Woods & Words: The Story of Poet Mary Oliver

by Sara Holly Ackerman, Naoko Stoop (Illustrator)

This inspiring and enriching picture book biography explores the life and work of beloved poet Mary Oliver in its own uniquely lyrical way, shining a light on Mary’s belief that there are treasures and poems all around us in nature waiting to be discovered.

Young Mary Oliver spent all the time she could outdoors noticing natural wonders like alluring birdsong, velvety leaves, and glittering beams of sunlight. There were treasures all around if you paid attention. Eventually, she began writing about those treasures, filling up stacks of notebooks and capturing the world around her. There were always poems if you paid attention.

As Mary grew up and gained acclaim for her poetry, some critics said her poems were too simple, too ordinary. But Mary believed poems were for everyone. So she wrapped herself in woods and in woods, and kept on searching for what else and where else a poem might be…

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

40 pages, Hardcover

Published April 1, 2025

Reviews

[Mother Goose Librarian · Rating 5 out of 5]

Woods & Words: The Story of Poet Mary Oliver written by Sara Holly Ackerman and illustrated by Naoku Stoop is a lovely picture book biography. Readers will learn about how Oliver drew her inspiration from nature and the ordinary that is all around us. Critics of Mary Oliver’s work called her writing ordinary and believed poetry needed to be “fancy,” but she believed that poetry is for everyone. Ackerman beautifully tells Oliver’s life story. Her writing is poetic and straightforward. Stoop’s illustrations are double page spreads that reflect the artistry and detail of nature. The artwork is stunning. Back matter includes an author’s note and selected sources. Woods & Words is a wonderful gift for fans of Mary Oliver. It’s also a great read aloud when sharing Oliver’s poetry. I believe picture books are meant to be enjoyed by readers of all ages and this is a perfect example.

[Hannah Showalter · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of my favorite picture book biographies I've ever read, and I'm probably biased because it's about Mary Oliver, but. The artwork was so stunning; the little illustrations of her and Molly together were so beautiful and made me yearn for my future to look just like that. I think this was a really great tribute to Mary Oliver that really honored her work and values!

[Nancycampbell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beautifully illustrated biography of the poet Mary Oliver. Ackerman tells Mary's story simply and honestly. Mary's love of nature and words shine through this picture book.

[Kathryn · Rating 3 out of 5]

I really wanted to love this but was ultimately disappointed. The cover drew me in but I felt the biography was a bit too sparse, some key details felt fuzzy even to me as an adult reader (most especially her relationship with Molly) and I felt we jumped around a bit too fast between some key events -- I just didn't feel settled in the story and that made me feel that I didn't get to know Mary as well as I'd have liked to. I will say that Mary's love of nature, and of expressing herself and her feelings about nature in a way that was her very own, does come through and that we can see how staying true to yourself and expressing your own voice will help you find those people who resonate with you. Her poetry (though initially rejected by many "experts") found a loving following and kindred spirit in Mary Oliver. It's not a bad book by any means, and I wouldn't say don't read it, I just hoped for more. I'm going to try to get another picture book biography about her, Mary Oliver, Holding on to Wonder to compare.

[Sandy Brehl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mary Oliver is among the most beloved of poets in America, and throughout the English-speaking world.
Many lines from her poems are quotable, remembered without being actively memorized.
Example:
“Tell me, what is it you plan to do
with your one wild and precious life?”
― Mary Oliver
Yes, THAT Mary Oliver is the subject of this appealing picture books biography. Her troubled early life is stated as fact without elaboration, an effective connection to many readers who will, on their own terms, define their troubles as hers and find her example offers some solace. Mary went into the woods, into the wild, from early on. Childlike patterns continued throughout her life- carrying a small notebook in a back pocket, stashing a bundle of pencils in small tree cavities along her regular paths.
The ensuing years as an adult reflect her ongoing bond with nature, with quiet, with reflection and observation. This is well-paced non0ficiton account of her life, yet it offers readers of any age a roadmap to inner pursuits and validation of taking ourselves to our places of peace.

[Maura · Rating 5 out of 5]

As an avid fan of Mary Oliver's poetry, I was honestly nervous about what a picture book biography of her could be (and how a poorly written or badly illustrated one could negatively impact kids' first impression of Mary Oliver). Sarah Holly Ackerman's book is absolutely lovely, written in simple yet rich language, similar to Oliver's own style. I adore Naoko Stoop's illustrations, including the words embedded in so many spreads.

My only disappointment is that no actual poems from Mary Oliver were included in the book...I had hoped there might be at least one or two in the back for readers to get a taste of her work. Understanding this may simply be a copyright/permissions issue with Oliver's estate or publishers, though, I can't fault the book for it.

