Children’s / Teenage: Poetry / poems

Book SynopsisThe hilariously anarchic and bestselling picture book about a dragon who has lost his flame – but may just find fire elsewhere . . . Perfect for fans of The Dinosaur That Pooped series.   Sir Wayne’s dragon has lost his flame. Are his teeth TOO clean? Is his tongue TOO pink? Perhaps his diet is to blame. Not to worry – Sir Wayne has a meal plan of EPIC proportions, including a big lump of lava, one burning bush, some sparklers and fireworks – the ones that go ‘WHOOOOSH’. Oh, and one VERY mouldy old piece of cheese – almost as green as the snot from a sneeze . . . What could possibly go wrong?! Check out the brilliantly naughty Big Bad Dragon Club and look out for more fart-tastic fun in The Knight with the Blazing Bottom and The Princess with the Blazing Bottom and the brand-new festive picture book The Dragon with the Blazing Bottom at Christmas!     

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Book SynopsisMeet Skig, who’s meant to be a warrior (but is really more of a worrier). Meet a giddy comet, skidding across the sky with her tail on fire. Put a marvellous new machine in your pocket and maybe you’ll be able to fix all your life’s problems. Kate Wakeling’s first book of poems for children is full of curious characters and strange situations. The poems she writes are always musical, sometimes magical, and full of wonder at the weirdness of the world.Moon Juice contains 25 poems and features bonus materials, including interviews with the author and the illustrator, and ideas for writing your own poems.Trade ReviewThere’s a focussed precision in much of Kate’s writing that turns many of her poems into sharp injections of humour or close observation. Her words are gently juxtaposed with black and white illustrations by the Latvian artist Elīna Brasliņa. Expressive, playful and good at making you re-read the poem to see another of its strands, they play an important role in making this book appealing and approachable.Playing by the Book -- Zoe ToftA collection of poems by a new voice writing for children is an event to be celebrated. Moon Juice by the poet, Kate Wakeling is just such an event. However, these are not poems created to grab the attention with the quick laugh and a lot of noise; these are poems to seduce, to attract because they reflect the imagination of the young reader. Ferelith Hordon, Books for Keeps

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Book SynopsisDiscover funny, dark and thought-provoking poems on all things bad, from former Children's Laureate 2007-2009, Michael Rosen. This poetry collection contains hilarious tales of friendship, family life and the horrors of being late for school, as well as poems to ponder - just think, how great would Satnav trousers be! This touching and funny poetry collection from one of Britain's greatest children's poets will delight readers young and old.Trade ReviewMichael Rosen is a poet with a superb ear for the rhythms of language * Guardian *One of our most popular writers - the champion for every bored, overdrilled, tested-to-tears pupil in the land * The Times *I think poetry for children needs to be saved from the cold dissection of right and wrong answers and put back into rooms and halls full of wonder, compassion, haunting, laughter, music and rhythm. We need to hear its many cultures, many voices, many sounds. This is about wide and diverse participation. Diverse verse for all! * Michael Rosen, Children's Laureate 20072009 *Nothing about this playful free verse is obscure or difficult, yet it revels in the sounds and meanings of words. It contains whimsy, flights of fancy and even satire. * The Times *

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Book SynopsisYAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAGET OFF, GET OFF, GET OFF!Well, what would you say if your brother kept whacking you with a spoon, or the spider made it all the way up the toilet bowl, or your mum made you wear that horrible shirt?Find out in this fantastically funny collection of poems all about growing up from the brilliant Michael Rosen, the author of award-winning children''s books such as Quick, Let''s get Out of Here, We''re Going on a Bear Hunt and Chocolate Cake.

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Book Synopsis‘Love alters not with his brief hours and weeks, But bears it out even to the edge of doom’Sonnets are for romantics, starry-eyed lovers and ardent hearts. And Shakespeare’s sonnets are the best ever written.But this is why they are also for cynics, for star-crossed lovers and for those who know the anguish of unrequited love. Some of them are written to a young man, some of them to a woman. And although the poems are full of mystery – why did Shakespeare write them, what was his sexuality? – each one speaks to us from across the centuries of love, hate and the intensity of being alive.Includes exclusive content: In the 'Backstory' you can find a short, handy, funny guide to everything you might want to know about Shakespeare and his sonnets.‘This is a crazy, all-consuming, feverish and sweaty love; love, in all its uncut, full-strength intensity; an adolescent love’ Don Paterson, GuardianTrade ReviewThe great master who knew everything...an unspeakable source of delight -- Charles DickensEvery age has reinvented the Bard in its own image. Renaissance Man or post-modern angst... Shakespeare haunts our language * Independent *Shakespeare was the most consummate genius of all time -- Peter AckroydDante and Shakespeare divide the modern world between them, there is no third -- T.S. EliotEvery single character in Shakespeare is as much an Individual as those in Life itself -- Alexander Pope

