Dogku

by: Andrew Clements
Illustrated by: Tim Bowers
Ages: 4-8

Introducing the idea of "poems" to kids can be overwhelming at times. Especially specific types of poems that are structured a certian way and are read a specific way. Dogku is an adorable take on Haiku poems and does a great job of taking a poem structure and making it accessible to children when Haikus in general can be overwhelming. Looking at poems in a less traditional way make them easier to teach and break down for students. The story follows an adorable puppy who needs a home, thoughout the story (in great Haiku form!) the family he stays with decides to keep him. Hopefully after reading this, students will try out Haiku poems in their own way - much like Clements did with "Dogku."