LS 5663 Module 4: Science Poetry

Earthshake

Westberg Peters, Lisa. 2003. EARTHSHAKE: POEMS FROM THE GROUND UP. Ill. Cathie Felstead. Greenwillow Books. ISBN 978-0-06-029266-9

Review:

Lisa Westberg Peters helps us explore our world using twenty-two poems about geology. Covered topics include erosion, wind, lava, fossils, quartz, meteorites, and sandstone, among others. Peters poems range from concrete to haiku to free verse.

 The genius behind this short book is the way Peters takes subjects one might think of as dull and makes them come alive. She uses short, sometimes silly, yet interesting poems to discuss geology in an imaginative and unique manner. Peters also gives her readers three pages of endnotes. These endnotes give an explanation of each geological topic discussed within her poems.

Illustrator Cathie Felstead's use of mixed-media collage artwork creates the perfect complement to Peter's poetry. Her illustrations are vibrant and energetic. Predominantly in blues and green, they bring to mind earthly elements.

Highlighted Poem:

Continental Promises

Dear 

Africa,

Stay close!

We'll be 

friends 

forever.

Love,

South America

Dear

South America,

My coastlines 

are your

coastlines.

My deserts 

are your 

deserts.

We're rock-solid.

Love, 

Africa

Possible Uses:

Teachers can use the poem "Continental Promises" to begin a study on Pangaea. Students should also read "Obituary of a Clam" to further understand the changes our planet has undergone.