Highly, highly recommended for elementary library collections and for teacher use for poetry or biography units. I'm also a big believer in picture book biographies for older readers, and this could certainly stand up well in a middle or high school picture book biography collection.

[Katie Lawrence · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a wonderful little introduction to Mary Oliver, her love of nature and her poetry. The illustrations were vibrant with loads of hidden natural details and Mary's words woven throughout. I did find a few portions of the text just slightly confusing, mostly because of the lack of detail. I almost wondered if some dates might have helped. I didn't know how much time had passed between Mary in school and Mary moving to the farmhouse, aside from the fact that she must now be old enough to drive. The Author's Note/biography in the back filled in a lot of the details that were a little fuzzy for me from the primary text. Ultimately I think this is a wonderful way to introduce Mary Oliver to young readers, especially if you can share some of her poetry afterwards. The casual, lovely, inclusion of Mary's partner Molly is what earned this a Stonewall Honor and I love that Mary and Molly's collaborative work and love is shared gently throughout this beautiful story.

Stonewall Children’s Literature Award Honor Book

[Terresa Wellborn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Discovering Mary Oliver in a poetry class in the 1990's, I'm surprised/not surprised at the American Poet Darling she has become, especially after her passing on January 17, 2019. Oliver's poetry subjects and word choices are accessible and identifiable, not unlike Emmerson and Thoreau, Frost and Annie Dillard. A life well lived, Mary Oliver wrote plainly and purposefully; her most popular "The Swan" poem being an old time favorite.

This picture book biography introduces Mary to a new generation of readers and poets-to-be, with beauty and grace, giving glimspes into her personal life including her keen eye for nature's wonders, her partner (Molly), her pet dog (featured in many of her later poems), and hiding pencils in trees.

Themes: lgbtq, biography, poetry
Ages: 3-6th grade
Pub year: 2025

[Cathy Mealey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Woods & Words is a lovely introduction to the ‘plain’ poetry of Mary Oliver, utilizing creative illustrations and simple storytelling to celebrate the poet’s lifelong quest to notice, observe and connect with the natural world. Starting with Oliver’s earliest solitary days filling notebooks with words to her later years when she published prize-winning books, her steadfast journey in transforming the ‘treasures’ she observed into the beloved poems conveying truths that resonate with us all. Ackerman’s introduction will pave the way for young readers to seek out Oliver’s poems and make deeper connections to the creatures, places and themes hinted at in Stoop’s soft, colorful illustrations. A perfect addition for a shelf of poet picture book biographies.

[Cheryl · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lovely. It probably helps to know some of Oliver's work first, though, as there is a lot of stuff left out of this. The note at the end helps flesh things out (but, it could be argued, shouldn't be necessary but only supplementary).

This is the second time today I've noticed a picture-book biography written for fans of the subject. I guess that's good advice. Learn first what they wrote, or accomplished, or invented, and *then* read their biography.

A couple of sample poems, or even lines, would have helped here, too. Lots of random words were shown, but a poet puts them together in a special way and that's what makes a poem special.

Rounding up to four stars but, yes, I do want more. Even though, or perhaps especially because, it's just a picture-book.

[Jeimy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Woods & Words is a beautifully crafted introduction to the life and work of Mary Oliver, seamlessly weaving her deep bond with nature and her quiet, powerful queerness into a lyrical narrative. The illustrations are warm and inviting, perfectly complementing a story that honors Oliver’s lifelong attention to the natural world. I especially appreciated how her partnership with photographer Molly Malone Cook was included so matter-of-factly—it’s a welcome example of casual queer representation in children’s literature. This is the kind of picture book that sparks curiosity and wonder, and I would have loved to share it with my English language learners when I was still in the classroom.

[Carrie Finison · Rating 5 out of 5]

Although I've read many poems by Mary Oliver, this book was my first introduction to her life. This biography captures the essence of Mary – how she drew inspiration from nature, especially the woods, and how she wrote for the love of words and poetry, not to win prizes or honors. Her poems are simple, direct, and perfect, and this book feels like one of her poems. I love how the illustrations make use of her words, too. This book would be perfect for reading alongside Mary's poems to introduce young readers to both the poems and the poet.

[Pamela Courtney · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my goodness! Sara Holly Ackerman offers a rich and engaging introduction to American poet, Mary Oliver. Not only are Ackerman's words lyrically stunning, Naoku Stoop's illustrations pair wonderfully as we explore and soak in the simple but beautiful words of Oliver. The classroom teacher, the homeschooling parent, librarians . . . well everyone will delight in having this book as part of lesson planning. This book is such resource for fun, interactive (please do out and be with nature when reading this book) language arts and writing activities, specifically.

