Subject
Children's poetry, American Books
Best books
Clement Clarke Moore
Twas the Night before Christmas: A Visit from St. Nicholas
"'Twas the Night before Christmas: A Visit from St. Nicholas" by Clement Clarke Moore is a poem first published anonymously in 1823. On Christmas Eve, a father witnesses a magical visitor arrive by sleigh and reindeer, bounding down the chimney to deliver presents and fill stockings. This beloved work transformed American ideas about Santa Claus and Christmas gift-giving, though its authorship sparked controversy between Moore and Henry Livingston Jr. The poem has been called "arguably the best-known verses ever written by an American."
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Come Hither: A Collection of Rhymes and Poems for the Young of All Ages
"Come Hither: A Collection of Rhymes and Poems for the Young of All Ages" by Walter de la Mare is a collection of children's poems and rhymes crafted in the early 20th century. The book celebrates themes of nature, childhood, and the joys of youth through whimsical and melodic verse. It features a mix of original works and classic nursery rhymes, encouraging readers of all ages to engage in the wonder of poetry. The opening portion of the book introduces a nostalgic journey to a mysterious old house called Thrae, under the observation of a young boy named Simon. He recalls his fond memories of exploring the area, including his encounters with Miss Taroone, a somewhat austere yet intriguing woman who lives there. The narrative captures Simon's mix of fear, curiosity, and admiration, as he navigates the enchanting world surrounding Thrae, piquing interest in the connection between memory, imagination, and the house's secrets, which suggest a magical quality that impacts the boy's understanding of life and poetry.
James Whitcomb Riley
Riley Child-Rhymes
"Riley Child-Rhymes" by James Whitcomb Riley is a collection of children's poetry written during the late 19th century. This book captures the whimsy, innocence, and imaginative scope of childhood experiences, presenting a delightful assortment of rhymes that reflect the joys and trials of young life. The verses often celebrate simple pleasures, nature, and the rich tapestry of rural childhood, making it a quintessential piece of American children's literature. The poems within "Riley Child-Rhymes" draw readers into a world filled with playful narratives and entertaining characters. From tales of "Little Orphant Annie" warning children of unseen goblins to the adventures of a “Happy Little Cripple," Riley's verses evoke nostalgia as they explore themes of childhood mischief, the magic of storytelling, and life's lessons imparted through lighthearted anecdotes. The rhythmic quality and conversational tone serve to engage young readers, capturing their imaginations while continuing to resonate with adults reflecting on their own pasts. Each poem encapsulates a unique memory or moment, allowing readers to relive the carefree exuberance of youth.
Hilda Conkling
Poems By a Little Girl
"Poems By a Little Girl" by Hilda Conkling is a collection of poems written during the early 20th century. This enchanting volume showcases the imaginative world of a child, filled with themes of nature, family, and the wonder of childhood itself. Hilda Conkling wrote these poems at a remarkably young age, demonstrating a unique perspective that merges innocence with poetic expression. The collection features over a hundred poems, each capturing the beauty and simplicity of a child's thoughts. Conkling's work is characterized by vivid imagery and playful language, often reflecting her experiences in nature and her deep love for her mother. The poems convey feelings of joy, curiosity, and the magical elements of the world, from flowers and trees to dreams and fairies. With an intimate quality, the poems express a child's fascination with life and nature, creating a timeless connection that resonates with readers of all ages. The preface by Amy Lowell adds depth, acknowledging the rarity of such talent coming from a young author while also reflecting on the influence of the nurturing environment that supported Hilda's creativity.
Nora Archibald Smith
The Christmas child : $b and other verse for children
No description available.
Various
Poems Teachers Ask For Selected by readers of "Normal Instructor-Primary Plans"
"Poems Teachers Ask For" by Various is a collection of poetry compiled in response to reader requests, likely produced in the early 20th century. This anthology features poems frequently sought by educators for inclusion in a magazine aimed at teachers, highlighting works that support the educational curriculum and resonate with both students and teachers. The poems range in theme and style, making the collection a valuable resource for those in the teaching profession. The beginning of this collection outlines its purpose, explaining that the poems were selected based on their popularity among readers of the "Normal Instructor-Primary Plans." The introduction conveys a sense of community and demand for these classic works, which include famous poems by notable authors like Walt Whitman and John Greenleaf Whittier. The opening portion also provides insight into the types of poems featured, such as those meant for memorization or recitation in schools, making it clear that the anthology serves as an important tool in enhancing literary appreciation in educational settings.
