16 Jun Book Review of Dino Poet: A Graphic Novel
Dino Poet: A Graphic Novel by Tom Angleberger – A Playful Journey into Poetry
When I first stumbled upon Tom Angleberger’s Dino Poet: A Graphic Novel, I was instantly captivated by the idea of dinosaurs and poetry colliding in such a whimsical way. As someone who often finds solace in the written word, the thought of a dino grappling with the art of poetry was an irresistible hook. Angleberger, known for his playful storytelling and vibrant illustrations, had me intrigued before I even turned the first page.
Dino Poet follows our dinosaur protagonist as he sets out to write a poem about Frog. However, Frog is not having it! He challenges the Dinosaur on both the subject matter and the overly flowery language, humorously reminding us that true emotions, not just rhymes, create the heart of poetry. This setting sparks a delightful dialogue between the characters, serving not only as a narrative but as a mini-masterclass in creative writing. The beauty of Frog’s role throughout the adventure lies in his insistence that poetry should be genuine. He encourages the Dinosaur to convey real feelings instead of superficial rhymes – a message that resonates with anyone who has ever attempted to pour their heart into words.
One of the most engaging elements for me was the way the chapters unfold around various dinosaur-themed mischief, highlighted by Angleberger’s exuberant illustrations reminiscent of The Two-Headed Chicken. The art is not just a visual treat; it’s integral to the storytelling, amplifying the humorous tone and quirky scenarios the characters find themselves in. From searching for the elusive “pen tree” to crafting “poo-etry,” the comedic situations are immersive and entertaining, reminding readers that writing doesn’t always have to be serious—it can be downright silly!
The pacing of the narrative strikes an easy rhythm, blending action with reflection. Each chapter introduces a new dinosaur, some with exaggerated quirks that invite giggles, keeping the reading light-hearted. I found myself enjoying the fact that while it isn’t a heavy-handed poetry manual, it introduces young readers to concepts in an organic, enjoyable way. Ideal for budding poets or even those just dipping their toes into the world of creative writing!
However, the audience for this book is a bit murky for me. While its youthful whimsy may appeal to younger elementary kids, it feels a tad too simplistic for those familiar with Angleberger’s Origami Yoda series. Perhaps its best use might be in a classroom setting, where teachers can employ it to inspire poetry units, showing students that verse can arise from the most unexpected places.
At the end of it all, Dino Poet echoes life lessons akin to Dav Pilkey’s Cat Kid Comics, offering humor while gently guiding young minds toward creativity. It may not serve as a poetic style guide, but it does extend an inviting hand to our future poets, making the world of verse feel accessible and fun.
In conclusion, if you have a young reader who shows even a flicker of interest in poetry or storytelling, or if you’re an educator looking for a fun way to introduce writing, Dino Poet is a charming addition to your collection. For me, it was a delightful reminder that creativity can thrive, even in the most chaotic of imaginations. Plus, who wouldn’t love to take a poetic adventure with a dino? What a unique way to fall in love with writing!
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