Empty Beaches: Poems for Advanced Readers (Grades 5-7), Volume 1 (Funny-Bone-Tickling Children's Poetry) Paperback – Import, 8 November 2018

Empty Beaches is written so entertainingly well that my eleven year old daughter could not put the book down. The subject matter behind each poem resembles modern day activities in which my daughter, while reading and giggling at the same time, could easily relate to and understand. This book should be mandatory in the classroom since it makes learning about poetry so enjoyable that my daughter did not even realize she was learning about the various aspects of poetry. I praise the author not only for his entertaining creativity but for his explanations of the idioms, puns, and wordplays etc. contained in each individual poem. This aspect of the book is instrumental not only to learning about poetry, but clearly exemplifies a new trend in learning.

I am always on the lookout for smart and funny books for my 11 and 13 year olds to read. "Empty Beaches" by Brett Fleishman is definitely one of those books. Brett's lyrically rhyming poems allow readers to enjoy different journeys through his many titles, from the cheeky 'Mr. Exaggeration' to the heart warming 'Brave'. Don't tell the kids, but his clever use and hallmark style of using puns and idioms will give them great exposure to these important expressions. He even adds an appendix that explains the how, when, and why they in a very relatable way. This book is definitely going to be on my holiday gift giving list!

I was a little skeptical initially since my 6th grader is not much of a reader and has never shown an interest in poetry. But I bought it anyway, on a friend's recommendation, and my son was hooked from the first poem. The word plays in this book are really clever, and the author explains what every pun and idiom means at the end of the book, which is such a smart way to educate children. It's like a built-in lesson plan. I'd have to think teachers would love this book! Also, the Zany Word Blenders are really fun games. I'd highly recommend this book to anyone who has kids in middle school.

A friend recommended this as a gift for my nephew. The poems make heavy use of puns and idioms, so while my nephew may not get everything, my brother will enjoy reading these with him, as well. (There is a handy appendix that explains some of the finer points my nephew may miss.) My favorites included Empty Beaches and Brave, and I thought the Word Blenders were great. All in, a book of fun poems that were made to read out loud. Highly recommended.

My daughter (15) and older son (13) truly enjoyed reading these poems. They were drawn in by the witty humor and elegant use of words and puns. The Word Blenders are entertaining, and the detailed illustrations help bring the poems to life. This is a terrific book for kids -- and for parents who want their kids to develop an appreciation for poems and the art of writing. A perfect gift for the holidays!