Rapunzel is a Lettuce

by Joseph Coelho, illustrated by Shirley Hottier

Interest age: 7 to 14
Reading age: 7+

Published by Otter-Barry Books, 2026

  • Funny
  • Poetry and rhyme

About this book

Former Waterstones Children’s Laureate Joseph Coelho brings us another dazzling poetry anthology that covers a range of experiences and feelings; from the simple joys of running with your dog, to marvelling at the distant beauty of Saturn’s rings. An intro from Michael Rosen welcomes readers into the poems, which all shine with Coelho’s creativity and offer immersive snapshots of life in all its sticky, chaotic, beautiful glory. 

With a rich variety of form, subject, length and theme on offer, this book is perfect for introducing a wide range of poetry to children and for reading aloud at home or in the classroom. Shirley Hottier’s black and white illustrations work in harmony with the poetry, and her art brings loads of character to each spread.

Poetry anthologies like this can be a perfect match for many children with their lower word count and the opportunity to dip in and out. Coelho's poetry finds creative ways to provoke thoughts and open windows into everyday life and emotion that will really resonate with children.

About the author

Joseph Coelho is an award-winning children's author, performance poet and playwright based in London. He is also the Waterstones Children's Laureate for 2022-2024. His debut poetry collection, Werewolf Club Rules, was the 2015 winner of the CLPE CLiPPA Poetry Award. His second book, Overheard in a Tower Block, was shortlisted for the 2018 CLPE CLiPPA Poetry Award and is longlisted for the 2019 UKLA Book Awards. Joseph features in the BBC Teach 'Understanding Poetry' online series.

His work has poetry and performance at its heart, drawing on over 16 years' experience running dynamic creative literacy sessions in schools. He aims to inspire young people through stories and characters they can recognise.

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