Each book in this series contains about a dozen poets in chapters arranged chronologically by the poetÆs birth date. Chapters begin with a brief bio and then contain a sample poem or two, summary and explication of the poems, discussion of poetic techniques and theme, and a comment on what critics say about the poet. Modern American Poetry includes familiar poets such as Robert Frost, T. S. Eliot, and Langston Hughes, as well as lesser-known poets such as H. D. and Louise Bogan. Early American Poetry includes Phillis Wheatley, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, Oliver Wendell Holmes, Edgar Allan Poe, Henry David Thoreau, Walt Whitman, and Emily Dickinson. This particular book discusses what is going on historically and how the poet connected with people and events of the time, making it an excellent book to use to connect literature and history. The interesting introductions explain the type of poetry popular at the time covered in the book and examine the influences that affected the poets, such as the effect of modern art on modern poetry. Each chapter contains an image of the poet and sometimes art or a picture that goes with a poem. Sidebars labeled ôFactsö explain poetic devices or information about the poet or the time. Facts in Early American Poetry include what Romanticism is, an explanation of poetic meter and rhyme scheme, and information about Emily DickinsonÆs correspondence. The writing is conversational but intelligent. Familiar and new poetic vocabulary, such as alliteration, symbolism, and allusion, are discussed with understandable definitions and examples from the poems. Each chapter leaves the reader with a greater understanding of poetry in general and with a desire to find more work by the poet discussed. These books would be great supplemental texts for teachers in grades eight through twelve who teach poetry and will look forward to the next three volumes in the spring: Contemporary American Poetry, Modern British Poetry, and World Poetry.ùCindy Faug

This series explores American and British poetry of different periods, focusing on major poets of the times. Short biographical sketches (including some photographs), notable works, and the significance of the poets' writings are explored. The texts are clear and informative. Analysis is particularly engaging, making the books useful for drawing high school students into the study of poetry. Reading list, websites. Glos., ind.