Product Description

Rhythm is something we share in common, you and I, with all the plants and animals and people in the world, and with the stars and moon and sun, and all the whole vast wonderful universe beyond this wonderful earth which is our home."
In this beautifully designed book, Langston Hughes shares an appreciation of the rhythms of life--from visual patterns that catch the eye to rhythms in nature like the beating of a human heart, the pulse of the ocean, and the turning of the planets.
With the keen eye of an artist and the perception of a poet, Hughes finds the seeds of rhythm in the slow flowing of the Mississippi River, the even slap-slap-slap of a jump rope, the swoop of a swing, and the steadiness of Grandma's rocking. He relishes the rhythms of nature in the opening of a many petaled rose or the intricacy of a snowflake.
He calls up images and offers examples even the youngest reader will understand--clapping the rhythm of a favorite song, scrutinizing the lines and wrinkles of our hands, even examining the dining room chairs for "charming and graceful rhythms."
Originally published in 1954, this new edition offers original illustrations, an introduction by musician Wynton Marsalis, and an afterword by Hughes scholar Robert G. O'Meally. Read it aloud to the youngest children as they become aware of the diversity of the world. Older children will delight in the varied and offbeat exercises and examples, and all ages will be touched by Hughes's zest for rhythm and for life itself.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #2086304 in Books
• Published on: 2000-12-21
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 64 pages

Review
Jazz performer Wynton Marsalis provides the introduction to this lyrical examination of rhythm and human experience. Poet Hughes provides strong insights on the rhythms of music, celebration, and human existence: while his ideas are advanced for many kids, adults will find this an excellent coverage which the entire family can enjoy together. -- Midwest Book Review

Review

"Hughes starts small, using such simple techniques as drawing a squiggly line to explain the patterns in rhythm, and before long he uncovers the beat in the machines we use, in the poetry we read, and in the sports we play. The unobtrusive cartoon drawings, by Matt Wawiorka, are like illustrations of key points on a chalkboard."--The New Yorker
"A lyrical examination of rhythm and human experience.... An excellent coverage which the entire family can enjoy together."--Children's Bookwatch
"Readers of all ages will be touched by Hughes' poetry and verse."--SchoolArts
"Rhythm is discussed with a poet's sensitivity and metaphor."--Jazz Times
"This primer in rhythms is still to the beat.... Recommended."--The Reader's Review

About the Author

Langston Hughes (1902-1967) was one of the most versatile writers of the artistic movement known as the Harlem Renaissance.

Customer Reviews

The Book of Rhythms
The Book of Rhythms is a wonderful book that teaches children how to create their own poems. It begins by teaching children how to create their own rhythm by drawing a pattern on a piece of paper. Then it goes on to describe some of the different rhythms you hear everyday, such as your own heartbeat. Hughes then teaches children how to vary their rhythms and how to put words to the rhythm the reader has created. Towards the end, the author tells you about all the different rhythms such as broken or unseen rhythms.
This book serves as a great source for teaching children how to compose their own poems. The author is very qualified to write on this subject, since he is such a renowned poet. The book is neatly organized with clear appropriate headings and helpful illustrations that allow the reader to visualize the author's point. The language is vivid and interesting, yet easy enough for even very young readers to understand and enjoy.
In conclusion, Hughes' Book of Rhythms is a great book introducing children to poetry composition. With interesting vocabulary and illustrations, it is enough to keep any reader's attention. This book serves as a great teaching tool for any elementary aged child.