Genre 2 Book 3

1. Bibliography
Schwartz, Alvin. 1992. AND THE GREEN GRASS GREW ALL AROUND; FOLK POETRY FROM EVERYONE. New York: Harper Collins Publishers.
ISBN 0060227583
Illustrated by: Sue Truesdell

2. Plot Summary
In this book, Schwartz produces over 250 folk poems that have something for everyone. Divided into sections, one can find poems, riddles, and songs that make them want to sing out and possible create some poetry of their own. Topics range from people to school and true love to wishes and warnings. The illustrations that accompany each work add humor to make it even more appealing to the audience.

3. Critical Analysis
The variety of poems, riddles and songs enhance the readability. One can choose to simply read, chant or even sing the words on each page. Schwartz plays upon children’s vulnerabilities by creating rhymes that contrast ways in which some may get ridiculed. In a section titled “Teases and Taunts”, Schwartz pens thirty-one rhymes to help you say what you think. For example, “Stare, stare like a bear – Sitting in your underwear” is one such rhyme a child might use if someone is staring at them.

Also found are a variety of styles: cadences, rhymes, limericks and more. Illustrations are also a strong point. Drawn in black and white, the characters are created with exaggerated humor. Children might not always understand the underlying humor in the words; however, they will gain a lot of delight from the pictures. To wrap up the book, Schwartz ingeniously ends the book with “Good night, Sleep tight, Don’t let the bedbugs bite”

4. Review Excerpt(s)
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL: “Schwartz has gathered sassy, funny, scary, and slightly naughty children's folk poetry heard on school grounds and wherever else kids are having fun.”
KIRKUS: “It's hard to imagine a child who wouldn't greet this treasure trove with enthusiasm.”

5. Connections
Children will get a variety of folk poems all in one book. This book will be a great model for an introduction into a poetry unit. Have students create their own poems using tunes or rhythms found or even have them create their own tunes and rhythms.
Other books containing folk poetry:
Book of American Folk Tale and Songs by Diane Goodes
Thirteen Moons on Turtles Backs by Joseph Bruchac