29 Nov Finding Poetry in Pawprints: A Review of Love That Dog
A Journey of Words: A Personal Reflection on Love That Dog by Sharon Creech
From the moment I cracked open Sharon Creech’s Love That Dog, I was enchanted—not just by the story, but also by the sheer power of poetry to convey emotion and connection. As someone who has always loved the written word, I found myself rooting for Jack, our reluctant young poet, who starts off with a staunch aversion to poetry and unwittingly finds his voice through the pages of this beautifully crafted book.
The narrative follows Jack, a fourth-grader who firmly believes that poetry is "for girls." His struggle is relatable, even humorous, as he navigates the pressures of school and expresses his profound feelings about his beloved dog, Sky. Set against the backdrop of a supportive teacher, Miss Stretchberry, Jack’s journey unfolds like an intricate tapestry woven with heartfelt explorations of grief, love, and self-discovery.
What stood out for me was Creech’s ability to use free verse to encapsulate Jack’s emotional landscape. Each poem in the book reflects different stages of Jack’s growth and his evolving relationship with poetry. I was particularly touched by the quote, "I guess it does look like a poem when you see it typed up like that," which encapsulates the turning point in Jack’s self-acceptance. He moves from a place of doubt to one of celebration, not just of poetry, but of his own vulnerabilities and voice.
The pacing of the book feels just right—it’s not rushed, allowing readers to linger on Jack’s experiences. I admired how Creech effortlessly weaves in classic poems at the back of the book, providing a bridge between Jack’s story and the broader world of poetry. It serves as a gentle nudge for young readers to explore their imaginations and perhaps even pick up a pen themselves—a feat I celebrated wholeheartedly as I recalled my own youthful attempts at poetry.
Moreover, the tender relationship Jack shares with Sky adds depth to the narrative. Sky is not just a pet; he symbolizes love and loss, familiar yet heart-wrenching. I found myself tearing up at moments, reflecting on my own cherished memories with my four-legged companions. Reviews from parents and educators, many of whom shared the impact this book had on their children, confirmed the emotional resonance I’d experienced.
In sum, Love That Dog is not merely a children’s book about poetry; it’s an invitation. An invitation to explore expression, confront feelings, and embrace the beauty of our stories—an experience I believe every child (and adult!) can benefit from. I’d recommend this book to parents seeking to instill a love of reading in their children or teachers wanting to introduce poetry in a non-threatening, engaging way.
Ultimately, reading Love That Dog helped rekindle my own appreciation for poetry. It reminded me of the poignant power of words and the simple truth that everyone has a voice worth hearing. And in a world that often feels chaotic, what could be more essential than that?
You can find Love That Dog here >>
