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Gone
Gone Fishing: A Novel in Verse
Using a wide variety of poetic forms – quatrains, ballads, iambic meter, rhyming lists, concrete poetry, tercets and free verse –this debut author tells the story of a nine-year-old boy’s day of fishing. Sibling rivalry, the bond between father and son, the excitement – and difficulty -- of fishing all add up to a day of adventure any child would want to experience.
Matthew Cordell illuminates this novel-in-verse throughout with his energetic black-and-white line drawings.
While each poem can be read and enjoyed on its own, the poems work together to create a story arc with conflict, crisis, resolution and character growth.
The back matter of this book equips the reader with a Poet's Tackle Box of tools and definitions for understanding the various poetic forms the author uses in this story.
Matthew Cordell illuminates this novel-in-verse throughout with his energetic black-and-white line drawings.
While each poem can be read and enjoyed on its own, the poems work together to create a story arc with conflict, crisis, resolution and character growth.
The back matter of this book equips the reader with a Poet's Tackle Box of tools and definitions for understanding the various poetic forms the author uses in this story.
128 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2013
About the author
Tamera Will Wissinger
9 books21 followersTamera Wissinger writes stories and poetry for children. Her book Gone Fishing: A Novel In Verse, HMH, is an ALSC 2014 Notable Children's Book, a Children's Book Committee 2014 Best Children's Book of the Year, and an International Reading Association 2014 Teachers Choice Book. This Old Band, a counting concept book from Sky Pony Press is a 2015 Read to the Rhythm selection, and a 2014 Southwestern Book of the Year for Kids. Tamera is a graduate of Hamline University’s MFA in Writing for Children and Young Adults program. Her second picture book, THERE WAS AN OLD LADY WHO GOBBLED A SKINK, released in 2016. Gone Camping: A Novel in Verse from HMH Children's is a 2017 New York Public Library Best Books for Kids, NCTE Notable Verse Novel for Excellence in Poetry Book, Nerdy Book Club Best Poetry and Novel in Verse, and a Grand Canyon Reader Award Nominee. Tamera is a graduate of Hamline University's MFA in Writing for Children and Young Adults program.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 394 reviews
April 8, 2023
Albeit that I really do not all that much enjoy stories about fishing in and of themselves and especially if or when the latter is the main narrative focus (since fishing is not and never has been "my thing" at all and that I frankly find some of the very specific and detailed poems about catching fish in Tamera Will Wissinger's 2013 Gone Fishing: A Novel in Verse rather too in my proverbial face so to speak and thus personally uncomfortable with regard to the contents and textual information being shown), I still am rating Gone Fishing: A Novel in Verse with a very solid and appreciated four stars (for a generally successful combination of text and images, although I do kind of wish that Matthew Cordell's accompanying artwork were not black and white and a bit less cartoon-like).
For one, the sibling rivalry thematics of Gone Fishing: A Novel in Verse is delightfully relatable, lyrically (as well as humorously) rendered by author Tanera Will Wissinger, and that indeed, I really like how by the end of the fishing excursion nine year old Sam has learned to appreciate his little sister, no longer thinks of her as an annoying interloper and even claims that he (that Sam) wants Lucy to come along the next time the father proposes another fishing trip. And well, there is actually nothing in any manner "wrong" with the fishing themed poetry of Gone Fishing: A Novel in Verse, it is just that I myself am certainly not a huge fan of reading an entire novel in verse only about fishing, that fishing is not something I find interesting and also somewhat problematic for me personally, and in particular if the descriptions of said fishing get a bit detailed (which does sometimes happen in Gone Fishing: A Novel in Verse). For two, I also love love love how in Gone Fishing: A Novel in Verse, the story of Sam and Lucy's fishing trip with their father is shown not by a continuous story line in verse, but by Tanera Will Wissinger using multiple and labeled poetic forms, how she uses single poems like for example free verse poetry, ballads, acrostics, haikus, lyric poems, couplets etc. to tell her story (and to also at the same time introduce different types of poetry to her intended audience, to young readers from about the age of eight or so onwards). And for three (and for me, really importantly and essentially), the back material of Gone Fishing: A Novel in Verse with its introduction to poetry and to the various poetic forms found within the story portion (and also including a very decent and usable bibliography), this is not only the icing on the cake for me, it also in my opinion makes Gone Fishing: A Novel in Verse a really fun and engaging educational tool, perfect for introducing poetry in the classroom and/or for homeschooling purposes.
