This quirky, kid-geared book of poems has appeal for students and teachers alike. The pages are filled with fun illustrations and silly poetry and tips for writing. There are explanations of the rhythm and beat of poetry and how to use it. The author provides plenty of advice on how to find a topic to write about and ideas to start writing with. There is even practical advice on how to prep for the poem like loosen lips, practice tounge flapping, and more!

"I Did it Because" came home with me today because I was hooked on the steps for poem prep. I went searching for poetry books that would make me an instant fan of poetry (which I am not) and decode the secret in them that everyone else seems to get. When I thumbed through this book and found the humor in loosen lips, and practice tounge flapping I knew this was going to be great. It is. I have to say my favorite poem out of this book is "What I'd Like to Know."

I would use this book in the classroom as a definite reference and support for learning to write poetry. I would like to try out the idea having the students come up with the beat first, and then putting words to the beat. This is also a great helper to generate writing ideas and journal entries as well. ( )