Locomotion is a beautifully written novel by Jacqueline Woodson who is writing as the young boy living in a foster home, Locomotion. Locomotion lost his parents in a fire and has been separated from his sister through the foster care program. His teacher helps him to discover his voice through writing poetry. He reflects on memories of his parents and what his life is like now in his foster home.

This novel is written as many free verse poems (and some Haiku) compiled to tell a story. They are all written by Locomotion thoughtfully reflecting on his life. The poems do not have a particular rhythm, but they leave a lasting impression on the reader. Locomotion says at one point that a poem is your most important thoughts, and writing free verse is the best because you can change your sentences around to show what is most important as the author. And this point comes through strongly in the story.

Each poem is artfully constructed and placed in order in a way that tells this young boys story very thoughtfully. This book would be excellent as a read aloud to help students enhance their interest in poetry, and also to help gain an understanding of what life is like for children in foster care. It can help students have someone they feel they can relate to, or open their eyes to a new situation. There are many benefits to reading this story, and I think it will really open up our students' eyes to a different type of poetry, I know it did mine!