For example, William Shockley’s poem about his girl throwing him out has a strong boogie-woogie beat. Many of the poems have elements of music jazz, boogie-woogie and Blues are all represented in this book. This book is classified as a children’s book however the rich poetry and imagery would appeal to both young adults and adults. Since her stories are told in prose, it is almost as if Clara Brown is our constant companion and tour guide through Harlem.
Clara Brown is the oldest person in Harlem to tell her story and her poem is last though, throughout the book she tells the reader interesting little stories that each give a little insight to her character. Another common theme is the character of Clara Brown. The reader is introduced to each person through their poems. There is not a single theme of sadness, or poverty, joy or hilarity. The common theme, of course, is the city of Harlem. This helps illustrate the fact that the people themselves are different. The poems in this collection are delivered, or written, in a variety of rhythms. Collectively, they offer a colorful and warmly personal portrayal of Harlem.” Sure to be a classic.”īooklist Starred Review: “Some of the individual poems are exceptionally strong and memorable. Kirkus Starred Review: “One of Myers’s best-and that’s saying a lot. Readers will want to visit again and again. Publisher’s Weekly: “And Harlem is indeed home, to all of the people who give voice to its pains and pleasures. Happy or sad, funny or serious, all poems have a common, ever-present character the vibrant city of Harlem.
At the end of the book we find out that she is the oldest person in Harlem, and she finally gives us her poem as the last one in the collection. Clara Brown delivers her testimonies in prose. At the beginning of each Part of the book there is Clara Brown’s Testimony. Some are carefree and happy, like the “Party Girl” poem. As in life, some poems are very sad, like the father and daughter companion poems about her drug use.
The narrators are of all ages and all walks of life. The people of Harlem discuss their dreams, fears, ambitions, sorrows and joys. Scattered throughout the book, the author has included many photos of Harlem and its people from his personal collection. In these poems, the narrators are talking about themselves and their lives in Harlem, New York. Inspired by SPOON RIVER ANTHOLOGY, HERE IN HARLEM is a collection of poems by Walter Dean Myers written in first person.
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