Families who loved A Poke in the I: A Collection of Concrete Poems by Paul B. Janeczko often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
Reach for this book when you want to spark a love for language in a child who feels intimidated by blocks of text or who expresses themselves primarily through visual art. A Poke in the I is a vibrant anthology of concrete poetry, where the arrangement of letters and words on the page physically mimics the subject of the poem. From a bird taking flight to the crunch of an apple, these poems bridge the gap between reading and drawing, making literacy feel like a playful game rather than a chore. It is an ideal choice for elementary aged children to explore the relationship between form and meaning. By showcasing how words can be manipulated and designed, the book builds confidence in young writers and readers who might struggle with traditional structures. It invites curiosity and wonder, proving that poetry can be funny, approachable, and visually stunning.
