In this slim volume of 51 poems penned by Robert Frost, with a foreword by Hyde Cox and wood engravings by Thomas W. Nosan, one can observe a distinct theme. Though most of the poems incorporate people, they are all centered around things that grow. Moreover, many of them are about and for “people that grow” – children.

This collection of clever, observant, and compassionate poems, carefully selected by Frost himself for young readers, is recommended for Grades 6 - 8. However, I would suggest that these poems are meant to be read to and by readers of any age. The book is dedicated to his mother, Belle Moodie Frost, with the inscription “…who knew as a teacher that no poetry was good for children that wasn't equally good for their elders.” Frost clearly chose these particular poems to offer a diverse range for the young reader, treating them with respect and without condescension, as if they were adults.

If you are already acquainted with Frost, the only four-time Pulitzer Prize winner for poetry, then you will be delighted to know that this collection includes some old favorites such as Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening; Fire and Ice; and The Mending Wall.

Robert Frost regarded both the writing and reading of a poem as “little voyages of discovery.” With this volume, he is extending an invitation for YOU TO COME TOO and embark on these literary voyages.

Robert Frost is, without a doubt, my all-time favorite poet.

There are two principal reasons for this profound admiration. Firstly, his consistent utilization of colloquial language throughout his poems is truly remarkable. It gives his works a sense of authenticity and relatability, making them accessible to a wide range of readers.

Secondly, his precise and vivid descriptions of nature are simply breathtaking. He has an uncanny ability to capture the essence and beauty of the natural world, allowing readers to envision and experience it through his words.

I am constantly striving to be able to perceive and identify nature in the same way that Frost does. I hope that my readers will be able to identify with the things I write about, that they will be able to establish a connection and relate to the emotions and ideas I convey. And one effective way of achieving this is by emulating Frost's use of colloquial language.

By doing so, I believe I can make my writing more engaging, more understandable, and more likely to resonate with the hearts and minds of my readers.

This is an outstanding collection that is designed to introduce readers of every age group to the works of Frost.

It encompasses a significant number of his most renowned and beloved poems. By including these masterpieces, it becomes possible for people of all walks of life and different age brackets to access and understand Frost's poetry.

Whether you are a young student just beginning to explore the world of literature or an older individual with a deep appreciation for the written word, this collection has something to offer.

It provides a wonderful opportunity to discover the beauty and depth of Frost's poetry, making it accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

Love anything by my boy, Robert!

Robert is such a special and wonderful child. He has a heart full of love and kindness. Everything he does is filled with his unique charm and enthusiasm. Whether it's a simple drawing he creates, a song he sings, or a story he tells, it all reflects his pure and innocent soul.

When I see the things that Robert loves, it's like seeing a part of him. It makes me feel so proud and happy. His loves are like little treasures that bring warmth and joy to our lives.

I cherish every moment with Robert and his loves. I encourage him to explore and pursue his interests, knowing that each one will contribute to his growth and development.

Love anything by my boy, Robert, because it's all a part of who he is, and it's truly a beautiful thing.

Who am I to say I don't love Robert Frost? I truly liked some of his poems very much. However, as I was reading, I couldn't help but constantly think about how "American" they sounded - pragmatic and almost painfully sparse.

Yet, when we look at Emily Dickinson, another American poet and the queen of spartan poetry, she managed to inject playful and glittering language into her poems.

I have read a great deal of poetry, so I am accustomed to more joyous wordplay, like "Tis brillig and the slithy toves did gyre and gimble in the wabe." Or the sheer beauty of lines such as "The world is charged with the grandeur of God, it will flame out like shining from shook foil."

Consequently, the last stanza of "A Nature Note" (below) was rather hard for me to appreciate.

(regarding the whippoorwills singing)
I took note of when it occurred,
The twenty-third of September,
Their latest that I remember,
September the twenty-third.

Perhaps it's because my expectations were set by other styles of poetry that I found this particular stanza lacking in the elements that usually draw me in.

But then again, Frost's simplicity and directness might have their own charm that I have yet to fully understand and embrace.

Maybe with more time and a different perspective, I will come to appreciate his work in a whole new light.

Robert Frost had a highly prolific career, and these selections are truly excellent. They were not randomly picked but rather carefully chosen and arranged by Frost himself.
Each poem in this collection represents a unique aspect of Frost's genius. Some of them explore the beauty and harshness of nature, while others delve into the complex emotions and thoughts of the human heart.
Frost's use of language is masterful, with his simple yet profound words painting vivid pictures in the reader's mind. The rhythm and meter of his poems add to their musicality, making them a joy to read aloud.
These carefully curated selections offer a wonderful introduction to Frost's work for those who are new to his poetry, as well as a deeper exploration for his long-time fans. They are a testament to Frost's status as one of the greatest poets of the 20th century.

