From child-friendly anthologies to stories narrated through verse, these gorgeous books are ideal for introducing children to the wonders of poetry...
Tiger, Tiger, Burning Bright! An Animal Poem for Every Day of the Year, selected by Fiona Waters and illustrated by Britta Teckentrup, Nosy Crow, September 2020
A magnificent collection of 366 animal poems, one for each day of the year, including leap years. Every possible creature appears to have been represented, from elephants to snails, manatees to mosquitos, and even tiny tadpoles, with stunning illustrations. Read a longer review and take a peek inside...
A Smile by Raoul Follereau and Hoda Hadadi, Pikku Publishing, April 2021
The text is a poem which celebrates the act of smiling and was written by French journalist, poet and humanitarian, Raoul Follereau, in 1920. We watch two children go to and from school, and witness the transformative power of smiling in every scene. Read a longer review and take a peek inside...
Shaping the World by Liz Brownlee, Macmillian, April 2021
A beautiful gift anthology containing forty incredible poems in the shape of world shapers! Each poem is paired with a biography, quote and fascinating fact. This was released on 1st April and my copy is still on its way to me. I'll share a review as soon as it arrives, but in the meantime, take a look at this book on the publisher's website.
This Love by Isabel Otter and Harriet Lynas, Little Tiger, March 2019
Told in verse, this takes us around the world and shows children and families enjoying a variety of activities together. We see them doing whatever it is that makes them happy, as peace, harmony and of course, love, radiate from every page. Read a longer review and take a peek inside...
A Great Big Cuddle by Michael Rosen and Chris Riddell, Walker Books, September 2015
A collection of entertaining verses that demonstrate how poetry doesn't have to be serious, and shows it can be playful and humorous. Children will learn not to be intimidated by poetry and may even be inspired to write their own. There's lots of diversity and the illustrations are fabulous. Read a longer review and take a peek inside...
Rain before Rainbows by Smriti Halls and David Litchfield, Walker Books, October 2020
With spectacular illustrations, this beautiful poem about perseverance illuminates a young girl's journey to find a new home. There are many dark and lonely nights before the girl finds a bright place to settle. Along the way, she makes animal friends who guide her to safety. Read a longer review and take a peek inside...
What are little girls made of? by Jeanne Willis and Isabelle Follath, published by Nosy Crow, September 2020
Seventeen classic nursery rhymes are transformed so that they no longer reinforce old-fashioned stereotypes. This invigorates dull, sexist ditties and reinvents them as fabulously funny feminist verses. All genders are empowered as toxic masculinity is challenged. Read a longer review and take a peek inside...
Are Your Stars Like My Stars by Leslie Helakoski and Heidi Woodward Sheffield, Sterling Publishing July 2020
This is a beautiful book which celebrates the differences that make us special, while showcasing the shared experiences that unite us all. We see a variety of cultures and countries, as we explore colours and their relationship to children. This reads like a lullaby and child-like illustrations are full of joy. Read a longer review and take a peek inside...
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