Mary Oliver, Holding on to Wonder

by Erin Frankel, Jasu Hu (illustrator)

This lyrical picture book biography of beloved American poet Mary Oliver shows young readers ages 7 - 10 how her love of nature and sense of wonder inspired her art.

Young Mary Oliver was enthralled by nature. In the forest, she wondered about the birds and the lilies and the water in the stream—about all the things that cannot speak yet somehow spoke to Mary. She wondered, too, about poetry, about how words pieced together filled her with light and how some poems felt like they were written just for her. How could this be? 

Author Erin Frankel shows how Mary Oliver held on to that sense of wonder from her childhood, channeling it into some of the most beloved poems of the past hundred years. Illustrator Jasu Hu’s lush nature scenes beautifully complement Frankel’s soulful writing about the creative process. Together text and art honor Mary Oliver and her astonishing poetry.

Genres: Picture Books, Biography, Poetry, Childrens, Nonfiction, Nature

48 pages, Hardcover

Published October 14, 2025

About the author

Erin Frankel is a children’s book author. She loves telling stories of empathy and wonder. Her picture books include A Plate of Hope: The Inspiring Story of Chef José Andrés and World Central Kitchen, which is an Orbis Pictus Award Recommended Title and a Texas Blue Bonnet Award Nominee, as well as Remembering Barkley, and the Weird! series. Forthcoming titles include Mary Oliver, Holding on to Wonder (2025) and Piece by Piece: How Stephen Sondheim Made Musical Puzzles Come Alive (2026). Erin lives with her family in Pittsburgh, where she writes, teaches, and hopes. She is represented by Lindsay Auld at Writers House. You can also connect with her on Instagram @erinfrankelwrites

Reviews

[Aolund · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was really happy to see a picture book biography of Mary Oliver, and hope there are more to come! This was a solid first entry. After reading the back text, I respect the author's decision to leave out some biographical details of Oliver's life in respect for her private nature, but I also think something was lost in only sharing, particularly about her childhood, Oliver's love for nature. While I appreciate the inclusion of Molly Malone Cook in the story, it would have been a stronger choice to name that Mary and Molly were in love, rather than the more vague phrasings opted for by Frankel (the two "met," and had "a life together"--not untrue, but part of how we show children that there is nothing shameful in lesbian/queer relationships is to name them clearly). All this being said, this is a decent book and I certainly hope it serves as a bridge in introducing more young readers to Oliver's poetry.

Age range: Elementary

[kellymross · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a truly beautiful and heartfelt homage to Mary Oliver. Readers who admire her insightful poetry will undoubtedly be drawn to this loving tribute. The thoughtful inclusion of accompanying materials and author's notes at the end provides valuable context and deepens the appreciation for Oliver's work. Moreover, the stunning illustrations perfectly complement the text, creating a visually rich experience. It's evident the author holds Mary Oliver in the highest regard, and this book serves as a wonderful reminder of her enduring impact. My thanks to NetGalley for the advance copy.

[Katy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lovely book and illustrations

[Moonkiszt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Featured in a reads with Grandma session. . .

Mary Oliver, Holding on to Wonder was shared today with two of my grandkids - we read books and worldle together twice a week via zoom since our homes are thousands of miles apart (so glad we live in these times!). I was pleased to have this ARC in my TBR, and had read and gone through the exquisite illustrations myself a number of in the last few weeks, and decided this was one to put to the test with the experts.

I went through the usual spiel when introducing a book I want them to consider critically - focusing on the text - words and phrases chosen by the author, and to take longer looks at the illustrations chosen to pair up with that particular set of words, and then vote at the end, using the five star scale. It was a delight for this grandmother to wander with purpose through this book with my own people who I know so well, to see and learn how their minds were working while processing the engaging plea of Mary Oliver as translated/echoed by Erin Frankel the author - to consider poetry as a means of accessing that mindblower (Wonder!). Masterfully done, I must say.

I often find in children's picture books that I'll quickly determine that either the text or illustrations will be preferred over the other (if it is an author/illustrator they usually strike a closer balance). But for me, and for my own kidlets, the illustrator's artistry was exactingly done - in watercolor! not usually an exact medium. . .still this was so perfectly paired with the words/worlds on the page we were entranced. . .me for the fourth or fifth time, and my guys for this first time. We loved this book. The words-to-art balance is Harmonic in this book. We talked about Mary Oliver, and granddau suggested we read poems as part of our reading sessions - and so I will begin this week with one of Mary Oliver's poems to present them.

Choosing this for your read will prove an exquisite way to introduce yourself or your youngers to Mary Oliver, to poetry, to writing, to nature, to art, or just to enjoy something different than you usually read. All three of us recommend this book to you with our 15 stars, hands extended and fingers widespread!

