With the exception of �Abandoned Cabin,� which is a rhyming poem, the book is written in free verse. George incorporates concrete poems, which are shaped like their subjects. �Tent� is written in a pyramid shape, and �Eavesdropping� is in the shape of the moon. �Storm� looks as if a strong wind blew the words across the page, and �Two Voices in a Tent at Night� is written in the back-and-forth style of a conversation. �Flashlight� has four verses, each inscribed in a circle of light cast by a flashlight.
The poet shares strong sensory images of her camping trips, enriching the experience for the reader. Colors are vividly depicted: the �blooming, bright orange� tent; �heavy, black clouds;� and the sweeping yellow fields of wild mustard. Tactile sensations are shared, as well. Children will understand the �warm front, cold back� of �Campfire� and the wind that is �whistle-sharp, wet and cold� in �Storm.� One can almost hear the all-too-familiar buzzing in �Mosquito Song,� and taste the crispy, sooty marshmallows roasted on a stick in �Toasting Marshmallows.�
Alliteration is another device used effectively by George. �Flop. Front flips, back flips� describes dressing in a �Sleeping Bag� and �furry flash� and �chubby cheeks� are a comical description of a bold chipmunk in �Breakfast.� Personification is seen in �Old Truck,� describing a �54 GMC flatbed. �Her chrome grille is a shy, wistful grin.�
The boldly colored, impressionistic paintings by Kate Kiesler blend seamlessly with the poems to enhance the story. In double page pictures, the text becomes part of the art itself. In other instances, the art is a frame for the written word. The artist beautifully depicts starry nighttime skies, woodland animals, and the serenity of lakes and fields of flowers.
Children will delight in the experiences of the child narrator, and enjoy vicariously the wonders and surprises found on a camping trip. �George has penned 30 sublimely simple poems that capture the sights, sounds, smells, and sensations of a family's camping trip, from pitching the tent to pulling up stakes and returning home.� (School Library Journal, July 1, 2001) Lay in a supply of marshmallows, build a fire, turn down the lights, and enjoy!
Awards
School Library Journal Best Books of the Year
Bluebonnet Award (Nominee)
Young Hoosier Book Award (Nominee)
NCTE Notable Children�s Book in Language Arts
Myra Cohn Livingston Poetry Award
Related Websites
Kristine O�Connel George Website: http://www.kristinegeorge.com
�Virtual� Camping Trip : http://www.backroads.com
Source
Books in Print [database online]. Available from http://www.booksinprint.com. Accessed 07 October 2004.
School of Library and Information Studies
TEXAS WOMAN'S UNIVERSITY