Martha E. Rhynes

Martha E. Rhynes has written a short and easy-to-read account of the life of Gwendolyn Brooks. When reading Brooks poems and stories, one can get a sense of her life, but Rhynes has given readers an outsider's look at her life. This book would blend easily into units on authors, African Americans, or important women.

I also enjoy how teachers can grab some activities out of this book. At one point we learn that Brooks tried to write a poem, a story, anything everyday. Students and future writers should be encouraged to do the same thing. Some of Brooks's best writing came from what she saw every day and recorded.… (más)