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Book SynopsisSHORTLISTED FOR THE 2022 YOTO CARNEGIE MEDALFrom award-winning, bestselling author Ibi Zoboi and prison reform activist Yusef Salaam of the Exonerated Five comes a powerful YA novel in verse about a boy who is wrongfully incarcerated. Perfect for fans of the Noughts & Crosses series and The Hate U Give.One fateful night, an altercation in a gentrifying neighbourhood escalates into tragedy. Boys just being boys' turns out to be true only when those boys are white.Suddenly, at just sixteen years old, Amal Shahid's bright future is upended: he is convicted of a crime he didn't commit and sent to prison. Despair and rage almost sink him until he turns to the refuge of his words, his art. This never should have been his story. But can he change it?With spellbinding lyricism, award-winning author Ibi Zoboi and prison reform activist Yusef Salaam tell a moving and deeply profound story about how one boy is able to maintain his humanity and fight for the truth, in a system designed to strip him of both.Trade Review‘Zoboi and Salaam have created nothing short of a masterwork of humanity, with lyrical arms big enough to cradle the oppressed, and metaphoric teeth sharp enough to chomp on the bitter bones of racism. This is more than a story. This is a necessary exploration of anger, and a radical reflection of love, which ultimately makes for an honest depiction of what it means to be young and Black in America.’ – Jason Reynolds, award-winning, bestselling author of Long Way Down ‘Punching the Air is the profound sound of humanity in verse. About a boy who uses his creative mind to overcome the creativity of racism. About a boy who uses the freedom of art to overcome his incarceration. About you. About me. Utterly indispensable.’ – Ibram X. Kendi, National Book Award-winning and #1 New York Times bestselling author of Stamped and How to Be an Antiracist ‘In this beautifully rendered book, we are reminded again of how brilliant and precarious our Black Lives are and how art can ultimately heal us.’ – Jacqueline Woodson, award-winning, bestselling author of Brown Girl Dreaming Praise for BLACK ENOUGH, edited by Ibi Zoboi ‘A powerful collection that opens the reader’s eyes to the breadth and diversity of contemporary experience in America’ – June Sarpong, author of Diversify ‘A breath of fresh air . . . nuanced and necessary.’ – Kirkus Reviews (starred review) ‘The stories, all worth savoring, share a celebratory outlook on black teenagers fully and courageously embracing life.’ – Publishers Weekly (starred review) Praise for AMERICAN STREET by Ibi Zoboi ‘Self-assured, elegant and utterly captivating.’ – The New York Times ‘Fierce and beautiful.’ – Booklist (starred review)

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Book SynopsisThis irreverent and laugh-out-loud funny poetry book for children is written by beloved Children's Laureate 2007-2009 and illustrated by Harry Horse. Packed full of 100 poems about science and technology, in this collection they'll be introduced to the weird and wonderful world of martians, woolly saucepans and centrally heated knickers. Centrally Heated Knickers is perfect for introducing younger readers to poetry, with cross-curricular links and laughs.Trade ReviewMichael Rosen is a poet with a superb ear for the rhythms of language * Guardian *One of our most popular writers – the champion for every bored, overdrilled, tested-to-tears pupil in the land * The Times *I think poetry for children needs to be saved from the cold dissection of right and wrong answers and put back into rooms and halls full of wonder, compassion, haunting, laughter, music and rhythm. We need to hear its many cultures, many voices, many sounds. This is about wide and diverse participation. Diverse verse for all! * Michael Rosen, Children's Laureate 2007-2009 *

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Book Synopsis_______________A brilliant, prize-winning collection of poems by Matt GoodfellowWinner of the 2020 North Somerset Teachers'' Book Award for best children''s poetry book_______________What if cats had flavoured fur, or you swallowed the sun? What if you were a special kind of badger, or you found a map to the stars? And what if your home was split during the week: one half at Mum''s, the other half at Dad''s?Packed with brilliant poems that explore a whole range of themes from the downright silly to the sensitive, this collection will delight, enthuse and resonate with children and adults alike. _______________''Those who love poetry should snap up Matt Goodfellow''s rich and vivid new collection'' - The Guardian''Matt Goodfellow is a fresh voice on the children''s poetry scene'' - Pie Corbett_______________Book Band: BrownIdeal for ages 7+Trade ReviewThose who love poetry should snap up Matt Goodfellow’s rich and vivid new collection, Bright Bursts of Colour, illustrated by Aleksei Bitskoff. -- Imogen Russell Williams * The Guardian *This collection has hilarious moments but also has poetry which aims to help children deal with difficult issues, which could be ideal for this moment [...] Beautifully illustrated, this is perfect for those aged eight and over to read alone, or to be enjoyed with parents. -- ExpressMatt is a relatively new voice on the poetry scene but his work is so deliciously accomplished that it feels like he's already solidly established. This poetry collection is absolutely superb and so well observed ... This is a poet who really knows and understands children. -- Dawn Finch, Author and librarian * www.awfullybigreviews.blogspot.com *Matt Goodfellow's latest publication is a much needed pallet of colour and emotion. -- Alison Kelly * Reading Zone *There’s a lot fun in this book, but it also includes poems on more sensitive themes and it can be a good route in to exploring often tricky things with children. -- Sarah Burns * Let Them Be Small Blog *Whether you need cheering up, a sympathetic ear or something funnier or more thought-provoking, you’ll find plenty in this poetry collection for every occasion and mood. -- BookTrustMatt Goodfellow is a fresh voice on the children's poetry scene. * Pie Corbett *This collection has hilarious moments but also has poetry which aims to help children deal with difficult issues, which could be ideal for this moment. Beautifully illustrated, this is perfect for those aged eight and over to read alone, or to be enjoyed with parents. * The Express *From joyfully absurd meditations on whether cats have flavoured fur to a harder-hitting examination of how it feels to live between two homes, Goodfellow has the knack for choosing all the right words, and retaining the resonant simplicity essential to the best children’s poetry. * The Guardian *The book is a real gift for a teacher looking for quality poetry to inspire a class! * North Somerset Teachers' Book Award *

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Book SynopsisDive into a celebration of all the wonderful things babies and toddlers get up to throughout a busy day in this joyful collection of poems by beloved children's author Mara Bergman.Baby wakes up early.What does Baby say?Good morning, World,I'm ready for another busy day!A perfect gift for children and grown-ups to share end enjoy together, Dear Little One celebrates the little things that make life with a toddler fun! From breakfast to bedtime, with plenty of playing and exploring, dancing and dreaming in between, this playful and charming anthology of poems for the youngest children is a treat to dip into, with beautiful, colourful illustrations throughout.

