Reviewed by:Norlan
De Groot Key words: Poetry, Modern
Work
Recommended Reading Level:
Grades 2, 3, 4
Theme: Children’s worries
are real.
Summary: This is a book
of over 40 poems. They all have to do with children's concerns: fear of
the dark, pets, relationships with other children and others. Each poem
deals with serious subjects, but in a humorous way.
Strengths: 1) Viorst’s humor
is evident in every poem. 2) No worry, no matter how large or small is
rejected.
Weaknesses: The concerns
are discussed but no solutions are given. This is more of a problem on
some issues than others. For example, in one poem, the divorce of a friend’s
parents is mentioned, but nothing more is said.
Other Notes: This is a good
book to read with your children. Hopefully, you will have answers that
the book doesn’t give.
Viorst,
Judith. If I Were in Charge of the World and Other Worries: Poems for
Children and their Parents. New York: Aladdin, 1987.