My Journey Continues

Today is Edgar Allan Poe's birthday and the mystery of who leaves roses and cognac at his grave still intrigues many people. This fascination is a worry to some as they feel the mystery visitor may be frightened away by curious on-lookers. I find it very touching that someone takes the time to pay tribute to Poe and it saddens me to think this tradition may be stopped because of the thoughtless actions of others.

I have read many of Poe's works and it still amazes me how editors can take his works and market them toward children. His last poem, "Annabel Lee," is beautifully written and is believed to be a tribute to his late wife and the folks at Tundra Books have made it into a picture book aimed at children aged 4-8. Now I'm not sure I would have enjoyed this poem at that age but the illustrations are lovely and it is nice for mom and dad to have a book to read to their children that is just as enjoyable for them as it is for the little ones.

Another book aimed at the younger crowd is "Edgar Allan Poe's Tales of Mystery and Madness" and this one is a real treat because of the illustrations by Gris Grimly - a great name for an illustrator of gothic art.

Whether you read Poe as a child or as an adult you will agree there will "Nevermore" be an author as sublime as Poe.

Happy Birthday Mr. Poe.