My America: A Poetry Atlas of the United States

by Lee Bennett Hopkins

Book Overview

In My America, Lee Bennett Hopkins weaves together fifty poems -- grouped by geographic region -- to create a remarkable portrait of the United States. Here is America in all its stunning variety, from the dramatic seacoast of the Northeast and the rippling cornfields of the Plains States to the shimmering deserts of the Southwest and the majestic redwood forests of the Pacific Coast. But here, too, are the ties that bind this nation together -- the hopes and dreams of those who live in our cities and towns and on farms. The voices of beloved poets like Langston Hughes, Carl Sandburg, Nikki Giovanni, and Lilian Moore blend with new voices to sing not just of landmarks like the Mississippi River, the Grand Canyon, and the Everglades, but of daily life across the land. Complementing these personal, moving visions of America are maps of the regions and fascinating facts for each state. Stephen Alcorn's brilliant, textured artwork makes this book a feast for the eyes as well as for the imagination. Impressive for its breadth, depth, and beauty, My America is a volume readers will savor as they read it time and time again. It is fitting homage to our wideranging, ever-changing land

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0689812477
• ISBN13: 9780689812477
• Release Date: September 2000
• Publisher: Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers
• Length: 96 Pages
• Weight: 1.50 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.6" x 9.6" x 10.6"
• Age Range: 8 to 12 years
• Grade Range: Grades 3 to 7

Customer Reviews

A great addition to poetry collections

Take a journey through this great county through the eyes of poets. Fun facts from each state, maps and beautiful illustrations enhance the selection of poems. I was hooked from the introduction on. Good for all ages.

Poetry and geography in a great package

When I was younger I was one of those kids who memorized the state capitals and wanted to know detailed information. I would have been crazy for this book which has some basic factual information, but is really a celebration of poetry and our country. The art is amazing and vibrant. It's a gift book, but I know children will actually dig in and really enjoy reading it. Highly recommed for school units on poetry and the US.