Description
Book SynopsisYouth Poets documents an ethnographic study of the literacy learning of urban high school youth in June Jordan's Poetry for the People program. The book emphasizes how seven students adopted empowering literacies as they read, wrote, published, and performed poetry in and outside of school. Using a sociocultural and critical framework on literacy and pedagogy, the book focuses on the experiences of urban youth from their own perspectives to examine the various processes, products, and practices associated with poetry. It contributes to current research on literacy pedagogy in urban contexts, and further grounds connections between poetry production and academic and critical literacies. Not only does the research presented here support the use of poetry in itself, but it makes a case for the ways in which poetry can lead to transformative possibilities in diverse and multicultural classrooms.
Trade Review«How refreshing in this time of standardization and test frenzy to come across a book that celebrates poetry and the powerful impact it can have on the lives of young people. Kudos to Korina M. Jocson and the teachers and students with whom she worked for giving us this eloquent and poetic book!» (Sonia Nieto, Professor Emerita, Language, Literacy, and Culture, School of Education, University of Massachusetts, Amherst)
«This book is a powerful contribution to literacy research and practice. Korina M. Jocson’s deft weaving together of the different dimensions of her work portrays the passion of youth voice within the frame of rigorously conducted research and an awareness of the need for application in real settings. Her analyses speak to teachers, researchers, and students of teaching, and promise to make a far-reaching impact for years to come.» (Elizabeth Birr Moje, Arthur F. Thurnau Professor, School of Education, University of Michigan)
