Author SPLOTLight: Shel Silverstein

Shel-ing Out The Goods

There exists a writer whose poems contain wild and crazy topics such as a girl who eats a whale, a boy name Sue, a crocodile's toothache, and advice on how NOT to dry the dishes. This writer doesn't compose poems about love and other mushy topics, but rather he creates poems of ridiculous and hilarious nonsensical substance. Just a glance at one of his poems, and you can be sure you'll laugh! Who is this author? I could only be talking about the infamous writer and poet, Shel Silverstein!

Though Silverstein's works have been around for many decades, his poetry and writings continue to be relatable at any age. My personal favorite collection of his is also the best-selling children's poetry book of all time: Where The Sidewalk Ends. This timeless classic includes such spectacular and silly poems as:                                          "Melinda Mae," "Jimmy Jet and His TV Set," "Ickle Me, Pickle Me, Tickle Me                                       Too," and many more!

However, the following poem, "For Sale," from Where The Sidewalk Ends remains a favorite of mine. (In my case, I just substitute the word "brother.")

For Sale

One sister for sale!
One sister for sale!
One crying and spying young sister for sale!
I'm really not kidding,
So who'll start the bidding?
Do I hear a dollar?
A nickel?
A penny?
Oh, isn't there, isn't there, isn't there any
One kid who will buy this old sister for sale,
This crying and spying young sister for sale?

If you like this poem, check out the rest of Silverstein's writing. In addition to Where The Sidewalk Ends, you may have also heard of another poetry collection of his: A Light in the Attic.

With topics ranging from messy rooms to weird birds to a one-inch-tall man, you'll certainly be able to find at least one applicable poem — or at the very least, just a good time!

— Carly M., STACKS Staffer

Comments

[Comment #1]

I first read those books in 3rd grade and still love them to this day!

[Comment #2]

I love this book I read it to my kids now!! One of the best poem books ever!!