Review of POEMS TO DREAM TOGETHER=POEMAS PARA SOÑAR JUNTOS

Alarcón, Francisco X. Paula Barragán. (Ill.) 2005. POEMS TO DREAM TOGETHER=POEMAS PARA SOÑAR JUNTOS. New York: Lee & Low Books Inc. ISBN 1-58430-233-X

This individual poet compilation “celebrates the connections children share with their families, communities, and all living things.” In the book’s preface, Alarcón relates that he grew up in California and Mexico, thus explaining why he wrote the poems in both Spanish and English. The fact that the author himself wrote each piece in both languages, gives lingual authenticity to the poetry. Creating a dual language collection of poetry likely necessitated Alarcón’s use of narrative and free verse styles. These poems range from mildly esoteric to easily accessible. In Waking Dream, Alarcón reflects, “when I dream I’m dreaming I’m about to wake up.” Adobes is a more concrete poem about homes. “Adobe bricks that townsfolk made from mud and straw and spread to dry out in the sun like some really big chocolate bars….” While elements such as rhyme, alliteration, and onomatopoeia are not employed; this collection is teeming with imagery, emotion, personification and eloquent language use. My favorite poem in this collection is In My Dreams. Alarcón tells of his dream of a harmonious Earth wherein “buffaloes roam free,” “there is no word for ‘war’,” and “all living beings come together as one big family.” However, Dreamer of the Fields ~to César Chávez would be enhanced by the inclusion of an author’s note providing background information on the revolutionary activist.

This dual language poetry collection is adorned with bright illustrations using pencil, cut paper, and gouache and is recommended for poetry enthusiasts ages 4-10.