Grandits, John. 2004. Technically, It's Not My Fault. Ill. by John Grandits. New York: Houghton Mifflin Co. ISBN-13: 978-0-618-42833-5.
SUMMARY
This book of concrete poetry is packed full of imaginative poems that will entertain smart-alecks of all ages. There are 28 poems total with each written with the main character, Robert, as the narrator and driver of each poem.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS
My first thought about the layout, illustrations, and poem structures was...COOL! This book provides the reader with excellent examples of multiple possibilities of concrete (shape) poem structure. Red, black, and white illustrations lend direction to how the poetry should be read from start to finish. This book has great potential to appeal to the misunderstood geniuses out there in the world. The main character is a boy--expressing his thoughts and antics--from sibling rivalry to challenging adult authority, to which will definitely appeal to boys alike. All children of school age, no matter the gender, can appreciate the commonalities expressed within the poetry of this book. My Stupid Day is one of those gender neutral poems that can appeal to both sexes--as well as all ages. It completely exemplifies the typical rut that we all find ourselves stuck in on a daily basis. This poem would be great when read aloud about three to four times to feel the full effect of the rut. :-)
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Introduction: This book is hilarious and would be a great book of concrete poetry to introduce to older school age children--to encourage a love for poetry.
Extension: Have children draw a picture of a favorite toy, item, or symbol that reflects something significant in their past or present. Then, have them construct their own shape poem within their drawing. Expose the children to about two additional concrete poetry books from different authors to compare different styles.
BIBLIOGRAPHY
Hauth, Katherine B. 2011. What's for Dinner?: Quirky, Squirmy Poems from the Animal World. Ill. by David Clark. Massachusetts: Charlesbridge Publishing, Inc. ISBN-13: 978-1570914713.