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Story-Telling Ballads Selected and Arranged for Story-Telling and Reading Aloud and for the Boys' and Girls' Own Reading
"Story-Telling Ballads" by Frances Jenkins Olcott is a collection of ballads and narrative poems curated for young readers, written in the early 20th century. This compilation features 77 ballads, drawing from traditional lore, legends, and adventures from various cultures, tailored for children aged twelve to fifteen. The chosen selections aim to capture the imagination of youthful audiences with stirring tales of heroism, magic, and romance. At the start of the text, readers are introduced to the purpose of the collection and the nature of the ballads included. The foreword discusses how ballads historically served as a mode of storytelling that enthralls young listeners with themes of chivalry, love, and adventure. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of these narratives in both entertaining children and imparting life lessons. The opening highlights the rich diversity of characters and stories awaiting the reader, as well as the significance of ballads in nurturing a love for literature and learning.
Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
The Children's Own Longfellow
"The Children's Own Longfellow" by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow is a collection of poems aimed at children, published in the early 20th century. This book encapsulates some of Longfellow's most beloved works, making them accessible and engaging for young readers. Often referred to as "the children's poet," Longfellow's themes often revolve around creativity, adventure, and morality, making his writings ideal for nurturing a child's imagination and sense of wonder. The collection features several well-known pieces such as "The Wreck of the Hesperus," "Evangeline," "Paul Revere's Ride," and excerpts from "The Song of Hiawatha." Each poem captures gripping narratives and vivid imagery, allowing readers to experience tales of love, heroism, and the natural world. Illustrations accompany the text, enhancing the appeal for children and bringing the stories to life. Through Longfellow's lyrical language and rhythms, young readers are introduced to captivating stories that often contain underlying moral lessons, fostering both enjoyment and learning.
Various
Poems Teachers Ask For, Book Two
"Poems Teachers Ask For, Book Two" by Various is a collection of poems written likely in the early 20th century. This anthology contains over two hundred selections that have been requested by readers of the magazine "Normal Instructor-Primary Plans." The poems, notable for their variety and emotional depth, cover a wide range of topics including love, loss, nature, and societal themes, making them suitable for educational settings and personal reflection alike. The beginning of this collection presents an extensive index of poem titles along with their authors, highlighting well-known poets such as Edgar Allan Poe, Rudyard Kipling, and Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. The preface offers insight into the anthology's purpose: to fulfill the demand for specific poems favored by educators. The opening pieces convey themes of home, the sadness of abandonment, the beauty of nature, and the resilience of spirit, setting the stage for diverse emotional experiences that the reader can anticipate throughout the volume.
Elizabeth Gordon
Flower Children: The Little Cousins of the Field and Garden
"Flower Children: The Little Cousins of the Field and Garden" by Elizabeth Gordon is a delightful children's book written in the early 20th century. This work can be classified as a whimsical illustrated collection that celebrates the enchanting connection between children and flowers. The text blends poetic verses with charming illustrations, offering readers a tender perspective on nature and childhood innocence. In this book, the author imagines flowers as sentient beings, each with their own personalities and stories, reflecting the characteristics and antics of children. Through playful poems and vivid imagery, readers meet various flower children—such as the bold Crocus, the sweet Daffodil, and the stately Lady Tulip—each embodying different traits and emotions. The verses capture the essence of springtime and the joys of nature, drawing a parallel between the flowering plants and the innocence of youth, ultimately encouraging children to appreciate the beauty of their environment and the wonders of growing up.
Clement Clarke Moore
A Visit From Saint Nicholas
Wikipedia page about this book: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/A_Visit_from_St._Nicholas
James W. (James William) Foley
Boys and Girls The Verses of James W. Foley
"Boys and Girls" by James W. Foley is a collection of verses written in the early 20th century. The compilation is centered around the experiences, joys, and trials of childhood, expressed through the perspectives of various children. Each poem captures a different aspect of childhood adventures, emotions, and the whimsical nature of being young. At the start of the collection, the opening verses introduce readers to the carefree spirit of a little boy as he sets out to play, promising to return shortly. This charming portrayal of playtime is followed by reflections on the reciprocal nature of smiles and the innocence of youth in various domestic scenes, hinting at the dynamics of family life and the joy found in simple moments. Through the eyes of young characters, the verses explore themes of joy, friendship, adventure, and the bittersweetness of growing up, setting a nostalgic and playful tone for the rest of the collection.
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