Omnibeasts

1. BIBLOGRAPHIC DATA
Omnibeasts

Written and Illustrated by Douglas Florian

Published by Harcourt, Inc.

ISBN 0-15-205038-8


2. PLOT SUMMARY
In this delightful collection of aminal poems, selected from previously published works, Florian captures the unique characteristics of many members of the animal kingdom. Florian writes consice poems about our fellow animal friends, then combines his writing with his delightful style of artwork to make the poems in this book come alive. A well-organized table of contents makes it easy for the reader to locate their favorite poem. Type size and spacing also play an important role in aiding the reader to "see" the animal which is being described so elequently on the page.

3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Being an animal lover, I was automatically drawn to this book. However, after reading the first two or three poems in the book, I was in love! In precise, carefully chosen words, Florian manages to capture the characteristics of the animals he features in this book. Even if the book had of been published without his great artwork, the reader would still be able to visualize the animals he is writing about from his words alone. Another great feature of the poems is the use of type size and placement. For example, in his poem, "The Bactrian Camel," the entire poem is written in the shape of the camel's double humps. If you enjoy puns and humorous wordplay, then this book is an excellent choice for you as well. Clever lines like this one from, "The Persian" will be sure to bring a smile to any face--"I am a cat of longhaired version. A pet-igree that's known as purrrsian." The imagery that Florian creates in these poems is amazing, whether expressed as a concrete poem, through the use of onomatopoeia, or rhyme. Readers of this book will have a hard time selecting just one favorite!

(On a personal note, I have been slowly decorating my Elementary School Library with an animal theme, and plan to post several of these poems and display them on the walls of the library.)

4. REVIEW EXCERPTS:
*From School Library Journal--"A treasure chest of wit and charm. This book has enormous appeal for readers of many ages."

5. CONNECTIONS:
*Read selected poems to students without revealing the title or sharing the picture. Can students guess the animal being described? After taking some guesses, re-read the poem and share the accompanying picture.
*This book would make an excellent introduction for an animal unit. Share poems with students, and have them select a particular poem to research the featured animal to determine what parts of the poem are fact.