Mural on Second Avenue and Other City Poems

Brought to life through Roma Karas's simple, vibrant illustrations, this collection of poetry by Lilian Moore offers a loving tribute to small moments in the big city, and to the children who live there.

Lilian Moore had a lifetime of experience as an author of books for young readers — and a particular expertise for observing and celebrating life from a child's point of view. In this collection, seventeen poems speak to the joys and everyday wonders of city living, including the hush of a snowy morning, the grandeur of skyscrapers and bridges, the phantom faces reflected in store windows, and the transforming effects of a neighborhood mural painted "on the blank / unwindowed wall" by someone "dreaming / to the slap of a / wet brush."
Back matter includes an index of first lines.MURAL ON SECOND AVENUE: AND OTHER CITY POEMS collects previously published poems by Lilian Moore, with artwork as electric as the urban beat by Russian-born artist Roma Karas.
—Publishers Weekly

The joys of city life are extolled in a book whose charm lies in simple observations.
—Booklist

Conveying an idyllic but never sugary view of urban life, this gathering not only marks a strong debut for the illustrator, but highlights the timeless quality of so much of Moore's poetry.
—Kirkus Reviews

These poems speak loudly to children; their simply stated messages spread encouragement to fledgling writers.
—School Library Journal

Few surpass Lilian Moore's genius at translating experience and observation into poetry for the very young. Here the late poet's abillities are handsomely showcased.
—Horn Book, The

Moore, a master of translating everyday experiences into poems for children, describes summer rain, window shopping, construction, murals, and other city happenings.
—Book LinksLilian Moore (1909-2004) wrote many well-loved books for children, including I'll Meet You at the Cucumbers; Adam Mouse's Book of Poems; Don't be Afraid, Amanda; Poems Have Roots; Little Raccoon; and I'm Small. She was a recipient of the Award for Excellence in Poetry for Children from the National Council of Teachers of English.

Roma Karas was born in Russia, then moved to the USA where he attended the Rhode Island School of Design. He now lives in New York, where he works as an illustrator and bookmaker.