The Magical World of Poetry introduces children to poetry through a hands-on approach, teaching them about different styles and giving them the tools to write their own poems. What inspired you to blend a poetry collection with a workbook-style experience?

As an educator, I really wanted to create something that was not only enjoyable but also accessible to readers. The workbook-style experience allows students interested (either now or in years to come!) to help organize their thoughts. Hopefully, this allows readers of all ages to feel confident in their own creative abilities.

You introduce forms like haiku, cinquain, and acrostics in a very accessible way. How did you decide which forms to include?

I’ve always been interested in the different forms of poetry, having myself written haikus, acrostics, free verse poetry, and poetry in rhyme. Cinquain was new to me, too! I wanted to introduce readers to many different forms, as you never know what might unlock a love of creating.

The concrete poems and illustrations add a strong visual layer. How important is imagery in helping kids understand poetry?

I feel imagery is very important, particularly for young children. Students are sometimes intimidated by poetry, but by including fun, quirky pictures, I’ve seen kids excited to create beyond what they’ve always thought poetry “should” look like.

Will this book be the start of a series, or are you working on a different story?

I love to dabble in all sorts of genres, having previously published an early chapter book and novel-in-verse. I hadn’t intended on this being a series, but I guess never say never!

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