(2) K-3 Illustrated by E. B. Lewis. In "Song of Myself," Whitman defines the essence of his poetry: "I am the poet of the Body and I am the poet of the Soul." This picture-book biography covering Whitman's experiences during the Civil War introduces readers to that "Soul" by showcasing his deeply felt compassion. After traveling to Virginia to see his wounded brother, he is so affected by the plight of injured soldiers that he moves to Washington and takes a part-time job that allows him time to visit the many hospitalized war casualties, befriending them by writing letters, bringing treats, and just listening to their stories. Appropriately placed excerpts from his poetry, and a letter to his mother, underscore the deep connections between his words and his deeds. Whitman writes in Leaves of Grass: "And my heart, O my soldiers, my veterans, / My heart gives you love." Others are inspired by his actions to contribute both money and baked goods for these soldiers. Lewis's watercolor portraits of Whitman, staring at readers with his steady blue eyes, are nearly as realistic as the Mathew Brady photograph appended in the back matter. Hospital scenes are less detailed, while the battleground illustrations blunt the horrors of war, as Lewis displays a more impressionistic style. An author's note providing more details about Whitman and a bibliography conclude this fine book.

Reviewer: Betty Carter | Horn Book Magazine Issue: September, 2024

(2) YA Henstra uses the epistolary format with great success in this novel about the burgeoning romance between sophomore Jonathan Hopkirk ("Jo"), an openly gay poetry and music lover, and senior football star Adam Kurlansky ("Kurl"). Perhaps there's melodrama in this couple's beautiful love, and in how spectacularly it's challenged by devastating conflicts, but this is what makes the book such an epic, sweeping romance--and gay teens deserve more of those.

Reviewer: Katrina Hedeen | Horn Book Magazine Issue: July, 2019

(4) YA Voices in Poetry series. Illustrated by Rob Day. In these revised editions, excerpts from each poet's work alternate with biographical passages describing major influences or periods in the artist's life. The arty design calls attention to itself; every page is decorated with a photograph (in Shakespeare's case, a drawing) or a themed illustration: flowers for Dickinson, historical postal stamps for Hughes, leaves for Whitman, etc. The tiny type may put off some readers. Ind. Review covers these Voices in Poetry titles: E. E. Cummings, Emily Dickinson, Langston Hughes, William Shakespeare, Edgar Allan Poe, and Walt Whitman.

Reviewer: Megan Lynn Isaac

(2) YA Maneuvering the hazards of high school, abusive parents, a banished sister, and diminishing mental health proves exhausting for sixteen-year-old James. Though his circumstances are nothing to laugh at, James's wry sense of humor is one of his most charming coping mechanisms, and Roskos's strength lies in his relentless honesty about surviving with depression and anxiety.

Reviewer: Shara Hardeson | Horn Book Magazine Issue: March, 2013

(2) 4-6 Illustrated by Brian Selznick. This movingly illustrated picture book biography focuses on the Civil War years. In well-crafted prose, Kerley stresses the poet's love of words and his compassion for the common people. Selznick extends the text with glorious colored-pencil drawings. The quoted lines are carefully chosen, and more complete versions of the poems are included in the back matter. Bib.

Reviewer: Kathleen Isaacs | Horn Book Magazine Issue: November, 2004

(2) YA Meltzer's presentation of Whitman's life is interpretive rather than being a portrait of the man in the many stages of his life. By scrupulously analyzing the poet's work in relation to his various experiences, Meltzer offers unusual insight not only into the man but also into his times. Analysis of the poetry combined with lengthy excerpts provide a literary dimension. Photos and reproductions illustrate the book, and a chronology is appended. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Mary M. Burns | Horn Book Magazine Issue: September, 2002