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Book SynopsisRead about the Land of Blue, where it’s OK to feel sad, find ideas for what to do with worries or how to slow down when your head is full of hurry. Give yourself time to chill out, find quiet voices in noisy places and discover kindness in yourself and others. Then maybe your own special thought machine will tell you, ‘This is going well. You’re doing great. You’ve got this!’ And you have! This important and unique anthology of 45 poems by three leading poets, well known for their empathy and perception, speaks to the heart of what children think and care about, offering understanding, support and encouragement. With an endnote by leading clinical psychologist Karen Goodall.Trade Review"A ground-breaking anthology of 45 poems by three leading poets offers understanding, support and encouragement." * Achuka *"Forty-five new poems confront anxieties and worries, helping with ways to develop empathy and mindfulness." -- Fiona Noble * The Bookseller *"In 2021, this book could be just the answer for so many children who are facing anxiety and worries about their life and the world." * Dolphin Book Blog *"Very much in tune with the feelings the three poets have written of are the quirky black and white illustrations by new illustrator Victoria Jane Wheeler; and the book concludes with a note from developmental psychologist Dr Karen Goodall that includes some suggestions as to how an adult might open up a discussion. A special book that I strongly recommend for both school and home collections." * Red Reading Hub *"So often books with a 'message' are contrived or over-earnest but this is absolutely not the case for Being Me with its authentic voices & compassionate clarity... This is surely a book for our times." * Reading Zone *"Such a useful anthology to have in class to spark discussion and raise awareness of the lived experiences of others as well as support children’s development of emotional literacy and empathy...Perfect for children throughout Key Stage 2." * Literacy Tree *"From reading the first poem in this collection I was hooked and read poem after poem finding they spoke to me in so many ways." * Just Imagine *"This important and unique anthology of 45 poems by three leading poets, well known for their empathy and perception, speaks to the heart of what children think and care about, offering understanding, support, and encouragement." * Goodreads *"This is a truly stunning collection of poignant, powerful poems by three outstanding poets, illustrated by Victoria Jane Wheeler… each and every poem is a real gem. I cannot recommend this collection highly enough." * North Somerset Teachers' Book Award *"Children are often more aware of troubled times – at home or in the world around them – than adults give them credit for... This new book by established children’s poets, Brownlee, Goodfellow and Mucha aims to help." * Poetry Zone *"A new collection from the talented pens of @Lizpoet, @EarlyTrain & @lauramucha.This anthology speaks of worries that touch children’s lives. Some offer solutions, others recognition. The poems could be used in KS2 assemblies, PSHCE & literacy lessons." * West Sussex Schools Library Service *"This is an anthology not just for today. The subjects covered are ones that children everywhere have experienced – and will continue to experience. These are poems to be shared with the whole class or family or given to the child who needs something immediate. Empathetic, sympathetic, reassuring – recommended for both KS1 and KS2 teachers and pupils alike... The illustrations by Victoria Wheeler are a perfect adjunct to the words – spiky, simple, pen and ink images that capture a mood or situation, allowing the imagination free rein." * Books for Keeps (5 star review) *"No4 in #12PoetryBooksofChristmas is Being Me @OtterBarryBooks by the fabulous @Lizpoet @EarlyTrain & @lauramucha deserving of its place on this year's @clpe1 shortlist this is a book should be on the curriculum & in every school." -- Sue Hardy-Dawson * via Twitter *

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Book SynopsisA brilliantly illustrated collection of 366 hilarious poems to keep you laughing all year round!From rib-ticklingly funny to wryly witty, each poem in this uplifting collection is guaranteed to put a smile on your face and is perfect for reading aloud to share even more side-splitting hilarity with family and friends. Whether it's a poem about socks or spaniels, eggs or elephants, this bright and brilliant collection will bring you cheer and laughter every day. The spectacular range of poems for children includes work by John Agard, Maya Angelou, Hilaire Belloc, Brian Bilston, Lucille Clifton, Wendy Cope, Roald Dahl, Edward Lear, Spike Milligan, Ogden Nash, Grace Nichols, Jack Prelutsky, Michael Rosen, Christina Rossetti, Benjamin Zephaniah and many more.A wonderful gift for all ages, this beautifully produced anthology includes luxurious cloth binding and ribbon marker.

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Book SynopsisJoin Mother Goose and her three little goslings as they enjoy over fifty classic nursery rhymes, traditional lullabies and favourite action songs, beautifully illustrated in full colour throughout by the award-winning Axel Scheffler, illustrator of The Gruffalo. The deluxe hardback has a ribbon marker and foiled jacket, making it a very special gift.The rhymes are linked together by enchanting original stories about Mother Goose and her goslings as they learn to waddle, swim and more, giving a unique and fresh twist to these traditional favourites.From Humpty Dumpty to Jack and Jill, and from Baa Baa Black Sheep to Twinkle Twinkle Little Star, there's something for everyone in this beautiful gift treasury – a must for every family bookshelf.

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Book SynopsisAn utterly brilliant collection of the very best poems, from Puffin Books,A celebratory anthology of the best of Puffin poetry publishing, including poems by Roger McGough, Michael Rosen, Charles Causley, Benjamin Zephaniah, Jackie Kay, Spike Milligan, John Agard, Brian Patten, Allan Ahlberg and Kit Wright. Each poet''s work is illustrated by a different artist such as Emma Chichester Clark, Fritz Wegner and Korky Paul.Brian Patten came to public attention with the publication of THE MERSEY SOUND in 1967. He is a very popular performance poet, always in demand for conferences and school visits. Collections of his own poetry are published in Puffin and he is the editor of the PUFFIN BOOK OF TWENTIETH CENTURY VERSE. Brian lives in London.This collection features poems and illustrations from:Spike Milligan; Kit Wright; Michael Rosen; Charles Causley; Roger McGough; Benjamin Zephaniah; Brian Patten; Jackie Kay; John Agard; Allan Ahlberg; Emma Chichester C