*A sincere thank you to Author Erin Frankel, Illustrator Jasu Hu, Astra Publishing House | Calkins Creek, and NetGalley for an ARC to read and review independently.* MaryOliverHoldingontoWonder #NetGalley 25|52:3e

[YSBR · Rating 4 out of 5]

In this picture book biography of Pulitzer Prize-winning poet Mary Oliver, Frankel celebrates her love of nature and the reflection of that engagement in her work. We first see Mary as a young girl, full of “wonder” as she sits beneath a tree in the forest, notebook in hand. Hu’s delicate digital illustrations resemble watercolor and their organic look perfectly captures the woods, streams, and fields that engage Mary’s imagination. Frankel details highlights of the poet’s life, including her work as an archivist for the estate of Edna St. Vincent Millay, her relationship with her partner Molly Malone Cook, her move to Cape Cod, and her teaching career. The relationship between Oliver and Cook is covered in a casual and open fashion, a wonderful look at a committed same-sex couple. Oliver’s devotion to her many dogs is reflected in their frequent appearance in the delicate full-page bleeds; we see her dancing, walking, and sitting with them. The language of the book is quite lyrical and captures the feeling and rhythm of Oliver’s poetry: “she hid pencils behind trees so she would always be prepared. Foxes and moon snails; black bears and owls; snow crickets and goldfinches; sunflowers and ponds – Mary wrote on and on.” Back matter includes a lengthy author’s note, a detailed timeline, a select bibliography, and a resource list of Frankel’s favorite poems by Oliver. Link to complete review: https://ysbookreviews.wordpress.com/2...

[Jan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mary Oliver is an American poet known for her continuing joy and feelings of awesome wonder at the incredible world of nature. She enjoyed poetry and learned to share with others the awesomeness of the natural world through poetry.
The illustrations by Jasu Hu are intricate, imaginative, and meaningful in brushed colors.
Well suited for reading alone or WITH someone of any age, including ESL, and great for gifting to EVERYone, but especially to a school, waiting room, or your local public library!
I requested and received a temporary uncorrected digital galley from Astra Publishing House | Calkins Creek via NetGalley. *****review #bookbub #goodreads #storygraph @librarythingofficial
#MaryOliverHoldingontoWonder by @erinfrankelwrites and illustrated by @jasuhuart #maryoliver
@astrakidsbooks #CalkinsCreek #NetGalley #Astrapublishing @childrensbookcouncil #nature
#storytelling #picturebook #illustration #imagination #sharing #caring #changinglives #kidlit#watercolors #bookshop_org #bookshop_org_uk #indiebookstoresca #kindness #hope #poetry #illustration #picturebook #poetry #picturebookillustration #childrensbook #wonder #naturebooksforkids #naturebooksforkids #nonfictionbooksforkids #nonfictionpicturebooks

[Joey Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you so much to Astra Publishing House/ Calkins Creek and Netgalley for the ebook to read and review.

This was a really stunning way to share Mary Oliver’s Biography. It captured the essence of who she was and how she lived. Shared the wonders she had about the world and about nature.

I really enjoyed the beautiful illustrations throughout, seeing the nature that Mary herself loved, adored and was inspired by, I loved seeing her in her happiest places, creating her beautiful poems.

I really enjoyed getting to learn so much more about her and have it be done in such a wonderful way. From the facts through the story, but also all the additional facts at the end too really added to it.

A very stunningly created book on a writer whose work still connects with people to this day. It’s wonderful to learn about who the person behind the work really was and this was done so perfectly.

[Songie · Rating 5 out of 5]

A lovely short read, perfect for kids!
Mary Oliver’s poetry is a reminder to appreciate what’s around you (even the smallest of leafs, flowers, bugs, or birds on the horizon). This book does a great job at portraying the life of Mary Oliver, whilst maintaining the language simple and engaging for children. The illustrations are wonderful, I adore the color usage as well!
One can only hope to instill that sense of whimsy, gratefulness, and the very concept of looking with wonder at the world in those around us. I’d like to think that having been introduced to her poetry earlier on in life, would have served as a bright light through growing up, coming of age, and engaging with the world.

Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read this in exchange for an honest review!

[Cuppa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mary Oliver, Holding on the Wonder, is a lush, dreamy picture book by Erin Frankel that introduces readers to the life of beloved American poet Mary Oliver. The book takes readers through Oliver's life, showing how nature produced a sense of wonder, inspiration, and comfort for her. Oliver spent much of her time in nature and channeled her love for it into amazing poetry. Illustrator Jasu Hu gives us beautiful illustrations in a lovely color palette that complements the moods of the story. This book provides a nice introduction to the poet for children and adults. Thank you to Calkins Creek and Netgalley for providing the galley for me to review.

[Panda Incognito · Rating 4 out of 5]

This gorgeously illustrated picture book biography celebrates Mary Oliver's life and legacy, highlighting her love of nature and her pursuit of wonder in everyday life. It also touches on her personal life, including her many years of romantic partnership with another woman.

The watercolor illustrations are breathtaking, and the text is both informative and lyrical. The backmatter at the end shares some additional details, including a timeline. This will appeal to fans of Oliver, and to people who are looking for books that teach children about poets and poetry.

