Papa Is a Poet

In this iconographic-animated adaptation of the 2013 picture book by Natalie S. Bober and illustrator Rebecca Gibbon, the titular “Papa” is American poet Robert Frost. Narrated by Ammi-Joan Paquette and featuring music by John Jennings, the story—told from the perspective of Frost's oldest daughter, Lesley—centers on the Frost family's bucolic life on the Derry, NH, farm that Frost's grandfather bought for him. Lesley describes beautiful days of familial closeness, helping her father gather eggs from the chickens, exploring with siblings, Sunday picnics, and family reading sessions. Lesley also talks about her father's disappointment during this time—when his poetry largely went unpublished—and how a move to England for a year changed all that. There is no hint here of the mental illness, depression, or many deaths that plagued the Frost family, but the tale's theme does suggest how he rose above his family of origin's perception of him as a failure. Also including a read-along option, this fine introduction to an American master is highly recommended. Aud: E, P. (T. Keogh)