July: By John Updike

In keeping with tradition, here's what John Updike had to say about the month of July....And, in case you've missed my previous pitches, I highly recommend this book -- A Child's Calendar -- accompanied by beautiful illustrations that depict Vermont life.

July

Ban-bang! Ka-boom!

We celebrate

Our national

Independence date,

The Fourth, with

Firecrackers and

The marching of

The Legion Band.

America:

It makes us think

Of hot dogs, fries, and Coke to drink.

The shade is hot.

The little ants

Are buys, but

Poor Fido pants

And Tabby dozes

In a pool

Of fur she sheds

To keep her cool.