by Nikki Grimes

Yes! I am
rounder than most
which means
there is more of me
to love.
If you’re smart
you’ll cherish
my portrait
and me, see
how snugly I fit
in the pocket
of your heart.

Copyright © 1997 Nikki Grimes. From the book It’s Raining Laughter. Dial Books for Young Readers. Reprinted by permission of the author.

About this Poem

Children who are overweight tend to live such lonely lives, often feeling unloved, or that they don’t matter.  I wanted to write a poem that would remind them that they are loved for who they are inside, and to their loved ones, they are absolutely perfect.

About The Author

New York Times bestselling author Nikki Grimes is the recipient of the 2006 NCTE Award for Excellence in Poetry for Children. Her distinguished works include ALA Notable book What is Goodbye?, Coretta Scott King Award winner Bronx Masquerade, the novels Jazmin’s Notebook, Dark Sons, and The Road to Paris (Coretta Scott King Author Honor Books). Creator of the popular Meet Danitra Brown, Ms. Grimes lives in Corona, California.

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