This week we read George Ella Lyon’s “Where I’m From.”
Normally, we find ourselves saying things like “I’m from Chicago,” but this poems shows that if you describe all the little things your from–the objects, the smells, the names, and foods–a rich family photo emerges.
It is a pleasure to see all the tiny histories that make up a whole person. Enjoy!
Ms. Brown
5th Grade
Where I’m From
Angel S.
I’m from a piece of pie
and strawberries
from cake
and turkey
I’m from Texas
and hiding behind the dryer
I’m from mom’s stomach
and I know you are,
but what am I?
Where I’m From
Sonia R.
I’m from dirty laundry
and dirty feet
I’m from the trees beyond
the forest that
can hold 300 years
I’m from the snow fight
that really hurts
and from the snow angels
I’m from the Riverside mall
and from the know-it-alls
and the do-it-alls
Where I’m From
Yarelis T.
I’m from Ohio
and tacos
from air freshener
and Abuela Blanca
I’m from Chicago
and my brother’s horrible cologne
from Samantha
and Puerto Rico
I’m from tamales
and Mexico
from Ham
and the smell of tacos
Mr. Batlle
4th Grade
Where I’m From
Melany R.
I’m from Chicago
and
I’m from New York
and loca loca
and
I’m from Big Max’s Belly
Where I’m From
David D.
I’m from arroz con leche
and Norma
I’m from the smell of chocolate pancakes
from Chicago and Mexico
Where I’m From
Daelyn B.
I’m from Nebraska
and Belkis
I’m from the smell of perfume
and Mars
I’m from Jackie
and Do your homework
I’m from pizza
and Clorox
Mr. Koltak
6th Grade
Where I’m From
Isaiah G.
I’m from rice and beans, chicken
and Puerto Rico
from Lissette and Luis
and Chicago
I’m from strawberries
and fresh food
from laundry
and pizza
Where I’m From
Jasmine T.
I’m from tamales
and Mexico
from smells like roses
and Chicago, Illinois
I’m from tacos
and Chicago, Illinois
from smells like wind
and Mexico
Where I’m From
Eduardo V.
I’m from enchiladas
and Puerto Rico
from the smell of strawberries
and Alabama
I’m from Mexico
and fresh food
from nachos
and tamales
