Schoolyard Rhymes

BIBLIOGRAPHY:
Sweet, Melissa. 2005. SCHOOLYARD RHYMES: KIDS’ OWN RHYMES FOR ROPE SKIPPING, HAND CLAPPING, BALL BOUNCING, AND JUST PLAIN FUN by Judy Sierra. New York: Alfred A. Knopf. ISBN 0375825169

PLOT SUMMARY:
Sierra’s collection of favorite schoolyard rhymes is sure to be a favorite with kids. Full of pure nonsense and fun, the rhymes have been passed down through generations. While much of their creation remains a mystery, the chants are extremely popular in American culture. The light hearted rhymes may often complement games such as hand clapping and jump rope. Sierra includes a couple of rhymes on each page to form a book chalk full of favorites.

CRITICAL ANALYSIS:
The characters are everyday objects and people that children can easily relate to such as teddy bears, soda cans, or teachers. The rhymes feature silly combinations of words and events adding to the fun of the craft. They have a quick rhythm which is generally set to a popular tune. This adds to the rhymes longevity as it easier to remember. Because many of the stories were created a long time ago, they often feature older words like peppermint stick that are not part of children’s vernacular today.

Sweet sketches vibrant illustrations to complement the energy of the rhymes. Using bright water colors, she created pictures that are child-like and carefree. She borders many of the rhymes with text imbedded in an object like a jump rope or clothesline.

This collection is intended for adults to share with kids. I feel that it would be helpful if the author had suggested a tune at the bottom of the rhyme to guide the reader. Because many of these rhymes have different renditions, kids might be a little confused. For example, there are several lines in Sierra’s version of Miss Mary Mack that are often altered by kids today.

AWARDS WON AND REVIEW EXCERPTS(S):
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL review: “Sierra has selected some of the funniest and most memorable schoolyard rhymes available in this appealing collection, including such old favorites as Miss Mary Mack, Mack, Mack, Lady with the Alligator Purse, and Liar, Liar, Pants on Fire.”
BOOKLIST review: “A great choice for back-to-school displays.”

CONNECTIONS:
*Teach the students several of the rhymes that carry the same tune. Have them sing to build oral fluency skills.
*Have your students write down their favorite schoolyard rhymes to build your own library’s collection.
*Select a favorite rhyme and have each child draw their own illustrations.