The Flag of Childhood, Poems from the Middle East

The Flag of Childhood, Poems from the Middle East

Selected by Naomi Shihab Nye

Through her compelling collection of sixty poems from authors of the middle east, Naomi Shihab Nye attempts to defuse some of the cultural and racial tension that has persisted in America since the attacks on the World Trade Centers in 2001. While many Americans have been left with negative, generalized stereotype towards members of the Middle Eastern community, Naomi combats these attitudes by giving voice to members of these varying communities, who relate their connection with a common humanity through different poems.

Each poem in this anthology offers a new and valuable perspective, from authors of Palestine, Israel, Egypt, Iraq, and many other nations of the Middle East.  Many of which deal with the themes of love, family, belonging, and equality, which help break down the cultural barriers that exist today.

These poems, of which many are translated into English, are generally easy to read, making it appropriate for middle school level classrooms. The poems can be used to teach a number of poetic and literary devices, since each author employs their own stylistic choices. Since it deals with such serious and prevalent issues in American society today, this book has great potential for fostering class discussion while also shedding light on varying cultural perspectives.