[Lisa · Rating 2 out of 5]

Mary Oliver preferred the peacefulness of the outdoors to the classroom and would often sit on the back of a river writing. Mary wrote about nature - there were poems in everything she saw. She had trouble getting her poems published because they weren't fancy. Mary Oliver's poems were well loved.

A nice biography, but I don't see a lot of kid appeal. Like her poetry, this picture book biography isn't fancy or pretentious, so I suppose it makes a fitting tribute, but there's not a lot of plot to keep a young reader engaged. Mary Oliver is white.

[Tracie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This picture-book biography captures the quiet beauty and unwavering perseverence of poet Mary Oliver's life.

Oliver was very private, so I really enjoyed this "peek behind the curtains," as it were. While Oliver wrote for an adult audience, her poems--which use relatable language and primarily center upon nature and animals--are accessible to young readers, and this deftly-told biography will make them come alive.

More please, Sara Holly Ackerman.

[Elaine Fultz, Teacher Librarian, MLS · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mary Oliver is inspiring, always. Hopefully many young readers will get introduced to her before they grow up to hate poetry and never realize what they are missing. 4 stars rather than 5 because, although the illustrations depict nature and MO interacting with trees and animals, I wish the artwork was more simple or refined to match the vibe of her poems. There's a bit of a disconnect between her clarity and the artwork's complexity.

[Bookishrealm · Rating 4 out of 5]

I don't know how I knew nothing of Mary Oliver, but I definitely will be checking out more of works after reading this book. I appreciate the emphasis on the idea that poetry doesn't have to complicated to be poetry. It's the one thing that deters people from picking it up. Absolutely amazing insight to her life and work by Sara Holly Ackerman with even more beautiful illustrations by Naoko Stoop.

[Christina Shawn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a brilliantly crafted masterpiece. Sara Holly Ackerman's gorgeous lyrical writing meets Naoko Stoop's enchanting illustrations in a story that follows poet Mary Oliver from her days as a young girl soaking in nature to how she built a life for herself made of woods and words creating the poetry we love.

[Tammy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This must-read for Mary Oliver fans, and a great book to use in writing lessons.

I'm a big Nooko Stoop fan and love how she perfectly complements Sara Holly Ackerman's biography.

A pleasure to read aloud!
A wonderful gift for a poetry lover!

The perfect gift from a husband to his wife. I am one lucky 54 year old girl!

[Lisa Tolin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This stunning picture book biography of Mary Oliver honors both her language and her life. It shows how she remained true to herself in the face of criticism and skeptics and gave the world lasting beauty from her home of woods and words. This book is a pure delight that will inspire readers to find poetry all around.

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Being outside, surrounded by nature, is the way to find peace and words, too, according to Sara Holly Ackerman, who has written a new biography of Mary Oliver for younger readers. Everyone will enjoy this new picture book, however, beautifully illustrated by Naoko Stoop. There is a brief addition of Oliver's life at the back.

[RL White · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ackerman’s words combined with Stoop’s imaginative illustrations will give the primary elementary student a solid introduction to the life of Mary Oliver. It alludes to specific poems which a teacher or parent can use to make connections between Mary’s poetry and her life. This would be a solid addition to a school library.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is so beautiful! What a beautiful way to teach about the life of Mary Oliver. The illustrations were soft and sweet. I love the words on the pages. I’m still discovering more and more of Mary Oliver’s poetry, but I love her even more now.

[Kate Belt · Rating 5 out of 5]

The book is is gorgeous, absolutely gorgeous. Lucky the reader who has a child in their life to sit on their knee and find the words and the creatures and the everything things in this picture book bio of Mary Oliver. Every old person who enjoys children’s books and Mary Oliver will love it, too.

[Lisa Varchol Varchol · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautiful picture book about a beloved poet. Together, the text and art transport readers into the wildlife-filled woods, where Mary Oliver found endless inspiration. This stunning biography belongs in every home, school, and library.

[Jessie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Really conveys the natural sources of Oliver's inspiration, her habits, and the obstacles she faced. I liked the spirals of words, but I don't think it really conveyed the feel of Oliver's poetry.

Minimal backmatter.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

Short picture book biography of this beloved poet. What a lovely reminder that beauty is around us everywhere if we only stop to pay attention to it. Also, to be bold and live the life you want to live, never mind what anyone around you thinks.

[Jess · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finally a picture book bio of Mary Oliver! This book is so sweet and I think did a beautiful job of honoring Mary Oliver's life. The artwork is lovely and the choice of colors and details is perfect.

[Patricia Q · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the best picture book I've read about Mary Oliver.

[Cara · Rating 5 out of 5]

this book was beautifully written and illustrated. i adored it