For one, the sibling rivalry thematics of Gone Fishing: A Novel in Verse is delightfully relatable, lyrically (as well as humorously) rendered by author Tanera Will Wissinger, and that indeed, I really like how by the end of the fishing excursion nine year old Sam has learned to appreciate his little sister, no longer thinks of her as an annoying interloper and even claims that he (that Sam) wants Lucy to come along the next time the father proposes another fishing trip. And well, there is actually nothing in any manner "wrong" with the fishing themed poetry of Gone Fishing: A Novel in Verse, it is just that I myself am certainly not a huge fan of reading an entire novel in verse only about fishing, that fishing is not something I find interesting and also somewhat problematic for me personally, and in particular if the descriptions of said fishing get a bit detailed (which does sometimes happen in Gone Fishing: A Novel in Verse). For two, I also love love love how in Gone Fishing: A Novel in Verse, the story of Sam and Lucy's fishing trip with their father is shown not by a continuous story line in verse, but by Tanera Will Wissinger using multiple and labeled poetic forms, how she uses single poems like for example free verse poetry, ballads, acrostics, haikus, lyric poems, couplets etc. to tell her story (and to also at the same time introduce different types of poetry to her intended audience, to young readers from about the age of eight or so onwards). And for three (and for me, really importantly and essentially), the back material of Gone Fishing: A Novel in Verse with its introduction to poetry and to the various poetic forms found within the story portion (and also including a very decent and usable bibliography), this is not only the icing on the cake for me, it also in my opinion makes Gone Fishing: A Novel in Verse a really fun and engaging educational tool, perfect for introducing poetry in the classroom and/or for homeschooling purposes.
May 30, 2016
I liked this novel in verse describing a day of fishing originally meant for father and son before a little sister ends up tagging along. I especially enjoyed the poet's tackle box at the end of the novel describing the different types of figurative language and types of poems used throughout the novel.
July 13, 2016
This Bluestem nominee is adorable. The author utilizes various types of POETRY in a fun and engaging way, concrete to free verse, from the perspectives of Dad, Sam, and Lucy. Wissinger tells the reader about the hobby of fishing, family bonds, and sibling rivalry. My third grade cousin got a big kick out of this book, fisherman or not.
December 11, 2016
Love that these are real poems, not just one long broken lined story. Love the 'tackle box' lessons, and the bibliography, at the end. Liked the story. Didn't like the illustrations much, as James Stevenson does this style best and others are basically copying. I do think boys who don't think they like poems could like this, so, yay for a niche filled with something newer than the amazing Love That Dog (still the standard).
November 4, 2018
Wonderful story of how a brother and sister, thrown together on a fishing trip, learn what it means to be a family. What started out being planned as a father and son fishing trip, soon included little sister. In the end, it's the family memories and bonds that make life (and fishing) all the more fun.
October 1, 2013
Delightful! I'm a fan of novels in verse, but they are usually geared towards middle grades and up. Here, Wissinger gives us a marvelous collection of poems all about Sam and his day of fishing with his dad and sister, Lucy. From the beginning, when Lucy borrows Sam's fishing great to play pretend with her dolls to the end, when Sam realizes bringing Lucy along wasn't such a bad thing after all, Gone Fishing is a great story. Young readers will identify with Sam's feelings towards his sister, young fishermen will groan with Sam when Lucy sings to the fish, and all young competitive types will feel Sam's pain when LUCY catches the first fish.
Wissinger does a good job of giving both kids a "win" without making them equal.
Each poem is different in style and type (from concrete poems to quatrains and couplets to switcheroos); to complement this exposure, there is a handy glossary of terms and types in the back for more exploration of the various types. A great way to introduce different poetic styles and types to young readers, Gone Fishing is also a rewarding read in and of itself without "teaching" it.
Cordell's illustrations are a perfect match, too, for the style and tone of the book.
Wissinger does a good job of giving both kids a "win" without making them equal.
Each poem is different in style and type (from concrete poems to quatrains and couplets to switcheroos); to complement this exposure, there is a handy glossary of terms and types in the back for more exploration of the various types. A great way to introduce different poetic styles and types to young readers, Gone Fishing is also a rewarding read in and of itself without "teaching" it.
Cordell's illustrations are a perfect match, too, for the style and tone of the book.
September 18, 2017
This quick-paced story in verse retells a father and son fishing trip interrupted by Sam's little sister Lucy. Wissinger eloquently exposes readers to varying styles of poetry and poetic elements, subtitling each poem with the poetic form it is written in. Each poem advances the narrative of a day on the lake and resonates the battles of a typical sibling rivalry. The book concludes with an excellent "Poet's Tackle Box," describing poetry techniques and forms, and giving examples of where each was used throughout the book. This book is perfect for 2nd to 5th grade readers interested in fishing or poetry. The "Poet's Tackle Box" is also a great resource for teachers unpacking poetry with students.
