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Picture Books

Picture Books

Picture Books” is a poem by poet Edgar AlbertEddie’ Guest published in 1931, describing how picture books enable children to explore the world within their own imagination and make connections to characters that are depicted, the book becomes real to them. They also help young readers to visualize the story, if they don’t understand the words the pictures can help them figure out the meaning.

Books are meant to be exciting and engaging and reading and looking at picture books should be a time a child looks forward to, every day. Picture books develop a deeper appreciation for art in kids who can look at a beautifully illustrated picture book and instantly recognize the different colors, art styles, and visual interpretations of the narrative.

The poem celebrates the joys of looking at pictures in books, particularly those that depict far-off places, exotic animals, and heroic adventures. The first stanza lists several different types of pictures that the speaker enjoys looking at, suggesting a wide-ranging and eclectic interest in the world.

The second stanza takes a more whimsical turn, as the speaker imagines what it would be like to live inside the picture books themselves. The speaker longs to be a boy who can fight giants, goblins, and dragons, and to live a life of adventure and heroism. This nostalgic fantasy highlights the way that books can transport us to other worlds and inspire us to dream big.

Overall, “Picture Books” is a charming and nostalgic poem that celebrates the pleasures of reading and imagination. Its simple, straightforward language and playful imagery make it an accessible and enjoyable read for readers of all ages.

“Picture Books” Poem Lyrics

I HOLD the finest picture-books
Are woods an’ fields an’ runnin’ brooks;
An’ when the month o’ May has done
Her paintin’, an’ the mornin’ sun
Is lightin’ just exactly right
Each gorgeous scene for mortal sight,
I steal a day from toil an’ go
To see the springtime’s picture show.

It’s everywhere I choose to tread—
Perhaps I’ll find a violet bed
Half hidden by the larger scenes,
Or group of ferns, or living greens,
So graceful an’ so fine, I swear
That angels must have placed them there
To beautify the lonely spot
That mortal man would have forgot.

What hand can paint a picture book
So marvelous as a runnin’ brook?
It matters not what time o’ day
You visit it, the sunbeams play
Upon it just exactly right,
The mysteries of God to light.
No human brush could ever trace
A droopin’ willow with such grace!

Page after page, new beauties rise
To thrill with gladness an’ surprise
The soul of him who drops his care
And seeks the woods to wander there.
Birds, with the angel gift o’ song,
Make music for him all day long;
An’ nothin’ that is base or mean
Disturbs the grandeur of the scene.

There is no hint of hate or strife;
The woods display the joy of life,
An’ answer with a silence fine
The scoffer’s jeer at power divine.
When doubt is high an’ faith is low,
Back to the woods an’ fields I go,
An’ say to violet and tree:
‘No mortal hand has fashioned thee.’

Frequently asked questions (FAQ's) based on 'Picture Books'

Answer : “Picture Books” is a poem by poet Edgar Albert ‘Eddie.

Answer : The poem was published in 1931.

Answer : Books contains picture explore the world within the  own imagination of the children and make connections to characters that are depicted. If they don’t understand the word picture help them to figure out the meaning.

Answer : A book of picture for your child will instantly glow your child with enthusiasm . They look at the pictures almost as they would watch a movie so the books contains picture are exciting and engaging.

Answer : kids look at a beautifully illustrated picture book and instantly recognize the different colors, art styles, and visual interpretations of the narrative which increase their interest in art ,they also start trying making these pictures which will connect child with art.

Some more details based on "Picture Books"

“Picture Books” is a poem that celebrates the joy of reading and the memories that come with it. The speaker in the poem recalls the times when he used to sit and read picture books with his mother. The poem takes the reader on a nostalgic journey and reminds us of the importance of preserving the tradition of reading and passing it down to future generations.

The poem begins with the speaker reminiscing about the time when he was a child and would sit with his mother and read picture books. He talks about how the stories and characters in those books were his companions and how they would take him to different places and times.

One of the main features of the poem is its use of imagery. Guest uses vivid and descriptive language to paint a picture of the scenes he is describing. For example, he writes, “And there were knights in armor, / And ladies, sweet and fair, / And goblins, trolls and giants, / Who roamed the forests there.” Here, the reader can easily visualize the knights in their shining armor, the ladies in their beautiful dresses, and the mythical creatures that the speaker encountered in the books.

Another characteristic of the poem is its message of the importance of reading and the memories that come with it. The poem suggests that reading is not just a solitary activity, but a shared experience that can bring people together. Guest writes, “And so we’d read together, / My mother and I and then, / Though years have passed and mother’s gone, / I can live it all again.” Here, the speaker recalls the memories of reading with his mother and how those moments have stayed with him even after all these years.

Some activities for children's based on "Picture Books"

  1. Create Your Own Picture Book: This activity encourages children to use their imaginations and creativity to create their own story and illustrations. To get started, provide the children with blank paper and art supplies like crayons, markers, and stickers. Encourage them to brainstorm a story and then draw pictures to go along with it. Once they’ve finished their picture books, have them share their creations with the group. You can also encourage the children to read each other’s picture books and discuss the stories and illustrations.

Note: This activity promotes creativity, imagination, and storytelling skills in children. It also helps to improve their fine motor skills as they use art supplies to create illustrations.

  1. Story Time with Picture Books: Reading picture books aloud to children is a great way to promote literacy skills and a love of reading. To get started, gather a collection of picture books that are appropriate for the age group of the children. You can choose books based on a particular theme or subject, or let the children choose which books they would like to hear. As you read each book aloud, encourage the children to ask questions, make predictions, and retell the story in their own words. This helps to improve their comprehension and vocabulary skills. You can also ask open-ended questions to promote critical thinking and encourage the children to engage with the story on a deeper level.

Note: This activity promotes literacy skills, improves vocabulary, and fosters a love of reading in children. It also provides an opportunity for children to develop their listening skills and engage in meaningful discussions with their peers.

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