Lush and evocative, this treasury of Walt Whitman's classic poetry will be a household favorite for generations. Bound and curated, this full-color collage illustrated beauty will educate young readers while delighting the senses.

Whitman is considered one of the most influential poets in American history. Incorporating both transendentalism and realism earned him the much lauded title of father of free verse, a form beloved among poets and students today. Whitman's influence remains strong in modern day poetry. Art historian Mary Berenson wrote, "You cannot really understand America without Walt Whitman." And modernist poet Ezra Pound called Whitman "America's poet... he is America."

Hand selected classics included in this collection include "O Captain! My Captain! ," "I Hear America Singing," and many other essentials. Brief commentary and helpful definitions accompany each poem, making The Illustrated Walt Whitman among the most accessible―and beautiful―introductions to Walt Whitman available.

Excerpts from the Introduction:

1: Enjoy the poems. This seems far more important than trying to puzzle out what the author meant (or what other people believe the author meant).

2: Engage with the poems by asking questions….

3: Be your own boss. Read the poems in order or jump around as you see fit. Share them or savor them all by yourself. Say them aloud or whisper their words in your heart.

Poetry makes life better. There is NO wrong way to experience a poem. So, read on, dear friend. And thank you for choosing poetry.

Ryan G. Van Cleave wrote his first poem at age five, and he’s been writing, reading, and loving poetry ever since. He earned a PhD in American literature with an emphasis in poetry and has taught at numerous colleges and universities. Currently, he runs the creative writing major at Ringling College of Art and Design. As The Picture Book Whisperer, he helps celebrities and high-profile clients write picture books and kidlit projects.