From Mother Goose to poems of epic proportions, the very best writers have appeared to enlighten and enchant the child adventurer hidden in each of us. My first book was a collection of nursery rhymes, and the first book I checked out of the library was one of Dr. Seuss's rhymed stories. Lucky me to continue an enjoyment of poetry through those poems introduced every school year from second grade onward in class and on my own. Poetry often seems difficult for the average person to compose, but author Charles Ghigna (a.k.a. "Father Goose") says that "We are all poets....We are poets whenever we tell the world who we are, what we think, and how we feel." If you ask him "when did you begin writing poetry?" he will respond with the question, "When did you quit?" 

Ghigna has published more than 100 books for all ages as well as more than 5,000 poems. Most of his books have been written for children. He states that, "To write for children, one must write from the child within." It is this philosophy that has made him one of the most popular and prolific authors today. The "child within" is still learning and marveling at the wondrous world they see every day. Ghigna celebrates the joy of being a child in the midst of nature. His latest book, Love is Everything (published the end of this month), is a reassuring chorus that there is good in all things, bringing "a message of hope and encouragement for reminding kids to believe in themselves."

Nashville Public Library's catalog lists 18 of Charles Ghigna's books.  A selection appears below.  Check it out!