Grandits, John. 2007. Blue Lipstick: Concrete Poems. New York: Clarion Books. ISBN: 978-0618568604.
All the poems found in John Grandits' book of Concrete Poems revolve around one central character named Jessie. The poems are very unique and clever, while also being relevant for children ages 11 and up. The very first poem from Blue Lipstick will draw the reader in, and compel them to read on immediately. I have provided an image of the poem below in order to give the full effect of the poem.
Blue Lipstick: Concrete Poems. Source: Grandits, p. 1 (2007)
Stupor Farms
2%
AWAKE
Jessie,
wake up!
Eat your cereal.
What's wrong with you?
You look totally out of it.
Didn't you sleep well last night?
MISSING Have you seen Jessie's brain?
LAST SEEN: 2:45 this morning.
LAST KNOWN ACTIVITY: Staying up all night instant-messaging Lisa.
If you find this missing brain, contact Jessie immediately!
The most interesting component of this poem is the use of an already-formed, strategically placed picture/object (i.e. milk carton) on the page used as a vehicle for the text to help convey its mini story. This helps give it a dramatic edge.
Extension
Have students draw or cut out a shape. Then, have them write words/phrases or sentences on their picture which describe their shape or relate to it in some way. Allow them to share with eachother and/or post them up in the classroom or library.
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