Imagine by Juan Felipe Herrera

 

Title: Imagine

Genre: Poetry

Author: Juan Felipe Herrera

Illustration: Lauren Castillo

Major awards: N/A

Age group: K-4

Summary: 

This book is a beautifully written poem that describes the life of Juan Felipe Herrera. It begins by describing his humble beginnings. Herrera lived a simple life. When he entered school, he did not know English. However, he became fascinated with poetry. Throughout the poem, Herrera restates the phrase, "imagine" on each page. The illustrations show Herrera in different places in his life. Towards the end, you see Herrera surrounded by words from his poetry. On the final pages, we learn that his success has landed him in front of a crowd of people. Herrera was announced as the United States Poet Laureate.

Why would I use this book in the classroom: 

As a future educator, I'd use this book in my classroom to teach students about possibilities. We can be anything we want to be. With faith, hope, and imagination our dreams can become a reality. Juan Felipe Herrera's poem is inspirational. I think students will be inspired by his story. I'd also like to read this book to an ESL class. It is encouraging to see someone who looks or talks like you, achieve big things.

Appropriate grade level:

I think an appropriate grade level for this book is K-4. I love the meaning behind this book. I think young students need inspiration. The text structure is easy to follow, and the pictures will remind them of real life. 

Ideas for unit of study to include the book in and how you might use the book in the classroom:

• Language Arts/Art: I would use this book in an art lesson. I'd give students time, to close their eyes and imagine what they want to be when they grow up. I'd then have them create a painting, showing them where they want to be and who they want to be. They would then include a short poem describing their painting.