons, spring, summer, autumn and winter, readers encounter works by a selection of masters coupled with glorious artwork. In all, 35 poems are compellingly presented. Japanese calligraphy accompanies each English translation with original artwork, including prints and woodcuts, carefully selected to round off the experience. An informative introduction explains the genre and its evolution and also highlights the challenging nature of translating haiku. A genuine treat, this is a book to both treasure and inspire.
Suggested Reading Age: Teenagers and adults.
Happy Reading!
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Do YOU know of any great haiku books to add to this list? If so, please leave a recommendation below .