AMAZING FACES written by Lee Bennett Hopkins and illustrated by Chris Soentpiet

Review by Christi De Leon

a.    BIBLIOGRAPHY

Hopkins, Lee Bennett. Amazing Faces. Ill. by Chris Soentpiet. New York: Lee & Low Books, 2010. ISBN 9781620142236

b.    SUMMARY & CRITICAL ANALYSIS

Amazing Faces includes sixteen poems for young readers selected by anthologist Lee Bennett Hopkins. This contemporary collection celebrates diversity by representing various people, including children, with a multitude of emotions. The poems in this anthology are also written by poets of diverse backgrounds.

This anthology consists of works written by children’s writers, new poets, and poets who have been well-known for some time. Among these are Jane Yolen, Mary E. Cronin, and Langston Hughes. Some include a slice of a particular poem as indicated with the word “from.” Others include the entire poem. Regardless, each is indicated with bolded, capitalized titles. The poems all flow together flawlessly. Each one is different, yet valuable to the collection as a whole. Diversity is represented in a celebratory way. The last poem, "My People" by Langston Hughes, brings all the people together in a wonderful way, allowing readers to make connections with others of various backgrounds.

A half-page is dedicated to each poem with a large, detailed scene on the opposite side. The watercolor portraits depict the life-like faces and feelings of people, focusing on children. Various emotions of children based on universal ideas are captured with richness by the words and illustrations. In "Amazing Face," the baby is expressing pure joy as the mother envisions what the future holds. In "Me X 2," the young girl is recognizing the fact that she is bilingual by sharing what it means to her. In "Miss Stone," the young girl is thankful for her great teacher. In "I'm the One," the young boy communicates his yearning to be accepted by his peers. In "High in the Sky," the boy appreciates his alone time as he soaks up the beauty of nature. Each poem is great for sharing aloud or reaching kids who may relate to someone in this collection.

c.    POEM TO SPOTLIGHT AND SHARE

"Firefighter Face"

By Mary E. Cronin

Trickles of sweat etch silvery trails

down wind-bitten cheeks coated with ash.

Curtains of vapor, with each breath he exhales,

wreathe his tired smile, his drooping mustache.

Framed by smoke-smudged wrinkles,

soot-black eyebrows cannot hide

a flash of blue eyes that twinkle

with strength and triumphant pride.

The details given in this poem allow the reader to perceive what this experience must be like for the firefighter through sensory images. For instance, readers can smell the smoke-filled air, feel the blazing wind, and hear the tiring breaths. The portrait confirms the reality of what is expressed in the poem, showing the extent of the firefighter’s exhaustion. The rhyming format in this poem is natural and engaging for children. Although this poem is simple, the choice of words has a way of igniting the imagination.

This would be a great poem to share aloud without revealing the title and illustration until afterwards. Students could close their eyes as it is read in order to visualize as they listen, then make predictions supported by details about whose face is being described. Showing the illustrations after the predictions are made will allow students to make connections. This poem could help to introduce a lesson on fire safety or community helpers. It could also accompany a visit with firefighters from the local fire department.