Our favourite books by John Agard

Poet, playwright and short story writer John Agard has championed poetry in schools for over 40 years, spreading his joyous delight in words and bridging cultures, countries and gaps. He won BookTrust’s Lifetime Achievement Award in 2021. Here, we share a list of some of John’s brilliant books – whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering his work for the first time, you’re sure to find something to love.

  • Come All You Little Persons

    by John Agard, illustrated by Jessica Courtney-Tickle 

    2017 4 to 9 years 

    • Around the world
    • Picture books
    • Poetry and rhyme

    Captivating and vibrant illustrations complement the lyrical text in this joyous, inclusive story by celebrated poet John Agard. Perfect for reading aloud at bedtime, this book celebrates childhood and the natural world in all its rich diversity.

  • John Agard’s Windrush Child

    by John Agard, illustrated by Sophie Bass 

    2022 4 to 7 years 

    • Picture books

    In this bold and vibrant picture book, John Agard’s touching poem Windrush
    Child
    is brought to life for young readers.

  • Books Make Good Pets

    by John Agard, illustrated by Momoko Abe 

    2021 4 to 9 years 

    • Picture books
    • Poetry and rhyme

    In this delightful book about books, readers go on an imaginative journey through the amazing worlds of adventure that a good book can inspire – and learn that a book can sometimes be a perfect pet or best friend.

  • Under the Moon and Over the Sea

    by John Agard and Grace Nichols, illustrated by Cathie Felstead, Jane Ray, Christopher Corr, Sara Fanelli and Satoshi Kitamura 

    2011 5 to 14 years 

    • Around the world
    • Classics
    • Poetry and rhyme

    This joyful collection of more than 50 poems superbly conjures the sights, sounds and rhythms of the Caribbean. 

  • Caribbean Dozen: Poems from Thirteen Caribbean Poets

    by John Agard and Grace Nichols 

    2021 5 to 14 years 

    • Poetry and rhyme

    Legendary poets John Agard and Grace Nichols, both originally from the Caribbean, have compiled a lovely book of poems featuring their own work alongside eleven others, forming a generous Caribbean Dozen’ of wordsmiths.

  • Coyote’s Soundbite

    by John Agard, illustrated by Piet Grobler 

    2021 5 to 9 years 

    • Around the world
    • Myths and legends
    • Picture books
    • Poetry and rhyme

    Six Earth Goddesses call a meeting to discuss what is to be done about humans inflicting catastrophic environmental damage to the planet. Coyote, disguised as his wife, joins the meeting – and feels compelled to speak out.

  • Shona, Word Detective

    by John Agard 

    2018 5 to 14 years 

    A delightful celebration of lexicography in a dyslexia-friendly layout, this is a book that will surely inspire all children to find the fun in words and language.

  • My Name is Book

    by John Agard, illustrated by Neil Packer 

    2015 9 to 14 years 

    • Non-fiction

    If you are intrigued as to how sheep and birds have played important roles in the recording of the written word then this is the definitely the book for you!

  • Wise Up! Wise Down!

    by John Agard and JonArno Lawson, illustrated by Satoshi Kitamura 

    2024 9 to 14 years 

    • Adventure
    • Around the world
    • Funny
    • Poetry and rhyme

    This lively collection of poems by two acclaimed poets takes readers on a meandering, thought-provoking and imaginative journey. Humorously illustrated with energetic black-and-white drawings.  

  • The Poetry World of John Agard

    by John Agard, illustrated by Shirley Hottier 

    2025 9 to 14 years 

    • Funny
    • Poetry and rhyme
    • Interactive

    A collection of 80 John Agard’s poems for younger children taken from eight previous books.