Fathers, Mothers, Sisters, Brothers: A Collection of Family Poems

Rating:
Summary: A humorous and sensitive book
Review: Genuine characters juggle their big sisters, step-mothers, and cheek- pinching aunts in this collection of family-centered poems. While Fathers, Mothers, Sisters, Brothers entertains young readers with situational humor and sprightly rhyme, selections such as "Half-Whole-Step" and "When Annie Was Adopted" deviate from its lighthearted verse to celebrate and explore diversity: "I am a half-brother / I am a whole-brother / I am a step-brother / There's just one of me!" Although metaphor is sparse, Mary Ann Hoberman's utilization of natural meter and playful diction spawns vocalization of each line. Readers will smirk and reminisce as they hear, "A not-everyday jacket / That's-not-for-play-jacket / A do-as-I-say jacket." Aside from the different features and members of families, this collection reveals those situations common in many households, such as new births, shyness around extended family members, and jealousy among siblings. Varying tone and dynamic narratives encourage children to read this book as a whole, but inclusion of different family types provokes students to focus on certain poems to which they relate. Marylin Hafner's lively illustrations complement the multicultural slant of Hoberman's poetry, encompassing a kaleidoscope of individuals and lifestyles. Each colored-pencil drawing supplies glimpses into the action of each poem and drives readers to consider what happens next. Children ages four to eight will enjoy the book's smooth, fun language, its action-packed pictures, and its sensitivity to their own lives.