Children's Literature: Falling Up, by Shel Silverstein

Silverstein, Shel. Falling Up. New York: HarperCollins Publishing, 1996. Print.

Additional Information:

Poetry collection
Illustrated by Shel Silverstein

Synopsis: Falling Up is a popular collection of children's poems written and illustrated by the remarkable Shel Silverstein. The poems from Silverstein's books are widely known and loved by readers of all ages. This collection is brimming with silliness in the form of both short and long poems. Falling Up brings the reader into another world where anything can happen and is sure to bring joy and laughter to anyone who reads it.

Book Notes: The poems in Falling Up are generally quite short, but some can range to a page or two. Silverstein's rhythmic poetry flows easily when reading aloud or silently. The poems in this collection are whimsical and silly, making it perfect for any elementary classroom.

Featured Poem:

"Falling Up"

I tripped on my shoelace

And I fell up—

Up to the roof tops,

Up over the town,

Up past the tree tops,

Up over the mountains,

Up where the colors

Blend into the sounds.

But it got me so dizzy

When I looked around,

I got sick to my stomach

And I threw down.

Critique: It is difficult to find anyone who does not enjoy the writing of Shel Silverstein. Falling Up is perhaps one of his best known collections, and it brings excitement to listeners of all ages. This collection is a pleasure to read over and over again - it truly never gets old! It is a fabulous work to introduce children to poetry and demonstrate that not all poems need to be serious and emotional.

Classroom Activities: The poems in Falling Up can be used to introduce lessons, begin morning work, demonstrate rhythm and poetry elements, or just for entertainment during free time. Many children despise poetry, so Shel Silverstein is a great author to convince students that poetry can be fun and enjoyable. Poems are short, and students can practice writing their own poems that mimic Silverstein's form and style. Below are more classroom ideas.