Poems to Perform

Encouraging children to act out stories, plays – and poems – has been a key element in Julia Donaldson’s work as Children’s Laureate. In this new anthology, published in her final few weeks in the role, she has collected poems which are ideal for performing.

This rich and varied collection of both classic and contemporary verse includes poems for just two voices, poems for groups to recite together, and poems which are perfect for performing as a whole class. Some are conversations between characters as diverse as a teacher and a pupil, a goblin and a nymph, and a tree and a pool. At the back of the book, aspiring performers will find Donaldson's own tips and ideas for how each poem could be performed.

Featuring poems by poets ranging from Michael Rosen, John Agard and Allan Ahlberg, to T S Eliot, W H Auden and Eleanor Farjeon - and of course, Donaldson herself - this anthology is a real treat. Primary aged children will love the chance to act out this delightful range of poems, which includes fun tongue-twisters and action rhymes. Beautifully presented, it is accompanied by traditional lino cut illustrations by Clare Melinsky who appropriately enough originally trained as a theatre designer. A gorgeous book for the classroom - or for reading and sharing at home.