Teachers and librarians will find this one-volume reference guide an indispensable tool for identifying anthologies and poem collections that have particular appeal to young adult readers. Comprised of two main components, this resource features an annotated bibliography of 198 poetry volumes, and a thematic guide to over 6,000 individual poems. The carefully chosen anthologies and collections span reading levels from sixth to twelfth grade, and a tremendous breath of interest areas. Poets whose works are cited range from the classic to the contemporary, cover a broad ethnic and geographic spectrum, and range in style from humorous to tragic, rap to blues, free verse to rhymes, and limericks to haiku.

This survey of young adult poetry represents a careful selection and evaluation process undertaken by the authors in consultation with classroom teachers. The annotations help users identify themes in the works, grade level appropriateness, as well as format and content in the poetry collections and anthologies. The authors offer helpful suggestions for ways that these poetry works may be used in the English classroom and beyond; for igniting creative sparks with young writers, for science and social studies discussion, counseling sessions, and for sheer enjoyment. Librarians will value this well-organized resource as both a collection development tool, and--with its index of writers and titles and extensive theme guide--as a way of connecting young readers to wonderful poetry.

With thousands of new volumes lining the shelves of bookstores, abundant advertisements, and innumerable online reviews, it is becoming increasingly difficulty for the concerned adult to recommend literature that is of quality, yet speaks to young audiences. Core Collection for Children and Young Adults presents the best in contemporary and classic literature for children and young adults. Every book listed in this reference has a concisely worded annotation, which is followed by headings designating awards the book has won, related subjects, and character themes. With more than 350 titles reviewed, this resource will prove invaluable for teachers, librarians, parents, collectors of children's books, and college students with an interest in juvenile literature, education, or child growth and development.