Ego-Tripping is a collection of poems for young people that touches on everything from self-awareness to drug use. Nikki Giovanni finds moments in time, particularly black youth moments, that report on cultural issues. I chose this book because Nikki Giovanni is a world-renowned poet, writer, commentator, activist, and educator. She prides herself on being "a Black American, a daughter, a mother, a professor of English." Giovanni remains as determined and committed as ever to the fight for civil rights and equality. Her focus is on the individual, specifically, on the power one has to make a difference in oneself, and thus, in the lives of others.
This is a great book.The poetry had a heavy Afro-centric vibe to reflect the times they were created. At some point, the reader can relate to, or be inspired by one of the poems. I really enjoyed the artwork, it was very detailed. It makes the reader feel like you are seeing the poem come to life. Overall I thought this book was a good and fast read. I would definitely use this book when introducing poetry to a class. It could even be used in a history lesson.
I would not recommend this book for elementary readers and/or for an age under 13 due to the mature language several poems contain. I would recommend this book to a high school age group.
I would use some of the illustrations in the book and this excerpt from the poem " Ego-tripping" as a book hook to catch the attention of students, I think this would get their interest to read the book.
"I am so hip even my errors are correct
I sailed west to reach east and had to round off
the earth as I went
The hair from my head thinned and gold was laid
across three continents
I am so perfect so divine so ethereal so surreal
I cannot be comprehended except by my permission
I mean...I...can fly
like a bird in the sky"...
The poem you chose to share was beautiful and well, poetic. It makes me want to read the poetry myself. I think it would be good to share with all students, especially minority groups and inner city students.
ReplyDeleteNikki Giovanni is a wonderful poet. Please bring the book to class Wed. to share!
ReplyDeleteThe idea of having a poetry book that you could use with a history class is a neat idea. It would really show students poetry in a different setting. They are so used to it being in English classes, so this new variation may really draw them in to this genre.
ReplyDeleteI like the poem you shared here. I tend to prefer when illustrations are combined with poetry. I have read some of Nikki Giovanni's poems before and I have enjoyed her work.
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