Dark Emperor & Other Poems of the Night - Poems

Dark Emperor & Other Poems of the Night

By Joyce Sidman 

Illustrated by Rick Allen

Summary

This 2011 Newbery Honor book contains 12 poems that features creatures of the night.  Each poem contains dark and detailed illustrations and a paragraph or two with factual information. 

Poems on the left, illustrations on the right, then factual description about that creature.

Annie’s Thoughts:

Joyce Sidman's poems are lyrical and have a magical feel to them.   Sidman offers vivid and descriptive wording that appeal to the senses:

I am a baby porcupette.

My paws are small; my nose is wet.

And as I nurse against my mom,

we mew and coo a soft duet. 

These poems are vivid, flow wonderfully, and have a good rhythm that make it a joy to read.  This paired with beautiful illustrations and facts make this book a must read. 

Classroom Activates:

 Writing Assignments - Think of another creature that comes out at night.  Write your own poem, make your own drawing, then research and write a factional piece.

Mouse Ears - Explain that mice rely on their hearing to avoid their predators. Have students shut their eyes and listen carefully.  Each student write down the sounds they heard, and compare

 

Response Questions:

Which is your favorite poem? Which was your favorite illustration?  Which fact did you find the most interesting and why?

Look at the picture of a primrose flower, can you explain how the primrose moth got it's name?

References:

Sidman, J. (2010). Dark Emperor & Other Poems of the Night.

Sidman, J. (2010). Dark Emperor & Other Poems of the Night - Reader's Guide. Retrieved from http://www.joycesidman.com/books/dark-emperor-and-other/dark_emp_rg.pdf