INTRODUCTION THE poems of Eugene Field appeal to the natural instincts of childhood. He is distinctly the poet of the young. His poems abound in sentiments and allusions which touch life and experience at an early period. "Verse preceded prose in the literary evolution of the race; by reason of both form and substance it should be the staple of literary diet and primary education." In reading poetry to little children, it is well to bear in mind that many selections may be made enjoyable, and that much profit may be derived, even though the meaning may not be grasped in its entirety. Children love to listen to the reading of poems and of stories in which the human element plays an important part; especially is this true when the sports, games, experiences, and life, through which most children pass, are made prominent features. Rhythm is natural to children. The melodic swing of words and phrases-the jingle-arouse interest, stimulate attention, and pave the way to more formal work. In the book here presented, great care has been exercised in the selection of the poems upon which the reading lessons stand. The stories which these poems tell constitute the elements which are to open the door into the reading world. This book is intended for use during the first year of children at school. The lessons are regularly graded, and the progressive steps are natural and logical. The subject matter deals with the things with which childhood is almost constantly surrounded. It will thus be seen that the children are not only dwelling in a real, tangible world-talking about real things-but in addition, that they are constantly journeying into a shadow world--the world of imagination-in which are spent the happiest moments of childlife. · The book is pedagogical in that it recognizes that interest lies at the foundation of mental growth. With this end in view, it is suggested that the story of the poem be first told by the teacher. This should be followed by its reading by the teacher. Then opportunity should be given for expression on the part of the children. This should consist of oral reproduction, of illustrations with the brush, blackboard sketches, and by cutting. Children love to act. The dramatizing instinct develops the imagination, and may serve as an |