Reviews

Joyful Noise: Poems for Two Voices by Paul Fleischman

jenmangler's review against another edition

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2.0

I love the idea of poems for two voices. Doing read alouds with a book like that would be a lot of fun, and it's a way into a discussion about how there can be different views of the same thing. But this book just doesn't do it for me. Perhaps it's the subject matter. I'm not a bug person, and I really don't want to read about or think about book lice. Ick! I did love the two voice poem about bees a lot, though. It's quite thought-provoking and beautiful. I chose to read this because it won the Newbery in 1989, and it's another example of a winner that I think goes over better with adults than with the kids it's supposed to be for. This isn't a book you would really read. The poems are to be read aloud and performed, and that's great, but if a middle grades student wouldn't want to pick it up and read it, I don't think it should win the Newbery.

sarknado's review

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adventurous funny informative lighthearted relaxing fast-paced

4.0

roseleaf24's review

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Medal Winner 1989

courtwj's review against another edition

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inspiring lighthearted reflective relaxing fast-paced

3.75

kimberlyjerger's review

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3.0

*3

1989 Newbery Medal

whatsmacksaid's review

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5.0

This was absolutely wonderful. I loved it, but I also didn't read it alone. These poems are meant to be read aloud with others. They're musical and delightful and I highly recommend it.

kraley's review

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4.0

These make great read-alouds for kids to practice in the hall together and then present in front of the class. They are neat to listen to.

sindri_inn_arsaeli's review

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5.0

I first found this book in middle school forensics, and I've just loved it, (and companion I Am Phoenix) ever since! The poetry is fun, and interesting for young readers, but also really good for the poetry, as well! There is an audio version of the two books together which is absolutely delightful, and is performed by an ensemble including several very talented children's voices along with the adults.

And for those who enjoy the style, there is a much more current picture book of multiple voice poetry about our solar system: The Day the Universe Exploded My Head! Also wonderful, and well worth picking up!

katherinechase's review

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5.0

A delightful jaunt through the insectarium via poetry from the perspective of the bugs and insects themselves. While lovely to read in solitude, it is magnificent when read aloud by two voices simultaneously, as it was intended. Highly recommend.

isaacmm43's review

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4.0

Reading 14 books without an interlude for poetry might be a record for me. It was a lovely return. Hopefully I won't wait as long next time.