Jane Yolen's Emily Writes is an imagined and evocative picture book account of Emily Dickinson's childhood poetic beginnings, featuring illustrations by Christine Davenier.
As a young girl, Emily Dickinson loved to scribble curlicues and circles, imagine new rhymes, and connect with the natural world around her. The sounds, sights, and smells of home swirled through her mind, and Emily began to explore writing and rhyming her thoughts and impressions. She thinks about the real and the unreal. Perhaps poems are the in-between.
This thoughtful spotlight on Emily's early experimentations with poetry offers a unique window into one of the world's most famous and influential poets.
"The imagined events of one day in the early life of Emily Dickinson foreshadow her future creations. The text moves along smoothly with plenty of appealing turns of phrase and engaging images. A warm portrait that even those unfamiliar with the iconic poet will likely enjoy."
Kirkus Reviews
"Yolen's love of language and her knowledge of the poet's life and work as well as her understanding of young children. . . An imaginative portrayal of the poet as a young child."
Booklist
"Davenier's ink and watercolor illustrations capture a sunny, spirited moppet whose outdoor world is rife with inspiration . . . Winningly portrays a young writer who appreciates approbation but takes genuine, confident delight in her own accomplishment."