January 19, 2013
This one's a catch! It's a fish story - about a boy, his dad, and GASP - his younger sister (who worms her way in) - on a fishing day out on the lake. It's told in (often) humorous verse. Perfect for reluctant readers, voracious readers, fisher-people, and poetry lovers -- this book may turn kids (and adults) into poetry lovers. The poems are labeled as to what type they are -- and there's fabulous back-matter which teachers with LOVE. Grades 3 - 6 / younger if used as a read aloud. FIVE STARS.
October 7, 2023
I’m not a huge fan of Poetry, but this was a fun way to introduce lots of different, short poems and tie them all into one story. I’m excited to have my kids read it as an introduction to poetry.
February 26, 2014
Let's face it, Poetry isn't really a favorite of kids, nor is it something they get much of in school. I am afraid I am even guilty of it myself. I have reviewed at least 5 books on this blog and never added a poetry label, and only mentioned they were written in free verse (I will be correcting this oversight today!) Yet, hey are all excellent novels that can be used to introduce kids to poetry. And then there is the very amusing novel by Greg Pincus, The 14 Fibs of Gregory K, which has a boy protagonist who likes to write poetry, much like the author does.
Gone Fishing, Tamera Will Wissinger debut book, is a new work that can be added to the list of novels written in verse. Sam, 9, is beyond excited because he and his dad are going to go fishing together, just the two of them, without Sam's little sister, Lucy.
To get ready, they dig up some night crawlers for bait, but when Sam pulls out his tackle, what a surprise - it is full of Lucy's toys. And he finds her playing pretend fishing with his precious fishing gear.
By early next morning, though, Sam is all set and up before the sun, but so is Lucy. They get to the lake, get the boat in the water and Sam is ready for some serious fishing. So is Lucy. Sam likes it quiet so the fish don't get scared away, Lucy likes to lure the fish with a song and the first fish of the day is caught by….Lucy.
Sam is seething mad, Lucy is singing and fishing. Sam. even tries Lucy's fish songs under his breath to lure a catch, but not luck. He just sinks lower into his anger and annoyance, begrudging Lucy each fish that she catches even as his sibling rivalry rises to the top. Sam is determined to catch a bigger fish. The first big one gets away, but not the second. Sam is proud, but to his surprise so is Lucy, who cheers for him:
"You caught one, Sam!"
Lucy scoots close to me.
"A big one, too!"
I nod, gulp.
I didn't even look
when she caught
her first fish.
But she
cheered for me.
Maybe I was wrong
about bringing her along.
Gone Fishing is really about coming to terms with sibling rivalry, something all brothers and sisters eventually (hopefully) go through, learning to accept the other as a person not a competitor, annoyance, things like that. And it is charming to see how that begins to work out for Sam and Lucy.
Adding to the fun of the poetry are the colorful, whimsical illustrations done in pen, ink and watercolor by Matthew Cordell.
But wait, that's not all there is to Gone Fishing.
Each part of Sam's fishing day is told in its own poem. Some of the poems are in Sam's voice, some in Lucy's and some in the Dad's, and sometimes a poems has all three voices in it. Each poem is short, have much to say and are done in different poetic forms - odes, free verse, lyric, Lucy's fish song is a poem of address, to name a few.
At the end of the book, Wissinger has included a section called The Poet's Tackle Box. Here, she explains the different poetry techniques used, all the different poetic forms she used and they difference between rhyme and rhythm. It is an ideal book for introducing poetry in to young students, all the more so because the poems in Gone Fishing are about kids just like them and they could even make up their own similar poems.
Even if you aren't interested in poetry, you will have lots of fun reading Gone Fishing, a fun, playful novel in verse.
This book is recommended for readers age 6+
This book was borrowed from the NYPL
This review was originally posted on Randomly Reading
Gone Fishing, Tamera Will Wissinger debut book, is a new work that can be added to the list of novels written in verse. Sam, 9, is beyond excited because he and his dad are going to go fishing together, just the two of them, without Sam's little sister, Lucy.
To get ready, they dig up some night crawlers for bait, but when Sam pulls out his tackle, what a surprise - it is full of Lucy's toys. And he finds her playing pretend fishing with his precious fishing gear.
