My Teacher Dances on the Desk

Eugene Gagliano
Illustrations by Tatjana Mai-Wyss

This entertaining book of poetry is targeted at elementary children, as it should be. The prose is quick, sometimes repetitive, and humorous. Most of the poetry is written from a non-gender point of view, allowing any student to easily identify with the humor. Topics included are the first day of school, wanting to see the nurse, stinky sneakers, a boa constrictor, bubble-gum, and more fun subjects. Each poem should appeal to the kindergarten through second grade ages, and would be a great bedtime read. The title poem, My Teacher Dances on the Desk, is the final poem and reinforces the fun and affection an elementary student hopes for. The illustrations are black ink and cartoonish, that should appeal to small children. This poetry book would be a good inclusion in kindergarten classes.

BIBLIO: 2009, Sleeping Bear Press, Ages 5 to 9, $6.95
REVIEWER: Debby Willett
FORMAT: Poetry Book
ISBN: 978-1-58536-446-6
REVIEWED FOR: Children’s Literature, Online Version, 4/09