Poetry: Doodle Dandies: Poems That Take Shape by J. Patrick Lewis

Lewis, J. Patrick. 1998. Doodle Dandies: Poems That Take Shape. Ill. by Lisa Desimini. New York: Athenum Books for Young Readers. ISBN 068981075X

Summary

Doodle Dandies: Poems That Take Shape is an entertaining and innovative collection of nineteen poem written within the shapes of the objects described. Tigers and giraffes are represented, along with weeping willows, umbrellas, mirrors, and a synchronized swimming team, to name a few. Lisa Desimini’s creative illustrations play a critical role in the story that is told within each verse.

Analysis

In this individual poet compilation, J. Patrick Lewis transfixes the reader with his ingenious approach to poetry. Each poem is written in a shape relevant to the main idea. Desimini’s mixed media illustrations are enjoyable and pleasing to the eye. They give real meaning to each poem and fit perfectly with Lewis’ extraordinary language. Each poem possesses different elements of poetry.

Rhythm and rhyme vary from poem to poem. Some follow a free verse format, while others appear lyrical. In the umbrella poem, a distinct rhythm is detected, with rhyming words on the end beats. In the butterfly poem, a single line is written, no rhyme or rhythm involved.

Assonance is an important factor in the poem about basketball, but only because of the need for an ‘O’ shape, not necessarily for the vowel repetition. The poem is illustrated in a rainbow-like arc, each line including one word with the letter ‘O’, but with a basketball drawn instead of the letter. The vowel sounds differ throughout the poem, therefore, assonance isn't in its true form.

The language within each poem is arranged in vivid meaningful ways, mostly due to the shape it is taking. The words themselves, however, are just as moving.  In “Weeping Willow”, the words are arranged in the shape of the weeping willow tree, while conveying sorrow through the words:  “In the far field of sadness stands the wee widow weeping.”

The imagery in Doodle Dandies is not limited to the illustrations. In “First Burst of Spring”, the author arranged the last word vertically to help us understand how hard the bud is trying to grow… “The day is cold, the earth is mud, but don’t let anything stop you, bud!” The poem about the dachshund does not show an actual picture of the dog, but uses the simile “like a sausage on a string” to help the reader visualize the animal.

Each poem expresses a different emotion. The reader feels hopeful for the bud trying to grow, sad for the weeping widow, and excited to see the synchronized swimmers. The reader can unquestionably derive a natural emotion as a response to each poem. Overall, readers can emanate enjoyment and appreciation for Lewis and Desimini’s ingenuity!

Personal Response

Doodle Dandies is one of the most creative poetry books I have encountered! I was impressed with each verse and illustration. Fascination struck me with each and every turn of the page!

Reviews

“From endpaper to doodled endpaper, this mix of clever language and visual delights makes a dandy treat for all ages.”-Publishers Weekly

Connections

After reading Doodle Dandies, the teacher or librarian can challenge students to come up with their own person, animal, or object, write a poem about it, and arrange the words into the shape. Each individual can contribute their shape poem to a class compilation.

Roemer, Heidi. 2004. Come To My Party and Other Shape Poems. New York: Henry Holt and Co. ISBN 9780805066203