Shel Silverstein Books In Order

Publication Order of Billy Sook Books

Publication Order of The Missing Piece Books

Publication Order of Standalone Novels

Publication Order of Plays

Publication Order of Chapbooks

Publication Order of Picture Books

Publication Order of Collections

Publication Order of Non-Fiction Books

Publication Order of David Mamet Collected Plays

Publication Order of Anthologies

Shel Silverstein
Shel Silverstein was an American composer, cartoonist, screenwriter, musician, and celebrated author of children’s books. Silverstein’s genius showed in everything he touched, and some of his children’s books are still celebrated decades after they were first published. His songwriting earned him a nomination for the Oscars, while he won a Grammy for his outstanding works. The talented author’s debut book, Lafcadio, the Lion Who Shot Back, was first published in 1963, followed by four others in 1964. In 1974, Where the Sidewalk Ends was published, and A Light in the Attic came much later in 1981. Silverstein died in 1999.

A Light in the Attic
A Light in the Attic is a poem collection about monsters, clowns, pirates, and everything in between. The witty writing and silly characters are sure to entertain the young ones with their shenanigans. There is some suggestive and morbid content but not anything children six years and older will not be delighted about. However, you may have to explain death in poems like Little Abigail or the meaning of kidnapping. These issues are covered in a silly way, so you have nothing to worry about if your child understands humor. The language is simple, and everything is explained in a way that young readers can understand.

From the poems, it’s evident that the author is talented. His wit shines through the page, and his humor is clear from the characters he develops to the things he highlights. All illustrations are highly creative, and the poems answer most of the children’s wild imaginations. What if you could drown in your tears, or you were to be kidnapped by a Barbazzoop? Images are in black in white, yet they bring out the best of the characters they represent. You will enjoy the wordplay in these whimsical poems, not to mention the memorable characters. The words alone paint a picture of the topic in the poem, while the illustrations make it possible for the reader to form a personal connection to the characters.

Most of the poems here are short and will take a few minutes to read. The language is simple, making this an ideal book for teaching poetry to young readers. It is fantastic that the author emphasizes goodness, kindness, and being happy. You will enjoy following the characters as they learn and discover new things within a few short lines. While the book was published several decades ago, there is a lot for the kids and young at heart to enjoy. You can be sure that you will have a massive smile on your face anytime you read a poem from the collection.

A light in the Attic is an intriguing children’s story comprising silly poems by characters who are not afraid to do crazy stunts. The book features talking animals, magicians, and monsters, and other bizarre creatures. It is a perfect choice for children above six years or any adult who wants to feel like a kid again. There are some creepy and sad bits, but these are necessary for the children as they help make sense of the world and its realities. It is also refreshing that most of the poems are funny enough to make you laugh and brighten your days.

Where the Sidewalk Ends
Where the Sidewalk Ends is one of Shel Silverstein’s most celebrated works, and for a good reason too. The book comprises funny poems with memorable characters, great flow, and big lessons. In this book, the author’s world begins, and with it comes a boy who turns into a TV, a girl who manages to eat a whale, and a crocodile who visits the dentist, among other interesting characters. In Silverstein’s world, everything is possible. Sisters can be auctioned, it is possible to wash your shadow, and naughty kids who will not take out the garbage exist. The good thing is that all poems end humorously, so there is a lot to giggle and laugh about.

In addition to the humorous characters, these poems come with rhyme and rhythm. They are a joy to read aloud or curl up to late at night when you feel like thinking of something that happened a long time ago. Most of the poems address common concerns with kids and the things they fancy. It is fun joining the characters in their adventures and exploring a world where animals can talk, have emotions, a daily routine, just like humans. There are also human characters, and the author lets us into their private thoughts and lives. From the poem, it is clear how differently children see things and life in general. There are no preconceived notions in this author’s world, so interacting with common occurrences like it is the first time is fun.

This is a collection of profound and outrageously funny classic poetry. The poems are written with kids in mind, but there are many things to enjoy, even as adults. Even you read the book as a kid a child, you will still enjoy it decades later. It’s one of those books that has something new to offer every time you pick it. Silverstein’s world of fantasy and freedom is admirable, and the charm and beauty in it will hold you captive to the last page. It is also notable that the author encourages kindness in a world where almost everyone is concerned about themselves and no one else.

Where the Sidewalk Ends is yet another dive into the author’s fantasy world. He will introduce many characters on these pages, and it will be hard to forget them all. Silverstein writes with such heart that you can cry over his one-page poems. There is also a lot to enjoy, so do not be surprised if you find yourself laughing maniacally at some of the happenings in the poems. There are some intriguing illustrations with most poems that will only make your imagination grow wilder. If you want to get back to that beautiful place called childhood, this book is perfect. It’s also a perfect gift for a curious child, seven years and older.

One Response to “Shel Silverstein”

1. Jason C Bernal: 2 years ago

   I’ve read his poems since i was a child. The first poem I ever memorized was icklme pickle tickle too

   Reply