What I like about this book is that it is a beautiful book to read.

The poems within it are truly powerful. They have the ability to touch the deepest recesses of our emotions and transport us to different worlds.

Each poem seems to have its own unique voice, expressing a range of feelings from joy and love to sadness and longing.

The language used is vivid and descriptive, painting pictures in our minds and making us feel as if we are right there experiencing the emotions along with the poet.

Whether you are a poetry lover or just someone looking for a good read, this book is sure to captivate you and leave you with a sense of wonder and inspiration.

It is a book that you can pick up again and again, and each time you will discover something new and beautiful within its pages.

So, if you haven't already, I highly recommend giving this book a chance and experiencing the power of its poems for yourself.

I truly relished these poems.

Even though I am aware that they were specifically selected for young readers, I firmly believe that they are equally wonderful for an individual like myself, who has not delved deeply into the world of poetry.

They are simple and uncomplicated, yet at the same time, they possess a certain beauty.

Some of the poems tell a story that one can easily follow, which engages the reader's imagination.

Others make one stop and think, provoking deep thoughts and reflections.

Overall, I find these poems to be truly great and a source of joy and inspiration.

I look forward to exploring more poetry in the future and expanding my literary horizons.

I have a deep affection for my favorite things. However, on this occasion, I didn't come across any new favorites. In this volume, there are numerous poems that failed to strike a chord with me. Nevertheless, the ones that did resonate with me are so dear to my heart that I am willing to rate the entire collection four stars.

The most wonderful aspect of this collection is the opportunity to revisit the poems that I love but had temporarily forgotten. It is truly enjoyable to discover how much I can recall of those poems that I thought I had completely forgotten.

It is as if these forgotten poems are old friends who suddenly reappear, bringing back a flood of memories and emotions. Through this process, I realize the power of poetry to touch our souls and leave a lasting impression. Even those poems that didn't resonate with me initially may hold hidden treasures that I will discover upon further exploration.

Overall, this collection has been a delightful journey of rediscovery and a reminder of the beauty and significance of poetry in our lives.

I had this book in my classroom for quite some time.

During lunch breaks, when I forgot to bring another book, I would occasionally pick it up and read.

Today, I finally finished it. I must admit that "The Road Less Taken" gives me a very distinct and meaningful feeling.

It makes me think about our life choices and how we often view decisions in a certain way, but in reality, each moment is a branching point.

However, it should be noted that many of the other poems in the book were either inaccessible to me or belonged to a time that I couldn't really relate to.

Perhaps this is because of the differences in the cultural and historical background of the author and myself.

Nonetheless, "The Road Less Taken" alone has made this reading experience worthwhile.

It has made me reflect on my own life and the choices I have made, and has given me a new perspective on the importance of each decision.

I will definitely keep this book and read it again in the future.

My Favorites

I have several favorites in different aspects. When it comes to fruits, blueberries are my absolute favorite. Their small, round shape and deep blue color are not only visually appealing but also hint at their delicious taste. The sweet and tangy flavor of blueberries is simply irresistible.

In the world of literature, I have a soft spot for several poems. "Stopping By Woods" by Robert Frost is one of them. The poem creates a peaceful and enchanting atmosphere as the narrator stops to observe the beautiful woods. The imagery and the rhythm of the poem make it a joy to read.

"Birches" is another favorite poem of mine. Frost's description of the birch trees bending and swaying in the wind is so vivid that it makes me feel as if I am right there in the forest. The poem also explores themes of youth, imagination, and the longing for a simpler time.

Finally, "The Road Not Taken" is a classic poem that always makes me think. The decision the narrator has to make between two paths represents the choices we all face in life. This poem reminds me that every choice we make can lead to a different outcome and that we should be brave enough to take the road less traveled.

This is now the 3rd time that I have read this book.

Each time I pick it up, I am amazed by how much more I discover and how much deeper my understanding becomes.

I can honestly say that it gets better every single time.

The words seem to dance off the page, captivating my heart and soul.

After much reflection, I have officially decided that this is my all-time favorite poetry book.

It has a special place in my heart and will always be a source of inspiration and comfort.

The beautiful imagery, the profound emotions, and the masterful use of language make it a true masterpiece.

I can't wait to read it again and again, uncovering new treasures with each reading.

This book has truly touched my life and I am grateful to have discovered it.