I received some terrible news a couple of weeks ago–my editor is leaving Clarion. In fact, Friday was her last day. She resigned because of a family move away from NYC, and I don’t even know if she’ll be able to remain in children’s publishing at all. This is devastating news–she has been such a support and encourager these past couple of years. I’m worried about the future of my books there, and at the possible loss of another poetry-loving editor.
And speaking of worries…
My kids start school September 8, so this is the last week of summer for us (yay!). Each day, I’m going to share an original, unpublished poem related to school, and today’s list poem is all about worries.
What If Ninth Grade Is a Disaster?
What if…
…I miss a pouffy spot when I straighten my hair?
…My mom hollers, “I love you! Have a great day!” as I slink down the driveway.
…She doesn’t?
…I leave my violin on the bus?
…My locker is upstairs?
…Seniors trip me in the hall?
…I get "Public Speaking and You" as my elective, not "Funky Clothing Design"?
…I do not know a single, solitary person in any of my classes?
…Chad Behr is in my Public Speaking class, and I gasp for air and pass out?
…We have stew for lunch (how could there be leftovers already!)?
…It rains, and my hair totally frizzes out?
…Nobody else has the same clothes as me?
…Everybody else has the same clothes as me?
…The speech therapist recognizes me from summer and says hi in the hallway?
…I just pretend to be sick?
…I really get sick?
…I’m still the shortest person in my grade?
…My pants rip (they’re the tiniest bit tight)?
…I miss the bus because I’m safety pinning my pants in the girls’ room?
…My dad tells me again how exciting the first day of school should be?
–Laura Purdie Salas, all rights reserved
Next week, I’ll be sharing some of my favorite school-themed poetry collections, old and brand new, including J. Patrick Lewis’ Countdown to Summer.