When a Book Begins - by Alegra Dashielle

Book Synopsis

When a Book Begins: A Book of Poems - A Whimsical Collection of Laughter, Imagination, and Creativity

Perfect for fans of Jack Prelutsky and Shel Silverstein, When a Book Begins: A Book of Poems invites young readers into a world of playful poetry, humor, and boundless imagination. Each poem starts with the engaging refrain "When a..."--setting the stage for surprising adventures, quirky characters, and unexpected twists that will delight.

In this fantastical world of poems, readers will meet a dog who takes on a wild car ride, a lost flower searching for home, a cranky crow having a particularly bad day, and many more unforgettable characters. Bursting with humor and heart, these poems capture the joy of language and the magic of storytelling. Plus, the final poem encourages young readers to unleash their creativity by writing their own endings--making this book an interactive and inspiring experience!

Key Features & Benefits:
Engaging & Funny: A delightful collection of humorous poems that will have kids giggling and eager to turn the page.
Encourages Creativity: A unique interactive poem invites readers to write and complete their own verses.
Great for Read-Alouds: Rhythmic, lively poems make for fantastic shared reading experiences at home or in the classroom.
A Must-Have for Poetry Fans: A wonderful introduction to poetry, perfect for fans of Shel Silverstein, Jack Prelutsky, and Judith Viorst.

Whether shared at storytime, read aloud in class, or enjoyed independently, When a Book Begins: A Book of Poems is a celebration of words, laughter, and the endless possibilities of imagination.

Review Quotes

Six whimsical entries begin with a refrain of "When a..." in a new book with poems from Dashielle. In "When a Dog Drives," Alarcon's bright, sketchbook-like artwork depicts a child with terrified, wide eyes taken on a wild ride ("I ask very nicely for him to slow down./ He is more careful, but wears a big frown"). Other poems describe a confused daisy, a cranky crow who visits the clouds, a wrinkled rainbow, and a forlorn buttermilk donut. Simple rhyming verses, most set in four-line stanzas, contain a pleasant singsong cadence. Together, art and lines amplify the whimsy, showing images including a cloud therapist and a depressed donut. Human characters are portrayed with various skin tones. Ages 7-9. (Mar.)

Verses to brighten gloomy times, even for a forgetful flower, a cranky crow, and a depressed pastry.
Dashielle offers sweet relief for both readers and the subjects of her poems, from a holeless buttermilk doughnut feeling as "flat as a pancake" to a lost and confused flower suffering an identity crisis ("Am I a tulip? Or maybe a poppy? / Am I original or maybe a copy?")--and for anyone else who's likewise down, such as the sad-looking, dark-skinned child in the opening illustration. For that youngster, at least, riding in a car with a reckless canine driver who howls out the "Bow Wow Blues" elicits a smile. Alternatively, and more feasibly for many, finding that clouds are good listeners lightens the mood of a grumpy crow in one poem, keeping busy indoors in another staves off boredom when "rain reigns" outside, and a glance into a mirror pool along with a hug from Mom is just what that little flower needs to become properly (and literally) grounded. The poet's generally simple language and unforced rhymes lend readability to the verses, and in Alarcon's illustrations, a racially diverse cast of children and adults mingles cozily with scenes of flora, fauna, and (as mentioned) pastry...all with human faces.
Sensitive, sympathetic, and imaginative. (Picture book/poetry. 6-8)

About the Author

ALEGRA DASHIELLE loves books and was a voracious reader throughout her childhood. She gained experience in storytelling in her 20s and early 30s, taking movement theater classes, attending acting school, and writing a solo performance piece.
At 35, Alegra contracted Lyme Disease and was bedridden for many years. During this time, children's stories started coming to her. She finds joy in writing for children. Later, her attendants started bringing their children with them. Alegra spent time reading to and playing with their kids. She gained experience helping children navigate their feelings and emotions.