Out of Wonder: Poems Celebrating Poets

It’s hard to imagine a more fitting read for National Poetry Month than Out of Wonder: Poems Celebrating Poets. Alexander, Colderley, and Wentworth have crafted a stunning tribute to the power of poetry and the poets who have shaped our world. Each poem seamlessly weaves the authors' voices with those of history's most celebrated poets, creating original pieces inspired by their signature styles or recurring themes—the star-studded lineup, spanning centuries and continents, includes Gwendolyn Brooks, Mary Oliver, Rumi, Langston Hughes, Emily Dickinson, Maya Angelou, and many more. Accompanied by vibrant mixed-media illustrations by Ekua Holmes, every page is a feast for the eyes and ears, showcasing how even the smallest poem can carry immense beauty and emotional depth.

Ideal for readers of all ages, Out of Wonder nurtures a love for language while celebrating the diversity of poetic expression and imagination. In his introduction, Alexander shares that the book’s title was inspired by a quote from the prolific poet Lucille Clifton: “Poems come out of wonder, not out of knowing.” Poetry requires a fierce curiosity—a willingness to listen to the world and let it open up around you. Alexander continues, “A poem is a small but powerful thing. It has the power to reach inside of you, ignite something within, and change you in ways you never imagined.” 

Happy National Poetry Month! May you revel in the wonder of words and be forever changed by the poems you encounter.