By early next morning, though, Sam is all set and up before the sun, but so is Lucy. They get to the lake, get the boat in the water and Sam is ready for some serious fishing. So is Lucy. Sam likes it quiet so the fish don't get scared away, Lucy likes to lure the fish with a song and the first fish of the day is caught by….Lucy.
Sam is seething mad, Lucy is singing and fishing. Sam. even tries Lucy's fish songs under his breath to lure a catch, but not luck. He just sinks lower into his anger and annoyance, begrudging Lucy each fish that she catches even as his sibling rivalry rises to the top. Sam is determined to catch a bigger fish. The first big one gets away, but not the second. Sam is proud, but to his surprise so is Lucy, who cheers for him:
"You caught one, Sam!"
Lucy scoots close to me.
"A big one, too!"
I nod, gulp.
I didn't even look
when she caught
her first fish.
But she
cheered for me.
Maybe I was wrong
about bringing her along.
Gone Fishing is really about coming to terms with sibling rivalry, something all brothers and sisters eventually (hopefully) go through, learning to accept the other as a person not a competitor, annoyance, things like that. And it is charming to see how that begins to work out for Sam and Lucy.
Adding to the fun of the poetry are the colorful, whimsical illustrations done in pen, ink and watercolor by Matthew Cordell.
But wait, that's not all there is to Gone Fishing.
Each part of Sam's fishing day is told in its own poem. Some of the poems are in Sam's voice, some in Lucy's and some in the Dad's, and sometimes a poems has all three voices in it. Each poem is short, have much to say and are done in different poetic forms - odes, free verse, lyric, Lucy's fish song is a poem of address, to name a few.
At the end of the book, Wissinger has included a section called The Poet's Tackle Box. Here, she explains the different poetry techniques used, all the different poetic forms she used and they difference between rhyme and rhythm. It is an ideal book for introducing poetry in to young students, all the more so because the poems in Gone Fishing are about kids just like them and they could even make up their own similar poems.
Even if you aren't interested in poetry, you will have lots of fun reading Gone Fishing, a fun, playful novel in verse.
This book is recommended for readers age 6+
This book was borrowed from the NYPL
This review was originally posted on Randomly Reading
May 22, 2018
This was an unexpected gem, one of the most creative and unique children's books I've read in a while! The story is weaved together via poetry told mainly from a young boy's perspective. With outdoor adventure, family relationships and a childlike sense of wonder, this book hits on several themes that made me reminisce about my own growing up years.
There are a vast amount of poetry forms used, but none of them feel forced or coerced. The simple, engaging illustrations support the story line, while the glossary (i.e. tackle box) explains the different techniques and structures used throughout the pages.
It's a perfect book for elementary readers who are just starting to explore the wonderful world of poetry. I would highly recommend this fun read - hook, line and sinker!
There are a vast amount of poetry forms used, but none of them feel forced or coerced. The simple, engaging illustrations support the story line, while the glossary (i.e. tackle box) explains the different techniques and structures used throughout the pages.
It's a perfect book for elementary readers who are just starting to explore the wonderful world of poetry. I would highly recommend this fun read - hook, line and sinker!
March 15, 2015
As far as teaching a variety of poetic forms, this book was great. The actual story isn't the main draw though.
June 18, 2019
This is a wonderful story, created as a collection of different types of poems and designed to be entertaining and illustrative. I really enjoyed reading the book and I appreciated the additional lesson on the different types and components of poetry.
The illustrations were created using pen and ink with watercolor and really help to convey the emotions of Sam, Lucy, and their dad as well as depict the events of their fishing trip. I would have preferred them to be in color, but they complement the poems as they are.
At the end of the book are twelve pages of instructional material about different kinds of poem forms and techniques. I love that the author titled this section "The Poet's Tackle Box. After that is a bibliography of additional poetry reference resources.
Overall, it's a fun, fast read and I really enjoyed it. I recently read the author's other book in the Gone series of stories in verse and I was excited to see that she had written this one, too.
I brought the book along to our own trip to the lake and although I'm not a big fan of fishing, I loved the story and the fact that they were all having fun outdoors together. That's what lake living is all about!
I think that both of these books would be terrific resources to help teach students of almost any age about different types and forms of poetry in a very accessible and humorous way.
interesting quotes:
"We sway at the bow
As Dad steers the boat
Across the lake.
Mist sprinkles our arms in
Dewy
Drops
That glisten in the sun." (p. 38)
"SNAP!
Bobber flies above my shoulder.
Water makes an arcing spray.
