Fresh

About this book

Fresh is a warm, fizzing collection of poetry for primary-aged children. It explores themes of new beginnings, whether that be through seasonality in nature, or something deeper, like dealing with loss or changing friendships. Through these curious, funny, thoughtful, and sometimes challenging poems, children are encouraged to take a fresh look at the world around them and the world inside of themselves, too. 

Oliver’s poems take inspiration from anything and everything, from something as small as a flea on a cat, to something as big as a worry that lingers in our minds. Each poem brings a sense of surprise and there are clever twists on the form and layout of the poems that keeps them, well, fresh! Poems about friendship challenges, sadness, loss, worry, and being left out are handled with a light touch, offering comfort and recognition without being condescending.

Chris Riddell’s black-and-white illustrations, in his classic style, are beautifully organic and really bring the poetry to life. They are full of movement, character, and little details that make the reader want to linger on the page.  

This is an excellent book choice to introduce the gentle power of poetry or to serve as inspiration for exploring poetry in primary school and beyond.  

About the illustrator