LS 5603 Knock on Wood

Wong, Janet S. Knock on Wood: Poems About Superstitions. Ill. Julie Paschikis. New York: Margaret K. McElderry Books, 2003.

ISBN: 0-689-85512-5

In this book of poetry there are seventeen verses about superstitions, some well-known and some not so well-known. Some of the familiar ones are about cats, wood, ladders, and umbrellas. Some that may not be as familiar with are on ears, hair, keys, and ladybugs. Illustrations by Julie Paschikis bring great visual cues to each superstition depicted. A glossary at the end further explains the roots of the superstitions featured.

The poems are a delightful learning experience. I enjoyed learning about the lesser known superstitions and I appreciated the detail of the illustrations. Though the poems would do fine if read aloud for children, this book would make a great sharing book with parent/child or teacher/child because the illustrations are so detailed oriented to the poetry. Picking out the elements of the superstitions in the art was a fun as reading the poems!

The December 2003 issue of School Library Journal states Knock on Wood has “much to ponder in both words and pictures. Some of the children depicted suggest a young audience, but the mixed poetic/visual brew is sophisticated.” Children may enjoy other subject-driven poetry if they enjoyed this book. They may try Autumnblings: Poems and Paintings by Douglas Florian, Beware, Take Care: Fun and Spooky Poems by Lilian Moore, or Central Heating: Poems About Fire and Warmth by Marilyn Singer.