In a captivating fusion of literacy and visual art, talented 8th-grade students exhibited original poems, drawing inspiration from Marcus Zusak's The Book Thief. Following an immersive field trip to the American Visionary Art Museum in Baltimore, these students explored the novel's powerful themes by focusing on symbolism, imagery and perspective. Each student was challenged to select words and phrases from The Book Thief and create poetry that delves into deeper meanings, transforming both text and visual expression. The results are a striking collection of works that reflect the emotional weight of Zusak's historical fiction while also allowing each young artist to reimagine its significance. Through this project, students not only honed their literacy skills but also explored the creative process of blending narrative and visual storytelling. Their showcased works invite viewers to experience the intersection of language and art, where meaning is continually redefined by the eyes of each beholder.