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Book SynopsisWant to travel in a rocket? Search for a grumpy dragon? Make your very own monster? Visit a higgledy-piggledy farm? Well, hop into Zim Zam Zoom – for fun and adventures galore! Colours, animals, space, music, fairytale fireworks...! Here is a collection of poems especially written for performance. With delightful illustrations by a talented new illustrator, this is a brilliant introduction to poetry for young children.Trade Review"A gem of a book which combines, in perfect harmony, all the elements of what an excellent picture book for young children should be." * Carousel *"Colours, animals, space, music, fairytale fireworks...! Zim Zam Zoom is a collection of poems especially for reading out loud or performing. With delightful illustrations by the talented new illustrator Nicola Colton, this is a brilliant introduction to poetry for young children." * National Literacy Trust *"James Carter's 'Let's Invent a Monster', from Zim, Zam, Zoom, yearns for stand up wriggling and animal sound effects." -- Imogen Russell Williams * Times Literary Supplement *"This catchy title captures the spirit of this collection of sixteen poems which are to be read ALOUD by children to children." * Carousel *"The excellent full-page illustrations are just as zappy as the poems." * Inis *"There are few writers more sensitive to 'hooking' young children into poetry than James Carter. His vast experience of visiting and working with youngsters in schools enables him to pitch his writing for his audience perfectly...Carter does exuberance and humour really well, but he can also be quietly reflective. If you're not sure about teaching poetry, then look at his website and just dive into a collection like to enjoy with your children." * English 4-11 *"Beautiful book, wonderful words, lovely illustrations. This is definitely a poetry book, but it’s a picture book, too. I tried reading it aloud with a young listener and it went down very well. We both really enjoyed it – every single poem. They made us laugh, they made us shiver and they made us ooh and aah. The alliteration and the onomatopoeia, the fun rhyme and the zappy rhythm are all ideal for joining in. James Carter really does understand how to grab the attention of younger children. And Nicola Colton provides some great illustrations. Buy it." * Poetry Zone *"There is Roger McGough, there is Michael Rosen and here is James Carter bringing bright, lively words to children. … Against bold coloured backgrounds of ochre, red and green, Nicola Colton's childlike images add to the joyful action. .. This is a book that would be great fun to share with a class of enthusiastic children, or as a family at bedtime." * IBBY Link *"Full of exciting, adventurous poems, all of which are perfect for reading aloud and are accompanied by cartoon illustrations." * The Reading Zone *"This exhilarating collection of poems is a perfect way to enthuse children for poetry. They will be captivated by the bright artwork and the way the poems are interwoven with the pictures...The poems have been specially written for performance - teachers will love them for classroom use and for assemblies; they are great for children to read aloud too, in groups or individually. The wonderful use of language will inspire children to try writing poetry for themselves." * Parents in Touch *"The sort of poetry book that kids can't resist. I've always held the opinion that funny poetry just BEGS to be read out loud (in as silly a voice as possible) and this book was a true treat." * Read It Daddy *"Here is a collection of poems especially written for performance. With delightful illustrations by a talented new illustrator. RECOMMENDED." * Achuka *"This corker of a book arrived during the holidays and I had to restrain myself from dashing out into the road, grabbing any child I could find and saying, ‘Come with me and listen.’ …Assuredly, this is a book if ever there was one, to turn children on to poetry. It leads on perfectly from nursery rhymes and deserves a place in every early years setting and on every family bookshelf. So, do what James Carter suggests in his final offering and Take a Poem … Nicola Colton ‘s spirited illustrations allow the poems to take centre stage right where they should be – a tricky undertaking, deftly done." * Red Reading Hub *"Perfect for reading out loud, Appealing illustrations provide plenty to talk about in this perfect introduction to poetry for younger children." * Book Trust *"A brilliant introduction to poetry for young children, poems easily learnt and performed, great titles and include colours, animals, space, music and fairy tale fireworks." * DolphinBooks - the blog *"Poetry now enjoys a higher profile within the National Curriculum than previously and books such as Zim Zam Zoom! can only contribute to making poetry more accessible and enjoyable for a young audience." * Armadillo *

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Book SynopsisMichael Rosen (Author) Michael Rosen is one of the best known figures, not only in the children's book world but also the British arts scene. His first book of children's poems was published in 1974, and he has gone on to write numerous and award-winning children's books such as Quick, Let's get Out of Here, We're Going on a Bear Hunt and Chocolate Cake. Alongside this he performs, teaches, lectures, presents Word of Mouth on BBC Radio 4 and reviews books for the Guardian. He was Children's Laureate from 2007 to 2009, and founded the Roald Dahl Funny Prize in 2008 as part of his laureateship to honour books that make children laugh!Korky Paul (Illustrator) Korky Paul (Illustrator) Korky Paul was born in Zimbabwe. He has lived in California and Greece as well as Great Britain. He studied at the Californian Institute of Art, Los Angeles, and then began a career as an Art Director in advertising, but found he enjoyed drawi

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Book SynopsisSpectacular you can almost smell the surf between the pages. The TimesFive stars if you take only one picture book away this summer, make it this. The TelegraphFrom Nicola Davies and Emily Sutton, the multi award-winning team behind Tiny and Lots, comes a spellbinding collection of poems about the oceans of the world and their shores. With this book, children can swim alongside dolphins and flying fish, pore over rockpools and sail from pole to pole and back, learning about everything from phosphorescence and plankton to manta rays and puffins all in the comfort of their bedroom. Emily Sutton''s exquisite watercolours capture the breathless excitement of a child''s first glimpse of the sea, the majesty of ancient trading ships and the sheer, staggering wonder of the humpback whale. The perfect companion to international bestsellers A First Book of Nature and A First Book of Animals, this book is sure to enthral aTrade Review“Just dive in and enjoy.” * The Sunday Express *“Like fish and chips, Nicola Davies and Emily Sutton are meant for each other. You can almost smell the surf between the pages.” * The Times *“This ravishing coffee-table volume of poems is the perfect companion to a seaside holiday, cruise or day out, full of language rich observations about wildlife and beaches and illustrated with engrossing visual variety and charm.” * The Sunday Times *“If you take only one picture book away this summer, make it this.” * The Telegraph *“gloriously illustrated” * The Daily Telegraph, Best 50 Books of 2018 *