I sure would have liked to see it:
My big fish that got away." (p. 66)
"I didn't even look
when she caught
her first fish.
But she
cheered for me.
Maybe I was wrong
about bringing her along." (p. 79)
The illustrations were created using pen and ink with watercolor and really help to convey the emotions of Sam, Lucy, and their dad as well as depict the events of their fishing trip. I would have preferred them to be in color, but they complement the poems as they are.
At the end of the book are twelve pages of instructional material about different kinds of poem forms and techniques. I love that the author titled this section "The Poet's Tackle Box. After that is a bibliography of additional poetry reference resources.
Overall, it's a fun, fast read and I really enjoyed it. I recently read the author's other book in the Gone series of stories in verse and I was excited to see that she had written this one, too.
I brought the book along to our own trip to the lake and although I'm not a big fan of fishing, I loved the story and the fact that they were all having fun outdoors together. That's what lake living is all about!
I think that both of these books would be terrific resources to help teach students of almost any age about different types and forms of poetry in a very accessible and humorous way.
interesting quotes:
"We sway at the bow
As Dad steers the boat
Across the lake.
Mist sprinkles our arms in
Dewy
Drops
That glisten in the sun." (p. 38)
"SNAP!
Bobber flies above my shoulder.
Water makes an arcing spray.
I sure would have liked to see it:
My big fish that got away." (p. 66)
"I didn't even look
when she caught
her first fish.
But she
cheered for me.
Maybe I was wrong
about bringing her along." (p. 79)
April 5, 2017
Tamera Will Wissinger does a fantastic job creating one book that allows you to teach a variety of poetic forms while telling one story. It’s nice how it tells you what type of poem you are reading so you can use it as a stop point to discuss. On top of that I really just enjoyed the story. While I can’t really relate to the characters directly I can sympathize with all three at some point along the journey. The book Gone Fishing, is a story about a boy, his dad, and his younger sister on a fishing day out on the lake. I really liked how it told the story from three points of view and typically had a humorous tone to it. I thought the illustrations did a fantastic job of capturing the dismay and disappointment on Sam’s face. I thought Wissinger did a wonderful job taking us on this unique journey and did a great job with the transition of Sam from bitter to appreciative after he realizes how much Lucy looks up to him. I’ll definitely mark this one to use in a classroom when given the opportunity.
January 17, 2020
What a little gem. First a story of going fishing with Dad, and having the little sister butt in...and catch more fish than you. Then, deciding how to handle that at home.
But the real treasures of this book are the short poems. Wissinger identifies the speaker of each, sometimes Sam, sometimes Lucy. She also identifies the poetry form of each, and she chooses some great forms of poetry...and at the end, there is a glossary of poetic devices. Jackpot!!
This would make a fantastic mentor text for student writing...in pairs, alternating voices, while trying their hands with all these lovely forms.
I could plan weeks and weeks of lessons around this book, and I hope I would never destroy the sheer FUN of the book.
But the real treasures of this book are the short poems. Wissinger identifies the speaker of each, sometimes Sam, sometimes Lucy. She also identifies the poetry form of each, and she chooses some great forms of poetry...and at the end, there is a glossary of poetic devices. Jackpot!!
This would make a fantastic mentor text for student writing...in pairs, alternating voices, while trying their hands with all these lovely forms.
I could plan weeks and weeks of lessons around this book, and I hope I would never destroy the sheer FUN of the book.
January 12, 2023
I teach poetry. I read to my kids (9 & 12) Frost, Whitman, Hughes, Rumi - & modern stuff like Clint Smith, Acevedo, etc.. And they get it; not all of it, but they get it. Maybe that's why this just isn't working for us. We read it and it was fast/easy, but I honestly don't get the hype. Much of the "poetry" is simple rhyme. And throw in a concrete poem for kicks, I guess. The language choices are obvious and pretty one-dimensional. But - and this is most important - my kids aren't feeling much after reading it. The first question I always ask: How does it make you feel? Then I ask: Why? So I asked, and the response was: Nothing really. It's kind of boring.
So the hunt continues...
So the hunt continues...
June 29, 2018
This was a great story about two siblings wanting to go fishing with their dad. The brother doesn't really want the sister to come but she does anyway but they end up having a great time. Later, they cook the fish and have a great meal while reflecting on the day. Its a very good book, and quick.
November 14, 2018
This was cute. When I was a teacher, I was always looking for resources to teach poetry that weren't random poems in isolation, and I think this would have been an INCREDIBLE tool to use in the classroom, especially four 4th-5th grade. It reminded me a lot of Shel Silverstein but with a light plot and some sweet family moments.
