A Whale of a Time: a funny poem for every day of the year

This is a glorious collection of funny poems spanning subjects and poets galore. From animals to family members, to school to feelings and many more, children will find something that they recognise and that makes them laugh. It is thoughtfully organised – beyond the daily and monthly divisions, similarly-themed poems are also grouped together, so that the fabulous illustrations are relevant to all the poems on the double-page spread. After all, if you’re in the mood for one funny poem about a dog, you’re in the mood for more!

Featuring familiar names such as Michael Rosen, Joseph Coelho and Valerie Bloom, as well as lesser-known poets, this is a treasure trove of humour. As the anthologist says, some poems are cleverly funny, others might make your lips twitch or raise a wry smile. Others might make you laugh out loud. All have children and their sense of humour at their heart.

The book itself is a large format hardback with a yellow ribbon place marker, and it’s joyously illustrated in colour throughout. These 366 poems are a delight to read aloud and to share, and it would make a wonderful gift as it also rewards poring over alone.