"Haiku is a traditional Japanese poetry form that uses images from nature to capture a moment in life. Haiku are fun to write. Learn how to compose these short, simple but profound poems." -Skipping Stones magazine "Poetry has often gotten a bad rap among kids, much to the chagrin of nerdy teacher types like me. I'm always on the lookout for resources to make poetry, and especially Japanese poetry, more accessible and enjoyable for kids. Look no further than this book. It takes the seemingly simple haiku and reveals the complexity contained in just three lines. What a breath of fresh air compared to the usual way that we describe haiku-focusing strictly on the 5-7-5 syllable pattern...As a how-to book, its ideas for combining haiku with stories and prose (to make haibun) or with drawings (to make haiga) will spark creativity for both kids and adults." -Nichi Bei "This book is geared toward children, and is set up like a picture book. But it is much more than that. Yes, there are many illustrations and the text is varied in its typefaces and formatting, while the layout-with two columns on each page-breaks up the extensive text. Further, the writing is straightforward and friendly. Altogether, it makes this fairly complete look at writing Haiku engaging and thorough, and suitable for all ages, including children. The book is well-bound and printed, and packs a lot of interesting info into its 50 pages." - KidsR.Us "This book entices children to think more deeply about the world around them, to see things from a new perspective, to be in touch with nature, to feel the blade of grass beneath their feet, and to imagine themselves as a ladybug on the grass. They learn about seasonal words and ways in which they can express emotions, nature, and seasons without using that word itself. [...] It's one of those books you won't know you needed until after you've used it." - Castle View Academy "This book gives a bit of history as well as what a haiku is and then gives the seven steps to writing a haiku. [...] Have you ever written a haiku? They are fun to write and read! Be sure to check out this fun book to get you started." - Crafty Moms Share blog "This wonderful step-by-step guide teaches children and adults about the art of haiku and renga (linked poem). Beginning with simple instructions and advancing on to activities, poetry students can learn and grow from the rich history and examples of thought processes presented here. (...) VERDICT A well-constructed and thoughtful guide for fledgling poets. School and classroom libraries will want to purchase." - School Library Journal "A glossary and a haiku resource guide round out this excellent choice for children as well as teachers seeking fresh materials for poetry units." -Booklist

Haiku is a uniquely Japanese form of poetry that uses vivid words and imagery to capture a feeling or a moment in just three lines. Short but powerful, haiku poems are easy and fun to write and share with your friends. Haiku has become increasingly popular in school curriculums around the world, particularly among teachers introducing students to the art of poetry as well as Asian history and heritage. The activities in this haiku for kids book will show you how to create haiku, and will help you to think up meaningful words and images with which you can write your own beautiful poetry. Write Your Own Haiku For Kids introduces four styles of haiku to readers with clear explanations and numerous examples. This book includes chapters on: Your first haiku how to get started writing this classic form of poetry Haiku about Nature a traditional element in haiku Haibun Haiku with a short story Haiga Haiku with a drawing Renga Haiku that you write together with friends. The study and creation of haiku is a great way to have fun with both writing and reading poetry while exploring an exceptional aspects of Japanese culture.