Grandits, John. (2007) BLUE LIPSTICK: CONCRETE POEMS. New York, NY: Clarion Books. ISBN 9780618568604
Summary:
Funny, humorous 15 year old Jessie tells the story of her life events in poetic concrete poems. Jessie’s strong opinions and thoughts are cynical. Jessie’s relationships with those around her are distinctive and ordinary. New hair cuts with bad hair days, the annoying little brother that Jessie wants to get rid of (at least for a little bit) and school places and events that Jessie experiences in this poem book gives us further detail on how she interacts with her elders, feels and accomplishes her everyday tasks.
Critical Analysis:
Students in grades 5th – 9th, particularly girls, will love John Grandits’ BLUE LIPSTICK. The related topics that are common to the everyday life of the typical teenage student is honest, universal and humorous. Through Jessie’s point of view, school experiences and interactions, readers can relate and enjoy a simple laugh at the common issues that most kids their age encounter. The busy wording and art shaped poems tie in the words and illustrations. It may be rather annoying for adults but students will enjoy the spontaneous and creative display of poems.
REVIEWS:
Voya
“Teens might be enticed to pick up the book with its cover in the shape of a mirror poem with a shimmery silver background, but they will likely be disappointed that the voice wavers between authentic and adult-speak throughout.”
School Library Journal
“This irreverent, witty collection should resonate with a wide audience.”
CLASSROOM CONNECTIONS:
Although this book relates to the issues and circumstances of the typical teenager, I think this book is more suited for joy reading. The poetic form and creative styles of the poem display could be used to style various ways to display poetry, write poetry and illustrate poetry. I do think that this book would be great for school counselors to speak with students about issues that they and use this book as a ice breaker, resource tool and as a communication assignment for students to use at home with their parents.
RELATED BOOKS:
Other books by John Grandits to share…
Technically, IT’S NOT MY FAULT by John Grandits
TRAVEL GAME by John Grandits
A similar theme (middle school / high school drama) book to share…
MIDDLE SCHOOL IS WORSE THAN MEATLOAF: A YEAR TOLD THROUGH STUFF by Jennifer L Holm
A similar type of poem (concrete) book to share….
A POKE IN THE I: A COLLECTION OF CONCRETE POEMS by Chris Rashka
book cover
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