May 25, 2021
Great book to use as a book group during our poetry unit. Uses different types of poems to tell a full story about a boy going fishing with his dad and his little sister who crashed the father & son weekend. My students and I enjoyed having discussions about the plot of the story and the individual poems, structure and language.
September 28, 2022
Wow what a unique book!!!!!!!
July 25, 2024
What a fun read with my fish loving boys! This was simple to pass around and read, especially for my 6 year old.
October 28, 2017
After reading this book I immediately thought of how it was going to make a very strong addition to my own classroom library. One of the things I enjoyed was exposing myself to this genre. I have never taken much time to explore novels in verse, and I am glad I took this recommendation. Each new verse builds on the previous one, and it's so comical to read from the point of view of little Sam...a young boy who has a real love and desire for fishing, yet gets held back waiting for his younger sister, Lucy, at times. My favorite verse was "Fishing for Pretend," as it shows Lucy playing with Sam's tackle box, looking so sweet and innocent just wanting to play with her brother. Sam, on the other hand, is mortified. This book was just such a joy and made me smile. I think young readers would be able to connect to this book and see the humor in it!
December 19, 2016
Sam is really looking forward to fishing with his dad, just the two of them. When his sister, Lucy, decides she wants to join in, he’s sure the trip will be ruined with all her twirling, jumping, and playing. On the trip itself, though, Lucy and Sam surprise each other with their fishing abilities, and the bond they form as siblings. This book is told entirely in different forms of verse, in the voices of Lucy, Sam, and their dad.
Though this is a short book, and reminiscent in some ways of Like Pickle Juice on a Cookie and Like Bug Juice on a Burger (which are also illustrated by Matthew Cordell), I don’t think I’d classify Gone Fishing as an early chapter book. The vocabulary is simple enough, but I think the different poetic forms might be lost on kids who have not yet mastered independent reading. I think kids who already read fluently will be the ones who can truly appreciate the different rhythms, rhymes, and meters of each type of poem and understand how the form of each poem enhances and highlights its content. Instructors who teach poetry could easily find an entire unit’s worth of material just in this book, especially given the helpful “Poet’s Tackle Box” at the back of the book.
In terms of the story itself, I’m impressed by the way the author is able to develop characters and their relationships from within the structures of various poetry forms. It’s one thing to just write in free verse, because then you can pretty much take as many words as you need to say what you want to say, but to adhere so perfectly to form while also providing so many details about the characters’ lives is truly an accomplishment. I also love the way each poem captures a moment of the fishing trip, almost like a photograph. One of my favorites is the one from Sam’s point of view, called “First Catch” which is a lyric poem. It begins:
I wish a fish
I wish a fish
I wish a fish would bite.
This same format and repetition continues throughout the short poem, building suspense and anticipation until, in the last line, all Sam catches is a cap. Each of the poems paints a picture like this one, giving us the sights, sounds, smells, and emotions of one very exciting fishing trip.
Gone Fishing would make a great family read-aloud, especially on vacation. Any child with a sibling can easily relate to Sam and Lucy’s struggle to get along, and even without knowing anything about fish, they will find themselves rooting for Sam to catch a big one and prove that he does have the talent to be a fisherman. Other books that explore sibling rivalry and relationships in a similar tone include Judy Blume’s books about The Pain and the Great One, and the Alvin Ho series. This is Tamera Will Wissinger’s first novel, but I hope there will be more, as this was a really fun and well-crafted read!
Though this is a short book, and reminiscent in some ways of Like Pickle Juice on a Cookie and Like Bug Juice on a Burger (which are also illustrated by Matthew Cordell), I don’t think I’d classify Gone Fishing as an early chapter book. The vocabulary is simple enough, but I think the different poetic forms might be lost on kids who have not yet mastered independent reading. I think kids who already read fluently will be the ones who can truly appreciate the different rhythms, rhymes, and meters of each type of poem and understand how the form of each poem enhances and highlights its content. Instructors who teach poetry could easily find an entire unit’s worth of material just in this book, especially given the helpful “Poet’s Tackle Box” at the back of the book.
In terms of the story itself, I’m impressed by the way the author is able to develop characters and their relationships from within the structures of various poetry forms. It’s one thing to just write in free verse, because then you can pretty much take as many words as you need to say what you want to say, but to adhere so perfectly to form while also providing so many details about the characters’ lives is truly an accomplishment. I also love the way each poem captures a moment of the fishing trip, almost like a photograph. One of my favorites is the one from Sam’s point of view, called “First Catch” which is a lyric poem. It begins:
I wish a fish
I wish a fish
I wish a fish would bite.