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Book SynopsisThe award-winning tale of a girl who feels broken, and the dolphin who makes her whole. A powerful story of friendship, hope and self-discovery, perfect for readers aged 9+, beautifully illustrated by George Ermos.Winner of the Eilís Dillon Award for debut children''s book at the KPMG Children''s Books Ireland Awards 2024!Ró finds school impossible. She knows people think she''s shy - and stupid. But when she goes to the bay each afternoon to watch the dolphin leap through the water, she finds the strength to keep going. Then the dolphin disappears, and everything starts falling apart.Can Ró overcome her fears to find him?I watch each rise and dip of wave know Sunny must be out there somewhere wonder if he''s missing me. I remember that moment when I touched his skin and know that finding him is thTrade ReviewA heartwarming, hopeful read with accessibility and understanding at its core, I know this book will be very important to a lot of children who need to see themselves reflected in the stories they read. * Ruth Ennis, Books Ireland Magazine *A gentle and moving story of friendship, hope and self-discovery ... celebrates neurodiversity and the power to change. * Patricia Forde, Laureate na nÓg (Ireland's Children's Laureate) in Irish Times magazine *The star of this novel, the friendship between Ró and Cian (The Bean) is done perfectly, capturing that unsteady moment when fiercely loyal childhood friendship tips towards more romantic feelings. A really classy debut. * Irish Examiner *an uplifting story * Irish Sunday Times, Children’s Book of the Week *Molloy's powerful story about a girl who feels broken, and the dolphin who makes her feel complete, is enhanced by Ermos' illustrations. This uplifting tale celebrates self-acceptance, inclusivity and readers of all abilities. * Editor’s Choice, Reading Matters, Children’s Books Ireland *

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Book Synopsis Age range 12+Sometimes it's a giftWhen a thought just appearsLike a flash of lightning A life-changing ideaIf you were to add up Each one of your thoughts Would there be a million A billion or more?At times what we think Is not what we sayWe swallow our secrets And hide them away A poetic rapper and storytelling songwriter, Rob Bradley is using his skills to help young people find and develop their voices.

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Book SynopsisA funny collection of football poems by Brian Bilston, the unofficial Poet Laureate of Twitter. Perfect for football fans of all ages – from the young footie fanatic to a been-to-every-game-grandma, and every 'I could've been a pro' in between.Full of poems that will make you giggle about all things football, including being left out of the World Cup squad, mum's opinion on Messi vs Ronaldo, or those unmissable fixtures:I’d love nothing more than to go outsideand spend time with Mother Nature.But what can I do? It’s out of my hands:Nigeria are playing Croatia 50 Ways to Score a Goal and Other Football Poems includes witty chants, a haiku or two, and fun shape poems about the beautiful game. Laugh together through the Euros or Premier League games, and swap the half-time pundits for puns!'Bilston is a magician with words' – Guardian'Someone who knows their way round both a joke and a bittersweet narrative.' – The Times Table of ContentsChapter - 1: Kick-Off Chapter - 2: Football Is... Chapter - 3: Pick Me! Chapter - 4: Trevor Chapter - 5: An Educated Left Foot Chapter - 6: Formations Chapter - 7: The Laws of the Game Chapter - 8: Wonderkid Chapter - 9: The Intergalactic Super Cup Final Chapter - 10: Fifty Ways to Score a Goal Chapter - 11: Fifty Slow Motion Replays Chapter - 12: The Language of Football Chapter - 13: Keepie-Uppies Chapter - 14: On the Bench Chapter - 15: The Thing about Wingers Chapter - 16: A Suggestion Chapter - 17: O.G Chapter - 18: Total Football Chapter - 19: Football Haikus: Starting Chapter - 20: Matchday Chapter - 21: A Cautionary Tale Chapter - 22: Early Morning Goalkeeping Routine Chapter - 23: A Shaggy Dog Story Chapter - 24: Lucky Bobble Hat Chapter - 25: Honest Football Chants Chapter - 26: Transfer List Chapter - 27: Fixtures Chapter - 28: League Table Chapter - 29: A Football Squad of Collective Nouns Chapter - 30: Half-Time Orange Satsuma Chapter - 31: A Poem of Two Halves Chapter - 32: A Ball Speaks Out Chapter - 33: The Magic 18-Yard Box Chapter - 34: The Ballad of Dick, Kerr Ladies FC Chapter - 35: Season’s Greetings Chapter - 36: Acrostic Town FC: Matchday Squad Chapter - 37: In Pursuit of Glory Chapter - 38: Ten Ways to Avoid Passing the Ball to Anybody Chapter - 39: FIFA Chapter - 40: Two Varieties of Potato Chapter - 41: Unsung Hero Chapter - 42: It All Came Out in the Wash Chapter - 43: The Magic Sponge™ Chapter - 44: And the Award Goes to . . . Chapter - 45: Match of the Day Theme: Official Lyrics Chapter - 46: Kit Chapter - 47: On Being Left Out of the England World Cup Squad Chapter - 48: Messi vs Ronaldo Chapter - 49: Life Cycle of a Football Manager Chapter - 50: Every Day is Like a Cup Final Chapter - 51: Back of the Net Chapter - 52: Gabriel Gómez, Number 543 Chapter - 53: End of Term Report Chapter - 54: Dangerous Dave Damage Chapter - 55: The War on Cliché Chapter - 56: Penalty Shoot-Out Chapter - 57: Today’s Results Chapter - 58: Question Time Chapter - 59: Until the Final Whistle Blows Chapter - 60: Post-Book Analysis

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Book SynopsisThe naming of Cats is a difficult matter,It isn't just one of your holiday games;You may think at first I'm as mad as a hatterWhen I tell you, a cat must have THREE DIFFERENT NAMES.So begins one of the best-known poetry collections of all time. The practical cats need no introduction, but this stunning new full-colour version, illustrated by Júlia Sardà, is the perfect companion to Old Toffer's Dogs. Whether you are a cat or a dog person, you will be enchanted by Júlia's highly original interpretation.

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Book SynopsisWinner of the CLPE Award for Children's Poetry 2020. This dazzling poetry collection bubbles with excitement and creativity, capturing the sheer joy of the natural world. Discover parades of beast-doodles, preposterous penguins, talking blossoms, playful birds, humble fleas and a host of other exotic and everyday creatures who jump off the page and into our hearts.Thought-provoking, delightfully original and beautifully illustrated, Cherry Moon will encourage children of every age to explore the power, enchantment and wonderfulness of poetry and nature.

