BIBLIOGRAPHY
Frost, Helen. 2008. DIAMOND WILLOW. New York: Farrar, Straus and Giroux. ISBN 0-374-31776-3.
PLOT SUMMARY
Willow, a twelve year old girl, lives in a remote area of Alaska. She loves helping her father with their sled dogs, but can't help but feel out of place at school. She feels as though a part of her is missing or empty. During a journey to her grandparents' house, she begins to understand how the animals around her carry the spirits of her loved ones and ancestors.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS
"Diamond Willow" is a beautifully told shape poem that details the the emotional journey of a young girl in Alaska. The series of poems are represented in a purposeful diamond shape that deepens the background of this story. Within each diamond shaped poem, there are bold words that convey a deeper, yet precise meaning within the poem. The bold words give the reader insight into the thoughts of our main character, twelve-year-old Willow. The poem is written in verse that is easily related to by an adolescent audience. Though this is not a rhyming poem, the vivid imagery of the Alaskan wilderness and beautiful language that conveys a feeling of empathy, marks this piece of literature as a must-read for any adolescent. The reader is easily able to empathize with the awkwardness and mystery of growing up.
REVIEW EXCERPTS/AWARDS
This complex and elegant novel will resonate with readers who savor powerful drama and multifaceted characters." School Library Journal review
“Frost presents her story in a series of poems in Willow’s voice, using a form inspired by the marks on a diamond willow stick.” —Kirkus Reviews, Online review
CONNECTIONS
I am planning on reading this story aloud a complimentary piece to our Native American study. DIAMOND WILLOW provides open dialogue on some of the struggles of growing up and facing tough decisions.
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