I received a temporary digital copy from NetGalley, and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

[Brenda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mary Oliver, holding on to wonder, is a beautifully illustrated biography written for children. Children will be captivated by the amazing illustrations, the movement, the colors! That biography details Mary's discovery of and lifelong Love for nature. Her discovery of writing and then her desire to share her poetry about nature. I'm not sure how much meaning the story will have to younger children but the narrative is simple enough and the illustrations will definitely capture their attention and may spark conversation that could foster a lifelong love of the natural world for them as well.

[Sara · Rating 5 out of 5]

The beautifully illustrated children's book explores the early life of the award-winning American poet, Mary Oliver. From her early years soaking in the beauty of nature to her career as a poet, Mary used words to catch and keep the images and feelings she experienced through her surroundings. Children will delight in the colorful, whimsical illustrations, and adults will enjoy a look into the makings of a poet and wonder if they, too, can make poems as beautiful and haunting as the words Mary Oliver crafted. My thanks to the publisher for an ARC.

[Vicki · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lush, gorgeous illustrations accompany a beautiful tribute to the esteemed poet Mary Oliver. We follow her life from a young, creative girl in the woods she loved so much to her quiet, private life in Cape Cod. The author does a wonderful job of conveying Oliver's wonder and curiosity at the world, showing how she sought the gift of questioning more than the answers and translated both into award-winning, deeply resounding poetry.

Thank you to NetGalley and the author for providing me with a free eARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Tracy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mary Oliver, Holding on to Wonder is a beautiful picture book biography of Mary Oliver. The reader follows young Mary exploring nature on her own to her realizing that her poetry shows others the wonder of nature. The simple narrative manages to convey her life-long love of the natural world, her poetic gift and her desire to live the simple life she loved.

Thank you to Edeweiss for the digital arc.
The publish date is October 14, 2025

[Theresa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mary Oliver, Holding on to Wonder (Kindle Edition)
by Erin Frankel
a look at a renown poet that used her skills to share nature with the world. Mary Oliver loved nature and used her ability to craft words to share that love. She dreamed all her life of questions that she did not always get and answer. This book uses watercolor art to show her life and ideals, and shares how she viewed the world and captured it to change the worlds view of these places.

[Paige Slovisky · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and Astra Publishing House for this book to read and review.

I thought this was such a sweet tribute to Mary’s amazing life. I have always loved her poems, but I did not know much about her story. I loved learning about how she got started as a poet! The whimsical illustrations invoke the same wonder and excitement for nature that Mary’s best poems do. Overall, this account of her life made me want to revisit her poetry and enjoy her life’s work!

[Danielle Mccoy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a copy of this eBook from netGalley for a honest review.

I love Mary Oliver as a poet, she's one of the few that speaks to my heart and gets me to feel easily with just a few words. This picture book is a love letter of a story about her life and poems. It is beautifully written and illustrated. I'd say this book is a must read for any of Mary's fans and kids who love nature and words.

[MD Knabb · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dreamy illustrations complement the tone of this picture book biography of Mary Oliver. Young readers can read how they might have the same love and curiosity about nature that Mary had as a child. As they learn about her journey into poetry, they may be inspired to write down their thoughts, play with words, and be a conscious observer of the world around them. A highly recommended title for nature lovers, young writers and curious kids.

[Laura]

I really struggled to read this one aloud. The rhyme and rhythm didn't flow naturally for me, and I ended up going back to various Mary Oliver poems to see if it was mimicking something but I didn't find connection there.

The illustrations are lovely and it's a fine picture book biography, but I feel like I was maybe missing something for how the words were meant to scan.

[Morgan the Librarian · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was beautiful and the author clearly put a lot of thought into writing this biography of the beloved poet, focusing on the world and how she adored it more than the life she kept private for so long. The illustrations are a perfect accompaniment to the book and it's a great introduction to Oliver for younger readers. Wonderful!

[Libby · Rating 3 out of 5]

One of those books that is beautiful but I don't think it works for the intended audience. It would definitely need an adult poetry lover to introduce both the poet and the book to young readers.

Review based on a DRC received through NetGalley.

[M. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Interestingly, Mary Oliver was told that she used the word "beautiful" too often in her poetry, but that is the first word that comes to mind with this lovely book. The art is digital in the form of a watercolor that is perfect for its subject.

Thank you to Astra books for this gifted copy!

[Molly Kavanaugh · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautifully illustrated book for the young wanna-be poets in your life, about the "wonder lens" that Mary Oliver looked through all her life, beginning as a child in Northeast Ohio. ch inspired Ohio native poet Mary Oliver.

[Gabby Cadahia · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a poem. Children and adults alike will find their way through forests and through Mary Oliver’s soft life back to wonder.

[Diana · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beautifully illustrated picture biography of American Poet Mary Oliver. I confess I knew nothing of her work but now I want to read some of her poems.

[Abbigail · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a very nice picture book biography about a modern classic poet who was and is so loved. Very extensive backmatter with an author's note, timeline, bibliography and more.

[Katie · Rating 3 out of 5]

I love Mary Oliver. She was a notoriously private person, and I think what I missed most from this were the harder parts of her life that she shared. For example, Frankel spends plenty of time discussing Oliver's love of the outdoors as a child... but skips over the abuse she suffered. We hear about her partner, Molly, but only in vague details.