Central Heating: poems about fire and warmth

Singer, Marilyn. 2005. Central Heating: Poems about fire and warmth. Ill. Meilo So. New York: Alfred A. Knopf. ISBN 0375829121

Marilyn Singer has created a wonderfully intense and thought-provoking book of poetry. Fire is the motif here; an inventive addition to the book’s two companion compilations about water and earth.

Each poem focuses on a different aspect of fire or warmth, and, in turn, reminds the reader of the ways fire amuses, frightens, teaches and interests us in nature, daily life and celebration.

Singer primarily uses free verse but uses rhyme and rhythm effectively, so the less conventional style of poetry is not awkward for younger readers. In “Forged,” she repeats the first lines throughout (with small changes) providing consistency: (To understand metal/make friends with fire)…(To understand fire/get to know wood)…(To understand metal/make friends with fire).

Each poem is given a two-page spread to share with the artwork of Meilo So. The exciting lino cuts and wash illustrations accompany the text in glowing, red images that well-suited to the individual poem and the motif.

Singer’s poems evoke powerful images and feelings, intensifying the varying significance fire can bring. These poems would fit well into some or all fire-safety, science, history, Independence Day, birthday, or mythology curriculums and/or celebrations.

The pace of the book is slow, and may be difficult for younger readers to attempt to read the book all at once, but will be a creative asset if read in small, thematic pieces.

"This title…belongs on library shelves everywhere" (School Library Journal/January 2005)

"Its engaging design will surely entice readers to open and read, perhaps in front of their own candle, hearth, or stove." (Kirkus Reviews/December 2004)