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Book SynopsisThis delightful children's poetry anthology brings together the 100 Best Christmas Poems for Children, edited and introduced by Roger McGough.Trade ReviewThe patron saint of poetry * Carol Ann Duffy * McGough has done for poetry what champagne does for weddings * Time Out * He is a true original and more than one generation would be much the poorer without him * The Times *

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Book Synopsis"A must read" - Marcus Rashford MBE.A New York Times Bestseller.From two heavy-hitters in children's literature comes a biographical novel of seismic cultural importance...Before he was a household name, Cassius Clay was a kid with struggles like any other. Kwame Alexander and James Patterson join forces to vividly depict his life up to age seventeen in both prose and verse, including his childhood friends, struggles in school, the racism he faced, and his discovery of boxing. Readers will learn about Cassius' family and neighbours in Louisville, Kentucky, and how, after a thief stole his bike, Cassius began training as an amateur boxer at age twelve. Before long, he won his first Golden Gloves bout and began his transformation into the unrivalled Muhammad Ali.Fully authorised by and written in cooperation with the Muhammad Ali estate, and vividly brought to life by Dawud Anyabwile's dynamic artwork, Becoming Muhammad Ali captures the budding charisma and youthful personality of one of the greatest sports heroes of all time.Trade ReviewThe prose and poems reflect Clay's both public bravado and private humbleness as well as his appreciation and respect for family and friends. A knockout! * Booklist *

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Book SynopsisA flurry of festive verse, We Wish You A Merry Christmas and Other Festive Poems is a collection selected and intricately, beautifully illustrated by Chris Riddell, the beloved author and illustrator behind Goth Girl, Ottoline and the Cloud Horse Chronicles.Christmas has long been a source of inspiration and a moment of reflection for poets, from traditional verse to modern works. This is the perfect collection for readers young and old, as gorgeous illustrations throughout bring new life to classics, including The Night Before Christmas, The Twelve Days of Christmas, Deck the Halls, We Wish You a Merry Christmas and We Three Kings.Elsewhere, Chris has selected and responded to work from poets including Neil Gaiman, Sylvia Plath, William Wordsworth, Thomas Hardy, Hollie McNish, Sue Hardy Dawson, Roger Stevens, Benjamin Zephaniah, Clare Bevan, Sara Teasdale, A.F. Harrold, Alfred, Lord Tennyson, Ogden Nash, Robert Burns and Jackie Kay. This is a book to treasure, and to return to year after year.'A touching book for getting into the spirit, with poems familiar and less so about the meaning of Christmas, and each page graced with Riddell’s pencil scenes' – Sunday TimesTrade Review'Gloriously entertaining and full of those unique Christmassy vibes, this is the perfect festive selection for poetry lovers young and old.' -- Pam Norfolk * Lancashire Post *A touching book for getting into the spirit, with poems familiar and less so about the meaning of Christmas, and each page graced with Riddell’s pencil scenes * Sunday Times *

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Book SynopsisThe classic Christmas verse in a gorgeous gift book from the highly acclaimed author and illustrator P.J. Lynch.Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house, not a creature was stirring, not even a mouseP.J. Lynch brings his rich and atmospheric art to the well-loved Christmas verse. From the stockings hung by the chimney to the bundle of toys flung over St Nicholas's back, children will love to pore over the detailed images inside. A book to return to again and again.Trade ReviewStunningly atmospheric art also abounds in PJ Lynch’s illustration of the classic Christmas verse ’Twas the Night Before Christmas’. A book to treasure forever. * The Irish Independent *For Christmas Eve, Clement C Moore’s 1823 poem “’Twas The Night Before Christmas” is a must-read, and the great illustrator PJ Lynch has given us a version suffused with winter magic, all warmth and shivery loveliness, for ages 3 to 93. * New Statesman *beautiful reinterpretation […] Lynch, Ireland’s fourth Laureate na nÓg for children’s literature has used a dark Victorian palette lit up like a Vermeer by the glow of snow and candle flame. The pair go together like turkey and cranberry sauce. To be read on Christmas Eve with lashings of nostalgia. * The Times *a stunning new version of the Christmas classic by an award-winning Irish illustrator * The Irish Independent *a long time seasonal favourite * The Irish Catholic *

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Book SynopsisEnter the crazy world of rap poet Benjamin Zephaniah!A reissue of the wonderfully irreverent collection of poetry for young people, touching on anything from vegetables to the Queen and from sewage to the sun. There''s plenty of humour as well as poems on racism, pollution and the murder of a cat.Trade ReviewZephaniah is the reigning king of children's poetry... He has an unselfconscious relish for language and word-play that never strays into the patronising dee-dum-dee-dum-dee-dum territory of so much of children's poetry: his are poems that bounce up from the page and demand to be read, rapped, sung and hip-hopped aloud. * Independent on Sunday *Benjamin Zephaniah's poems are short, funny and modern. This is poetry with attitude * The Times *

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Book SynopsisA personal, powerful and resonant account of the Holocaust by one of this country''s best-loved children's authors.By turns charming, shocking and heart-breaking, this is the true story of Michael Rosen's search for his relatives who went missing during the Second World War told through prose, poetry, maps and pictures. When Michael was growing up, stories often hung in the air about his great-uncles: one was a clock-mender and the other a dentist. They were there before the war, his dad would say, and weren't after. Over many years, Michael tried to find out exactly what happened: he interviewed family members, scoured the internet, pored over books and traveled to America and France. The story he uncovered was one of terrible persecution and it has inspired his poetry for years since. Here, poems old and new are balanced against an immensely readable narrative; both an extraordinary account and a powerful tool for talking to children about the HolocaTrade ReviewRosen makes comparisons with the present-day refugee crisis and injects hope in the final chapter (and, boy, do we need it), with one of his best poems, Today; One Day. Essential reading. * The Times, Book of the Week *Rosen handles the difficult topic as sensitively and thoughtfully as you would expect, always writing in a straightforward and accessible way for children, interspersed with his own poetry. * BookTrust *What is so affecting about this book is its gentle tone. Instead of anger, there is contemplation – and, as always with Rosen, an innate ability to see every mystery through a child’s eyes. * The Telegraph *The personal connection, the use of source materials, the accessibility of the text and the way it encourages empathy (both with historical and current events) all make this an invaluable text for UKS2 and KS3. A poignant and essential read. * ReadingZone *Rosen intersperses his family memoir with his own poetry to create a fascinating, chilling and poignantly personal take on unimaginable horrors of genocide. * The Financial Times *

