The Big Amazing Poetry Book: 52 Weeks of Poetry from 52 Brilliant Poets
illustrated by Chris Riddell
Chosen by Gaby Morgan
Foreword by Roger McGough
Interest age: 9 to 11
Reading age: 8+
Published by Macmillan Children’s Books, 2023
About this book
There is something for everyone in this superb poetry pick ’n’ mix, which features a different poem for every day of the year, written by 52 talented poets. As Roger McGough declares in his enthusiastic foreword, each poem has a life of its own and a story to tell.
The poems are splendidly diverse in subject and genre, ranging from historical to hysterical, moving to magical, while styles include haikus, raps, shape poems and free verse. Classics, such as Lewis Carroll’s Jabberwocky and Cats by Eleanor Farjeon, nestle alongside the work of contemporary poets. For example, Rachel Piercey’s mouth-watering Bake Sale showcases a delectable array of sweet treats, and Brian Bilston’s powerful Refugees is an ingenious and thought-provoking read.
A short biography of every writer precedes each set of poems, and the comprehensive contents pages will enable readers to easily find their favourites. This rich tapestry of verse is beautifully woven together by Chris Riddell’s characterful and distinctive line drawings, which adorn every page. Sure to enthral, challenge, inspire and entertain readers young and old, if you only have one volume of poetry in your book collection, let it be this one.
About the illustrator
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Lists of recommended reads
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Poetry books for the Poetry Friendly Classroom
Take a look at some of our favourite children's poetry books - perfect for use in the poetry-friendly classroom. From Roald Dahl's classic Revolting Rhymes to fantastic novels in verse, these books are guaranteed to promote a love of poetry.