This same format and repetition continues throughout the short poem, building suspense and anticipation until, in the last line, all Sam catches is a cap. Each of the poems paints a picture like this one, giving us the sights, sounds, smells, and emotions of one very exciting fishing trip.
Gone Fishing would make a great family read-aloud, especially on vacation. Any child with a sibling can easily relate to Sam and Lucy’s struggle to get along, and even without knowing anything about fish, they will find themselves rooting for Sam to catch a big one and prove that he does have the talent to be a fisherman. Other books that explore sibling rivalry and relationships in a similar tone include Judy Blume’s books about The Pain and the Great One, and the Alvin Ho series. This is Tamera Will Wissinger’s first novel, but I hope there will be more, as this was a really fun and well-crafted read!
September 15, 2013
Gone Fishing: A Novel in Verse by Tamera Will Wissinger, illustrated by Matthew Cordell, published 2013.
Realistic fiction.
Novel in verse, heavily illustrated.
Grades 1-4.
Found via School Library Journal, reviewed by Carole Phillips.
Gone Fishing is a novel told through poems, most of them composed by Sam, a young boy who just wants to go fishing with his father. However, unexpectedly his little sister asks to go along, which threatens to ruin his day but actually turns out positively in the end. Each poem in this book is short enough to be welcoming, and Wissinger moves between many poetic forms, rarely repeating them. At the end of the book there is a "Poet's Tackle Box" that introduces readers to each poetic form used and many poetic devices, allowing the book to easily be used in a classroom to teach students about poetry. Reviewer Carole Phillips notes that "[h]earing it aloud, children will appreciate the rollicking tale and the lyrical verse, while young readers will be able to enjoy the book independently," allowing the book to be recommended across multiple age groups. Indeed, though this is a novel in verse, Sam's simple story of sibling rivalry and fishing will make it appeal to many kinds of readers. Some adult supervision may be required to help with the poetry-related vocabulary, but otherwise this book is appropriate for all readers.
Realistic fiction.
Novel in verse, heavily illustrated.
Grades 1-4.
Found via School Library Journal, reviewed by Carole Phillips.
Gone Fishing is a novel told through poems, most of them composed by Sam, a young boy who just wants to go fishing with his father. However, unexpectedly his little sister asks to go along, which threatens to ruin his day but actually turns out positively in the end. Each poem in this book is short enough to be welcoming, and Wissinger moves between many poetic forms, rarely repeating them. At the end of the book there is a "Poet's Tackle Box" that introduces readers to each poetic form used and many poetic devices, allowing the book to easily be used in a classroom to teach students about poetry. Reviewer Carole Phillips notes that "[h]earing it aloud, children will appreciate the rollicking tale and the lyrical verse, while young readers will be able to enjoy the book independently," allowing the book to be recommended across multiple age groups. Indeed, though this is a novel in verse, Sam's simple story of sibling rivalry and fishing will make it appeal to many kinds of readers. Some adult supervision may be required to help with the poetry-related vocabulary, but otherwise this book is appropriate for all readers.
March 29, 2013
I thoroughly enjoyed this little book of poems that tell a story about a fishing trip from three points of view: Sam, the brother, Lucy, his annoying little sister, and their dad. Sam is so excited the night before his fishing trip with his dad. "Not Mom, not Grandpa, not Lucy...Just Dad and me." Lucy, however, has different ideas and talks her dad into letting her go, too. Matthew Cordell's illustrations show every dismayed and disappointed feelings in the expressions on Sam's face as he helps pack the car. They have to wait forever as Lucy gleefully gathers her fishing essentials: snacks, puzzles, games, toy guitar, art supplies, Play-Doh, etc. Poems are told from each character's point of view, and even some in two or three parts. Each poem is labeled with the narrator and the type of poem - everything from a Tercet Variation to a Lyric Poem. I love the story - Sam goes from bitter to appreciative when he realizes Lucy is his biggest fan (there was one part that even made me tear up a bit!), and he celebrates her eight fish as she celebrates his big catfish, with a family feast at the end. Wissinger defines poetry techniques and poetic forms in "The Poet's Tackle Box" at the end. Cordell's illustrations capture each character's emotions and personality perfectly. Loved all of it - it's a must for the classroom during April's celebration of poetry!