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Book SynopsisA detailed and very personal guide to reading and writing poetry by one of the country’s leading children’s poets.Over many years as a working poet, Michael Rosen has thought a great deal about what poems are, what they can do and the pleasure that comes from writing and reading poetry. In this invaluable handbook, he shares this knowledge and experience in book form for the very first time. Starting with a detailed analysis of a number of classic poems, he offers a real “writer’s guide” to writing and performing poems, as well as a wealth of technical information and tips. He then takes a fascinating look at a selection of his own poems and explains how and why he wrote them. Complete with an appendix of poets and useful websites, and beautifully illustrated by award-winning artist Jill Calder, this is the only guide to poetry children and teachers will ever need.Trade ReviewRosen shares his knowledge and experience of reading and writing poetry in an invaluable handbook, aimed at children and teachers alike. * The Bookseller *

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Book SynopsisThe newest picture book written and illustrated by the bestselling and award-winning Rob Biddulph, the creative star behind the viral and phenomenal #DrawWithRob!Let's follow the footprints!Let's hunt for some clues!Left footprint! Right footprint!No time to lose!As everybody knows, Red-Footed Boobies are fabulous bakers. But when Desmond's frangipane tart goes missing amidst a flurry of footprints, the Blue-Footed Booby becomes the chief suspect. But all is not as it seemsFeaturing one of the stars of Draw With Rob (video number 24), this is a gloriously silly rhyming story about the perils of jumping to conclusions. Perfect read-aloud fun for children aged 3+!Trade ReviewPraise for GRRRRR!: ‘Vibrant colours and characters plus rhyming text make it a delight to read aloud.’ Huffington Post ‘Joyful and uplifting. Superb.’ Daily Mail ‘Totally grrrrreat in every respect.’ The Bookbag ‘The rhyme is so skillful and pacey it could give the Gruffalo a run for its money.’ Children’s Books Ireland Praise for Blown Away: ‘Best children’s book of the year.’ Observer ‘[A] gem of a book … Beautifully illustrated and wittily written.’ Standard ‘This book is capital B Brilliant.’ The Bookbag ‘Told in captivating rhyme, with plenty of jokes sprinkled through the text and illustrations, Biddulph’s tale is a travelling adventure.’ Time Out

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Book Synopsis_______________A wonderful poetry collection fizzing with fun from the much loved Michael Rosen, packed with colour illustrations by David Tazzyman. Includes an audio CD of Michael Rosen reading his poems.A riotous celebration of words silly words, funny words, words you only use in your own family, new words, old words, and the very best words in the right order.MelonMelon squashy,melon sloshy.My friend Helen's eating melon.So far, so goodwith Helenand her melon.But here's what I'm tellin'Helen:Don't SIT on your melon, Helen!'Filled with colour illustrations and packed with silly rhymes, witty wordplay and thought-provoking story poems, this collection will delight children of all ages. Michael Rosen is the bestselling author of We're Going on a Bear Hunt, along with many other picture books and collections of poetry.Trade ReviewFull of poems that I love … illustrated with wild enthusiasm and style * The Times *This entertaining compilation will entertain for hours, if not days ... Exuberant, amusing illustrations complement this compendium of poems about everyday happenings and extraordinary events ... Ideal for reading aloud at home or at school * BookTrust *Rosen doesn’t just do funny ... he is funny ... Rosen is the real deal * Sunday Times on UNCLE GOBB AND THE DREAD SHED *Ramshackle and silly in the best possible way * Financial Times on UNCLE GOBB AND THE DREAD SHED *

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Book SynopsisDown by the meadow that blows wild and free There's a world full of wonders I want you to see... Great to read aloud and packed full of fun and humour, these stories help young readers aged 5+ to understand the interconnectedness of nature Lively tales told in rhyming verse are followed up with non-fiction explainers which summarise the science behind each story Written by science writer and poet Gabby Dawnay, each read-aloud story celebrates everyday miracles in a woodland. 5 minute stories include: - The Mystery of Mushrooms - The Song of the Deer - The Flight of the Starlings - The Magical Metamorphosis of Frogs - The Dance of the Honeybee Accessible 5 minute story format · Each story introduces a key scientific topic, starring a sweet, woodland character, from the lifecycle of a mushroom to photosynthesis · Each story ends with a non-fiction information page to explain more about what you've seen in each story Words of praise for this book: "A gift to inform and delight the youngest nature lovers" ? Waterstones Also in the 5 Minute Stories Series: - 5 Minute Human Body StoriesTrade ReviewA gift to inform and delight the youngest nature lovers. — Waterstones

