Goldfinches
by Mary Oliver
art by Melissa Sweet
Viking, 2026. 36 pages.
Review written April 20, 2026, from a library book.
Starred Review
This little book is a poem by Mary Oliver – illustrated by Caldecott Honor illustrator Melissa Sweet. The poem about goldfinches shows the author observing in fields as goldfinches fly by and make their nests. Then a note at the back explains how Mary Oliver did just that – and Melissa Sweet imitated her to make authentic pictures.
I also enjoyed how the artist put a palette of colors at the front, labeled with phrases from the poem, and you can find them later in the book.
But of course what I love most is the poem, which grew on me more each time I read it – and Melissa Sweet’s illustrations helped me appreciate it more from the start.
Here’s how the poem ends:
Is it necessary to say any more?
Have you heard them singing in the wind, above the final fields?
Have you ever been so happy in your life?
This book has the power to fill you with peace and happiness and send you out to nature to find even more.
MaryOliver.com
MelissaSweet.net
Penguin.com/kids
Find this review on Sonderbooks at: www.sonderbooks.com/Childrens_Nonfiction/goldfinches.html
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Disclaimer: I am a professional librarian, but the views expressed are solely my own, and in no way represent the official views of my employer or of any committee or group of which I am part.
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