If memory serves me correctly, I first learned of Nikki Grimes’ work when I bought this book, Words with Wings, at the recommendation of a colleague who knew of my passion for poetry and novels in verse. I brought it home with me this summer for inspiration for writing my own novel-in-verse. Who knows if that will come to fruition, but when I opened the book, this is what I saw:
How’s that for messages from the universe?
Today, Poetry Friday is celebrating Nikki Grimes. I’ve had the privilege to see her at NCTE a few times. Last year, I sat at her table for the Children’s Literature Luncheon where each one of us received a singed copy of Ordinary Hazards, her memoir in verse. I’ve read and listened to this book and have used it as inspiration for my students, too.
I use Nikki’s poetry time and time again to inspire writing with my students. In Words with Wings, there are a number of poems that begin with “Say”. One of them is Butterfly.
Last month I was creating instructional videos for an open channel station that was airing teacher-made videos for students learning at home. I created one around this poem. In doing so, I created a draft of a poem of my own as a model for writing “after Nikki Grimes.”
Poets like Nikki give children courage to be writers. Her gentle way of writing the truth echoes in the hearts of young people. If you are looking for a model poem for young writers, turn to Nikki Grimes. Her next book release is exciting to me. Legacy: golden shovel poems inspired by words of Harlem Renaissance Women Poets. It releases in January, 2021. I hope by then I’ll see Nikki again and add another signed book to my collection.
Reflections on the Teche 
I love this sentence, “Poets like Nikki give children courage to be writers.” And, I was so hoping you had seen the cover of Legacy…I can’t wait to read it. Your video is wonderful with the steps of the lesson, the wind chimes and the birds…what a beautiful collection of sounds. Miss Fancy is so tiny in that photo. But, how many kids will absolutely fall in love with a poem because it’s about a kitten. Many!
Once again, your response supports me when I need a t most.
Your whole post is a wonderful tribute to Nikki Grimes! I loved Nikki’s book, Words With Wings. Great idea to take a poem from, Words With Wings and you made an excellent lesson! You have inspired me to write one. Thank you.
I’m excited for you that you are writing a verse novel! I love verse novels. Your writing is perfect for a verse novel. I have attempted a couple MSs in verse, but I didn’t finish them. I’m confident you will write an excellent one.
May your dreams take flight, Margaret. I hope this statement is a sign that there are many avenues that will open on your journey. I am trying to make some instructional videos for my graduate course for teachers. Yours is an excellent model. I may insert it in my course if I have extra time or I may add it to a resource page of remote learning lessons. Your soft, soothing voice slowly moves through the video giving just the right amount of instruction coupled with proper pausing. (Did you like my alliteration here?)
I sent you the recipe for the grilled peaches cake.
Nikki’s work gives us all courage to be writers … I cannot think of anything more inspirational than words having wings and wishing one’s “dreams to take flight.” I especially appreciate how you say “her gentle way of writing the truth.” She tugs on the heartstrings, softly. Your kitten poem – so vivid. A testimony to the power of a few well-chosen words to conjure a clear image and real sensations.The analysis of its parent poem – Nikki’s Butterfly – wonderful lesson; I can hear kids saying “Hey, I can do that!”
I love that message from the universe…from Nikki…Best wishes for your verse novel!
I know I loved “Words With Wings” when I read it, but I think I need to read it again. I’m sure it is a perfect mentor for your project. Nikki’s poetry is so inspiring!
Gorgeous post Margaret! How serendipitous and inspiring to find Nikki’s words,
“May your dreams take flight,” inside your book… Here’s to journeying with your words this summer. Thanks for your video and all here.
Mentor texts…mentor poems…that’s one of my favorite ways to create new work. I love your kitten poem and your video. So soft-spoken and lovely, and you make creating poetry sound so unintimidating. No wonder you coax magic from your students.