
They Only See the Outside
Kalli Dakos, Author
Jimothy Oliver, Illustrator
Magination Press, Poetry, Mar. 23, 2021
Suitable for ages: 7- 10
Themes: Poetry, Emotions, Bullying, Name calling, Illness, Death, War, Immigration, Separation
Kalli Dakos has written a beautiful collection of poetry that explores what kids feel on the inside that can’t be seen from the outside. The poems focus on everyday experiences that range from body image, the death of a pet or friend, and homework, to friends moving away, living in a wheelchair and the difficulties of being a refugee.
Kids will relate to each poem in some manner. They are written in free verse, which makes them fun and contemporary. The poems nudge kids to explore their own feelings about each subject. Oliver’s sensitive and expressive illustrations complement the poems and make them relatable.
I Will Never Crumble
I’m in a wheelchair.
My dad is too.
I want to ride a bike.
I want to hike.
I want to run in the wind.
I want to play soccer.
But I can’t.
I ask my dad,
“why me? Why us?
My dad says,
“Why NOT Us?
Life is unfair,
but we must go on anyway…
They Only See the Outside is a perfect tool for teachers, parents and counselors. The poems can be read aloud and discussed. The poems will introduce kids to writing free verse. Encourage kids to write their own poems about something they are feeling inside. And they can be humorous. Writing can help draw out feelings and make them easier to talk about. I highly recommend this book!
Kalli Dakos is a children’s poet and educator. She visits schools across the United States and Canada to encourage children and teacher to write about their own lives. She has written many collections of school poems that include six ILA/CBC Children’s Choice Selections, such as If You’re Not Here, Please Raise Your Hand. She lives in Ottawa, Canada, and has an office in Ogdensburg, NY. Visit here at her website.
Greg Pattridge hosts Marvelous Middle Grade Monday posts on his wonderful Always in the Middle website. Check out the link to see all of the wonderful reviews by KidLit bloggers and authors.
Such a great idea to put a collection of poems into a book that not only encourages kids to write their own free verse, but may let them see their own problems in a different light. A perfect choice to start off the new year. I will be sure to pass on your review to others.
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The poems have so much depth and humor to them and kids will relate. My favorite poem is one of a boy looking into a mirror and saying “I know what you did.” How many kids and adults can relate to that! Love this book!
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I can see this being used in a classroom! I’m glad you included a sample poem. A good way to empathize with others’ experiences of the world.
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This book really encourages readers to explore their feelings and find their voice in another way. I love that teachers can encourage kids to write free verse poems.
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This sounds like a lovely book of poetry for young readers with such a powerful premise! I really appreciate your thoughtful review of it, Patricia! Happy new year!
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Thank you! It is a lovely book for young readers! Happy New Year!
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Thanks for your thoughtful review.
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I’m not usually a fan of poetry, but I loved the poem you included.
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I have come to really love free verse. And this book really helps kids see there are different ways to express themselves through poetry that doesn’t require rhyming.
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I am going to have to find a copy of this book. It sounds not only important but powerful and beautiful. Thanks so much for the review.
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Thank you for your comment. It is a very beautiful book for readers — especially for those who may want to learn to express themselves.
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I love the title of this book and the concept is great. It’s good to have books that help children discuss their feelings.
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