March 26, 2023
Sam is super excited to go fishing with his dad. He begins preparing the night before by digging night crawlers and checking his tackle box. Wait a minute...his tackle box is full of princesses and perfume! Lucy, his little sister has obviously been messing around with his stuff. You can imagine his dismay when she gets up the next morning and begs their father to take her fishing too. Sam knows the trip is ruined now. Sure enough, Lucy makes a lot of noise and even sings to the fish! Yet somehow, she catches more fish than Sam! As the day wears on Sam learns that Lucy doesn't mean any harm and their relationship and friendship grows.
This charming little story is told from three voices, Sam, Lucy and the father, using numerous styles of poetry. It is wonderful how well emotions and family dynamics can be demonstrated through just a few words. The black and white illustrations are a fabulous addition, adding even more to the characters. As an added bonus, there is a "Poet's Tackle Box" included at the end. Here the reader will learn about all the techniques and styles used within the book and how they can make their own poetry. This intermediate chapter book will be fun and accessible to kids 2nd grade on up.
This charming little story is told from three voices, Sam, Lucy and the father, using numerous styles of poetry. It is wonderful how well emotions and family dynamics can be demonstrated through just a few words. The black and white illustrations are a fabulous addition, adding even more to the characters. As an added bonus, there is a "Poet's Tackle Box" included at the end. Here the reader will learn about all the techniques and styles used within the book and how they can make their own poetry. This intermediate chapter book will be fun and accessible to kids 2nd grade on up.
June 30, 2013
Relying on a virtual poet's treasure chest of different poetic techniques and forms including haiku, limerick, list poems, an ode, and even a triolet, this delightful novel in verse will bring smiles to listeners' or readers' faces. In scenes familiar to many from their own experiences, nine-year-old Sam eagerly anticipates the fishing trip he and his father have planned. But his enthusiasm is considerably dampened when Lucy, his younger sister, joins them. To add insult to injury, she turns out to be great at fishing. The poems capture the day's high points and low points effectively, even describing the delicious meal enjoyed at the end of the day. The pen and ink and watercolor illustrations show the family dynamics perfectly while affording readers glimpses of the majestic scenery in which the family is fishing. Information on poetry is provided at the end of the book as a Poet's Tackle Box. Teachers will want to snare this title to share with their own students.
February 9, 2013
This was such a fantastic book that my 6-year-old and I wanted to read it in one sitting! (We settled for two--it was bedtime after all) The poems were really lovely and nicely constructed. Each one was labeled with the type of poem, which gave my daughter (and me!) a great and non-intrusive lesson into the wide variety of poems out there in the world.
My 6yo said this book was awesome, and as a parent, it was great to share some poetry with her. She learned how to read them aloud with proper rhythm, and stepped away from it with a greater appreciation for poetry.
For older kids, and myself, I loved the extras in the back where you can read about the different types of poems and learn how to put your own together. We were feeling quite inspired by the end.
Lovely illustrations and a great story with nice, sharply put together poems. This is a great read.
My 6yo said this book was awesome, and as a parent, it was great to share some poetry with her. She learned how to read them aloud with proper rhythm, and stepped away from it with a greater appreciation for poetry.
For older kids, and myself, I loved the extras in the back where you can read about the different types of poems and learn how to put your own together. We were feeling quite inspired by the end.
Lovely illustrations and a great story with nice, sharply put together poems. This is a great read.
April 13, 2013
This was a fun, fantastic verse novel. It would be a great addition to any upper elementary/middle school school teacher's library. Aside from telling the tale of a father/son fishing trip that's unexpectedly crashed by a little sister, this brief novel gives excellent explanations of the various poetic forms and figurative language techniques that it employs. Entertaining and accessible, I can see using this novel to introduce a poetry unit. I could also see it being read prior to a prose novel that relies heavily on figurative language, like Tuck Everlasting or Al Capone Does my Shirts. It's light and charming, yet it does a tremendous job of packing a ton of poetic devices into a deceptively short story. Definitely a winner in terms of this year's debut authors as well!
February 21, 2014
Finally, I was able to read this book. What a joyful story-telling, in verse, with field-like sketches of what’s going on during the fishing time. The books tells about a young boy, Sam, who is so excited to be going fishing with his dad until his little sister, Lucy, talks Dad into coming, too. The jealousy of big brother to little sister keeps the tension going until at last Sam realizes that Lucy has done a nice thing for him, and he should be happy to have such a loving sister. Clever is writer Tamera Wissinger, for each poem is labeled as to structure, and the back of the book explains about the structural terms used, plus more about how poetry works. It’s a perfect book for young students who loves to write and want to know more!
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