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Book SynopsisWild Town is a place… “where nothing’s locked inside a cage where danger leaps from off the page where wild is a fact of life and words are sharpened like a knife” Do you dare to come to Wild Town? You’ll find zebras dancing in Herbivoreville, or if you feel like a change, book into the Chrysalis Hotel in Fluttertown – no room service. Watch out for the tigers of Bengal Street in the Carnivore Quarter and maybe avoid the fish tank in number 3, Danger Close - it’s stocked with piranhas and electric eels. In Wolf Park you may come across a silent, stalking wolf and at the Wild Town Rec polar bears are pushing on the slide and orcas are in the paddling pool. While at the quiet end of town dormice are sleeping and grumpy Bertha the Bear is slumbering. One thing is certain – you will never be the same after a visit to Wild Town, and when you leave, the wild will go with you…. An exciting poetry adventure, a journey of wild encounters in streets, houses and parks - this is an astonishing and brilliant poetry collection by two of the UK’s most admired poets. Illustrated with verve and wit by the internationally bestselling illustrator Korky Paul.Trade Review"This is a magical collection of children’s poetry. The poems range from hilarious to melancholy to quirky. Ideal for Year 5/6." * Jon Biddle *"Oh this is just Glorious! Three of most talented people in children’s literature working together - it’s fun, zany, moving and defiant! Bravo!" * The Reading Realm *"A new wild new poetry collection published by Otter Barry Books. Such a rich mix of poems inside from both poets. Definitely one to have in Key Stage 2 classrooms." -- Charlotte Hacking, CLPE"Including narrative poems, short observations, poems to read aloud and catchy wordplay, the text is set to dazzling illustrations by Korky Paul. If you are a teacher looking for poems to teach in a Forest School setting or an environment topic, or to model in creative writing, this perceptive collection is perfect." * School Reading List *"This reviewer enjoyed a foray into such a special place where both the verbal and visual pictures leave an indelible memory. May the wild go with you too." -- Jill Bennett * Red Reading Hub *"Here be wildness that is funny, free, strange, savage, beautiful and moving. Stunning new children’s poetry collection." -- Gordon Askew"This exciting mix of funny, sinister and contemplative verse by two highly-acclaimed poets centres on all things wild, from animals and plants to weather and wild ideas. Illustrated throughout with quirky black-and-white artwork." * Booktrust: Books We Love in October 2023 *"...Dom Conlon draws the reader into this clever, slim anthology in which he and AF Harrold imagine a Wild Town peopled by insects, zebras, lions, wolves and others – a wild town that is in reality every town. There are poems to suit every taste... The words sing, shout and whisper, the vocabulary rich and varied. Providing the perfect visual accompaniment are Korky Paul’s spiky, energetic, humorous illustrations. This is a thoroughly enjoyable collection from the pens of two poets who know how to speak to young readers and is well worth promoting in the classroom – and at home." * Books for Keeps *

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Book SynopsisTen-year-old Hà has only ever known Saigon: the thrills of its markets, the joy of its traditions, and the warmth of her family and friends close by. But when the Vietnam War reaches the gates of her home, Hà and her family are forced to flee.The journey onboard a refugee ship bound for America is hard - but nothing can prepare Hà for the strangeness of the country that greets them on the other side. The language is impossible, the food is strange - and not all the locals are friendly. But amongst her struggles, Hà finds joy, friendship - and most of all, the power of hope, love and family.Trade ReviewCaptures a child-refugee's struggle with rare honesty. Written in accessible, short free-verse . . . readers will be moved by Hà's sorrow as they recognize the anguish of being the outcast. * Booklist (starred review) *An incisive portrait of human resilience * Publishers Weekly (starred review) *

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Book SynopsisA collection of the very best poems for children, edited by Roger McGoughA wonderful collection of contemporary and classic poems chosen by children from schools around the UK. Roger McGough made the final selection and wrote the introduction.Roger McGough was born in Liverpool and educated at the University of Hull. He came to prominence in the 1960s with the publication of THE MERSEY SOUND, and is one of today''s most popular poets. He writes for children and adults and performs his poetry all over the world. He was honoured with an OBE in 1997, and won the Signal Poetry Award in 1998. Roger now lives in London.Sheila Moxley is gaining a powerful reputation for her multi-cultural illustration. She lives in London.

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Book SynopsisA magnificent anthology of poems themed around different moods, collected by the bestselling creator of The Poetry Pharmacy and illustrated by Emily Sutton.This exquisite gift-book contains over a hundred poems, chosen by creator of the bestselling The Poetry Pharmacy, William Sieghart, and illustrated in sensational style by picture-book star Emily Sutton. Divided into four thoughtfully-curated sections, including Poems to Make You Smile, Poems to Move You, Poems to Give You Hope and Poems to Calm and Connect You, the poems originate from an extraordinary and diverse range of sources, from Maya Angelou to Roger McGough, Lemn Sissay, Jackie Kay, Carol Ann Duffy, Joseph Coelho, Kae Tempest, W.B. Yeats, Christina Rossetti and Emily Dickinson, among many others. Combining traditional favourites with recent gems, here are poems to delight, inspire, entertain, intrigue, console and uplift readers of all ages.Trade Reviewcomplimented by exquisite art from Sutton * The Bookseller *This is an anthology that will appeal to every generation with plenty of remedies should tempers flare on Christmas Day. * The Daily Telegraph *With a brilliant selection of short poems on every possible feeling, there is something here for every reader, young and old. * The Irish Independent *With contributions from poets such as Wordsworth, T. S. Eliot and Thomas Hardy, as well as contemporary voices, including Lemn Sissay and Kae Tempest, this comprehensive volume offers poems to Inspire, Move, Calm, Connect You and Make You Smile. And they will. * The Daily Mail *This is a large, beautiful hardback that can be enjoyed by everyone in the family […] Emily Sutton’s illustrations are absolutely gorgeous, I Love the colours she uses and how she interprets each poem. The combination of words and pictures creates a wonderful book to explore and treasure. * Juno *

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Book SynopsisJoyful and colourful reimagining of the American folk song, We're Going on a Bear Hunt.Three children are off on an Easter egg hunt! But first, they've got to get through the flapping hens, hungry bunnies and hopping frogs. And then . . . what a surprise to find TEN big eggs in the garden! And now it's time for the Easter parade!This Easter-themed story has zingy neon ink on the cover and throughout, and is filled with cute characters and fun surprises. Repeated phrases and sound words make this an interactive picture book, great for sharing with the whole family.This is the perfect gift for fans of the classic song We're Going on a Bear Hunt, made famous by Michael Rosen and Helen Oxenbury.Every Nosy Crow paperback picture book comes with a free "Stories Aloud" audio recording. Just scan the QR code and listen along!

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