Random Body Parts

Book excerpt: Humorous, Shakespearean-inspired verse about body parts blends with whimsical art in this award-winning science poetry collection from Leslie Bulion. Leslie Bulion's award-winning volume of anatomical verse begins with an invitation to solve a series of poetic riddles: "Of course you have a body, / But do you have a clue / Where all the body parts you've got are found / And what they do?" Each poem that follows poses a puzzle in verse (with a sly wink and a nod to Shakespeare) and provides hints for uncovering the body part in question—from blood, bones, eyes, and the heart to the brain, pancreas, stomach, tongue, and more. Sidebars throughout offer additional facts, while appended notes offer a crash course on poetic form and a few facts about the Shakespearean works that inspired the verses. Mike Lowery's playful, original art adds context along with photographs and a diagram of the human body. A truly unique nonfiction title that's ideal for cross-curricular learning!