"Rakish humor, easily interpreted illustrations, a variety of credible voices that appeal to children - these are the hallmarks of Shel Silverstein's poetry for children. With Where the Sidewalk Ends (1974) and A Light in the Attic (1981), Silverstein has achieved unprecedented success and longevity in a highly competitive field. In these collections Silverstein addresses life's pleasures and pitfalls by focusing on a schoolchild's humor; employing simple cartoons and mischievous jokes, he mentions the unmentionable but never preaches. With these books and others such as The Giving Tree (1964), Silverstein has brought poetry to generations of children who would otherwise avoid it." "In this first book-length study devoted to Silverstein, Ruth K. MacDonald presents a thought-provoking appreciation of Shel Silverstein's contributions to children's literature, particularly children's poetry and humor. Arguing that Silverstein's works "will endure because they speak for children so precisely and without historical limitations," MacDonald gives much attention to the poetry collections while also treating the picture books and other works that preceded and followed them." "A balanced assessment of a forceful and provocative voice in children's literature, Shel Silverstein will appeal to students and teachers at the secondary and college levels and find a ready niche in courses on popular culture, children's literature, and elementary education and reading. Included in the volume are a preface, chronology, notes and references, selected bibliography, and index."--BOOK JACKET.