First published in 1956, May Swenson's "The Centaur" remains one of her most popular and most anthologized poems. This is its first appearance as a picture book for children.

In images bright and brisk and nearly tangible, the poet re-creates the joy of riding a stick horse through a small-town summer. We find ourselves, with her, straddling "a long limber horse with . . . a few leaves for a tail," and pounding through the lovely dust along the path by the old canal. As her shape shifts from child to horse and back, we know exactly what she feels.

Sherry Meidell's water-color illustrations perfectly convey the wit and wisdom of May Swenson's poem. These are playful, satisfying images full of vitality and imagination. Meidell handles the joy of poem's fantasy and the joy of its occasional naughtiness with equal success.

Other books by and about May Swenson: Body My House, May Swenson, Dear Elizabeth, May Out West

Accolades to Erica Taylor for Figler: My Imaginary Friend. Taylor takes her readers on a journey of self-realization as a child comes to ultimately discover that the wonderful abilities possessed by Figler, the beloved imaginary friend, are talents (he/she) also possesses. The whimsical illustrations draw readers into the main character’s journey of self-discovery.  This book offers a delightful poetic read inspiring young readers to dare to imagine and reach for the impossible.
Jeanine Wood - Distance Learning Coordinator Northeast Arkansas Education Cooperative Walnut Ridge, Arkansas