*Kiyoshi’s Walk by Mark Karlins

In a simple, direct way, Kiyoshi’s Walk answers the question, “Where  do poems come from?”

*Kiyoshi’s Walk by Mark Karlins, illustrated by Nicole Wong. Lee & Low, 2021, 30 pages.

Reading Level: Picture book, ages 4-8

Recommended for: ages 6-10

Kiyoshi’s grandfather is a well-known poet, specializing in traditional haiku. One fine day, as Koyoshi watches Eto complete a poem (in traditional Japanese calligraphy), he asks, “Where do poems come from?” Rather than answering the question, Eto suggests that they take a walk. The urban landscape they traverse has a European flavor with a multi-ethnic population. At every place Kiyoshi and his grandfather stop to observe or taste or simply rest, Eto writes a poem. With each poem, Kiyoshi gathers more insight into his inspiration. Finally he understands: “They come from here”—opening his arms to take in the landscape. “And they come from here”—pointing to his heart. “’Yes,’ said Eto, ‘and they come from the way the two come together.’”

A simple definition, yet profound. In fact, it’s hard to find a better way to explain what lyric poetry is all about.

Overall Rating: 4.75 (out of 5)

• Worldview/moral value: 4.5
• Artistic/literary value: 5

Also at Redeemed Reader

• Review: One of our favorite poetry collections: I’m Just No Good at Rhyming. We dare you not to like it!
• Resource: Megan’s Guaranteed, Irresistible, Effortless Introduction to Poetry for People Who Doubt They Like It.
• Resource: A roundup of outstanding poetry anthologies.

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