Shape poems or concrete poems make a wonderful introduction to poetry. These visual poems combine written words and imagery to make a statement. The poem is traditionally arranged in the shape of its subject or something associated with it. Line spacing and typography are often manipulated to further enhance the technique. Shape poems came to prominence in the late 20th Century but according to Masterclass.com can be traced back to Ancient Greece. These poems pack a visual punch and are often playful in approach. Sit back and enjoy!
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Doodle Dandies: Poems That Take Shape
by J. Patrick Lewis (Author), Lisa Desimini (Illustrator)
Review: Doodle Dandies: Poems That Take Shape is an inviting, fun introduction to shape poems. Vibrantly coloured, bold illustrations capture the reader’s attention providing further dimension to these poems and an additional talking point. The collection includes poems about nature, animals, the seasons, sports and space. Highly recommended.
Look below to see inside the book.
Suggested Reading Age: 4 to 8 years old.
A Poke in the I: A Collection of Concrete Poems
by Paul B. Janeczko (Editor), Chris Raschka (Illustrator)
Review: This super collection of poems not only introduces readers to shape poems but also to the fun that they can have with language. A Poke In the I showcases how typography and its placement can be an element of a poem in itself. The anthology includes poems about pigeons, skipping ropes, lightbulbs and swans. This would make a perfect next step for older readers who have read Doodle Dandies, featured above.
Watch below to see a selection of featured poems.
Suggested Reading Age: 6 to 10-year-olds. Some of these poems, such as the swan, could be used with older readers, too.
Apes To Zebras A-Z Of Shape Poems
by Liz Brownlee, Sue Hardy-Dawson and Roger Stevens (Authors), Lorna Scobie (Illustrator)
Review: This selection of shape poems is an absolute treat for animal lovers. Featuring animals and insects from A to Z, Liz Brownlee, Sue Hardy-Dawson and Roger Stevens ably demonstrate the power of shape poems. From bats to dinosaurs to orangutans and turtles, readers will be inspired to create their own shape poem alphabets. Lorna Scobie’s charming illustrations further add to the reader’s enjoyment.
Suggested Reading Age: 7 to 9 years old. In my opinion, this would also appeal to many older readers and would be a great mentor text for older students to further explore this poetic form.
Ode To A Commode: Concrete Poems
by Brian P. Cleary (Author), Andy Rowland (Illustrator)
Review: From its front cover onward, Brian Cleary’s Ode To A Commode captures the imagination of its intended audience. Bright and fun, young poets will gain plenty of inspiration from this volume. Cleary begins by explaining what a concrete poem is. He then proceeds to provide some suggested topics for concrete poems before sharing those he has written. Part of the Poetry Adventures series, this is a great springboard to get children writing.
Suggested Reading Age: 7 to 11-year-olds.
A Mix Of Concrete Poems
By Bob Raczka
Review: Clever and appealing, Bob Raczka’s concrete poems are a delight to look at and read. With subjects as diverse as the big dipper, coat hangers, corners and icicles there is something to pique everyone’s imagination. In his introduction, Raczka explains that he thinks of poetry as “word paintings”. His clever use of text positioning, coupled with his word choice reflects this belief. Recommended.
Suggested Reading Age: 8 to 12 years old. In my opinion, this provides plenty of inspiration for older poets, too.
Blue Lipstick: Concrete Poems
by John Grandits
Suggested Reading Age: 10 to 12 year-olds. In my opinion, this is appealing to teenage readers, too.
Technically, It’s Not My Fault
by John Grandits
Suggested Reading Age: 10 -12 years Boys
Review: Blue Lipstick: Concrete Poems and Technically, It’s Not My Fault make a perfect pair of companion books. Blue Lipstick centres around Jessie as the main protagonist and Technically, It’s Not My Fault, centres on Robert. Both collections feature poems that will strike a chord with boys and girls in their pre-teenage and teenage years. From sleepovers to homework to bad hair, these humorous offerings provide older readers with an engaging poetry form. In addition, readers will also find the odd “standard ” poetic form nestled in their midst.
Happy Reading!
Other Language & Literacy Posts You May Enjoy:
Powerful Poetry: How To Write A Poem For Beginners
Poetry Anthologies For Kids & Teens
Do YOU know any other shape/concrete poetry books to add to this list? If yes, please leave a recommendation below .