An anthology of poems for young adults that, in the words of compiler Liz Rosenberg, “gather light--either literally or figuratively.” Opening with words to “Follow the Drinking Gourd,” an African American spiritual that speaks of freedom and references the light of the stars, the poems move back and forth across continents and centuries. Many of them are challenging, but a thematic anthology always provides readers with a starting point for understanding why a poem was chosen for inclusion. Rosenberg’s introduction gives added insights. Her selections range from Robert Frost’s “Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening” to Christina Rossetti’s “Hurt No Living Thing” to Angelina Grimkés “The Black Finger” and many others. It is a rich and varied collection and includes a biographical sketch of each of the poets. (Age 13 and older)