Stories and Poems for Extremely Intelligent Children of All Ages : Book Review

"Stories and Poems for Extremely Intelligent Children of All Ages" by Harold Bloom is an enthralling collection that caters to the intellectually curious minds of young readers. It offers a diverse range of stories and poems carefully curated to engage and challenge young readers of all levels. Bloom's deep understanding and appreciation for literature is evident as he includes works from renowned authors such as William Shakespeare, Emily Dickinson, and Edgar Allan Poe. This collection stimulates critical thinking and encourages readers to explore complex themes and ideas.

One of the standout features of this book is Bloom's insightful commentary before each story and poem. His commentary provides valuable context, background information, and analysis that enhance the reading experience. Bloom's vast knowledge and passion for literature shine through in his discussions, allowing readers to develop a deeper understanding and appreciation for the works presented.

What sets this collection apart is its commitment to challenging young readers. Bloom does not shy away from including complex or thought-provoking pieces, believing in the intelligence of children and their ability to grapple with profound ideas. This approach empowers young readers to expand their intellectual horizons and encourages them to tackle literature beyond their comfort zone.

Additionally, the selection of stories and poems in this book encompasses various genres and time periods, introducing young readers to a wide range of literary styles and voices. From classic fairy tales to modern poetry, this collection exposes children to different writing techniques and helps them develop a well-rounded literary palate.

"Stories and Poems for Extremely Intelligent Children of All Ages" by Harold Bloom is a remarkable compilation that both educates and entertains young readers. With its thought-provoking content, insightful commentary, and diverse selection of works, this book serves as a gateway for children to explore the endless possibilities of literature and expand their intellectual abilities. It is a must-read for any young reader who seeks intellectual stimulation and a deeper engagement with literature.

What are readers saying?

"Stories and Poems for Extremely Intelligent Children of All Ages" written by Harold Bloom has received a range of opinions from readers. Aimed at engaging intellectually gifted children, the book has both its supporters and detractors.

Many reviewers commend the book for its carefully curated collection of stories and poems. They appreciate the challenging and stimulating content that caters to the intellectual capacities of gifted children. The book is seen as a valuable resource for expanding children's literary horizons and fostering analytical thinking. Bloom's expertise as a renowned literary critic is highly regarded, as his insightful commentary offers additional depth to the selected works.

On the other hand, some reviewers express disappointment with the book, believing it falls short of its promise. They find the content too dense and overwhelming for young readers, suggesting it may only be suitable for older children. Others feel that the selection of texts lacks diversity in terms of cultural representation and genres. Additionally, some readers find Bloom's commentaries to be too academic and inaccessible for the intended audience.

Furthermore, a number of reviewers note that the book may not capture the imagination and sense of wonder that children often seek in literature. While the content may be intellectually stimulating, it may not engage and captivate children as much as expected.

Overall, "Stories and Poems for Extremely Intelligent Children of All Ages" receives a mix of positive and negative reviews. The challenging content and insightful commentaries are appreciated by some, while others find the book lacking in accessibility and engaging storytelling. Ultimately, the suitability and appeal of this collection may vary depending on individual children's interests and reading levels.

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