NEW GIRL LITERACIES
We shared a computer desk,
side by side, first day of school.
I asked her, what is your name?
Shiny braids shook back and forth.
Oh, I see. Where are you from?
Left and right, the braids – no, no.
Español? Or Arabic?
Her hair now quite talkative.
All the words quite clearly, NO.
I clicked on a map, her eyes
swept right, then she clicked a spot.
The braids at rest. Oh, Nepal!
© 2016 Linda Mitchell. All rights reserved.
Jane Yolen has challenged us to write a septercet that features reading or writing this month. What is a septercet? Click HERE for more details.
Post your poem on our September 2016 padlet. All contributions will be included in a wrap-up celebration on Friday, September 30th, and one lucky participant will win a personalized copy of her fabulous new collection of science poetry:
A different kind of reading! I just talked to a friend who is working with a refugee family, and she was describing how much body language is helping. They speak no English. I'll share this with her, Linda. Love "Her hair now quite talkative"!
ReplyDeleteI love this, especially"Her hair now quite talkative." Yes, we communicate in every way we can. Thanks, Linda!
ReplyDeleteEvery time I read this, Linda, I get goose bumps.
ReplyDeleteI'm so glad you are there in that school library.
I agree with Liz about that talkative hair - so vivid.
I also love your original take on this challenge and those talking braids! Not to mention the underlying message about acceptance, friendship, and celebrating our differences. Brava, Linda!
ReplyDeleteFantastic idea and good flow of words. What sweet girls you've created.
ReplyDeleteI can just Imogen this conversation the little girl with brads swing back and forth love how different your poem is :)
ReplyDeleteI like the energy of this poem.
ReplyDeleteThis is a very different take. I like it. Thanks for the poem.
ReplyDelete