The Dirigible Balloon
Poetry for Children

Mariposas

Before school,
Mami puts kisses
and hugs in my pocket.
Besos, abrazos
stay with me as
I begin
to understand
the words,
questions
that swirl around
in my mind.
I catch them,
put them in my backpack.
At home,
They flutter out
like mariposas.
Words, stories,
my gift to Mami.

About the Writer


Patricia Brown

Patricia is a retired ESL teacher and picture book writer. She is a member of SCBWI, 12x12, Long Island Children’s Writers and Illustrators and Children’s Book Insider. She was thrilled to be named as a 2024 50 Precious Words winner. She is pursuing her dream of becoming a published author, and looks forward to sharing her stories and poetry with children of all ages. In her spare time, she enjoys knitting, baking, gardening and spending time with her family.