logo Wed, 25 Dec 2024 15:07:32 GMT

101 Poems for Children


Synopsis


Carol Ann Duffy, appointed Poet Laureate in 2009, has chosen her favourite poems for children for this stunning collection of classic and modern verse, exquisitely illustrated by multi-award-winning illustrator Emily Gravett.

Featuring such classic poems as 'The Owl and the Pussycat' by Edward Lear and Lewis Carroll's 'Jabberwocky' alongside Edwin Morgan's 'The Loch Ness Monster's Song' and 'Balloons' by Sylvia Plath, 101 Poems for Children Chosen by Carol Ann Duffy: A Laureate's Choice is a delight for children of all ages and a pleasure to read aloud.

Carol Ann Duffy (editor of compilation), Emily Gravett (illustrator)

Summary

Chapter 1: Nature

This chapter celebrates the wonders of the natural world, from the bustling activity of insects to the gentle sway of trees in the wind.

* Poem: "The Caterpillar" by Christina Rossetti
* Example: "A graceful creature, green and plump and striped, / It crawls and curls upon the slender leaf."

Chapter 2: Animals

From playful pups to soaring eagles, this chapter showcases the diverse and enchanting animal kingdom.

* Poem: "My Dog" by Robert Browning
* Example: "He likes to have his nose poked into // My plate at dinner-time."

Chapter 3: Nursery Rhymes

These beloved traditional rhymes entertain, educate, and spark laughter in children of all ages.

* Poem: "Humpty Dumpty"
* Example: "Humpty Dumpty sat on a wall, / Humpty Dumpty had a great fall."

Chapter 4: Silly Poems

These whimsical and nonsensical poems invite children to embrace their imaginations and have some fun.

* Poem: "The Jabberwocky" by Lewis Carroll
* Example: "Twas brillig, and the slithy toves / Did gyre and gimble in the wabe."

Chapter 5: Adventure

Exploring faraway lands, facing challenges, and embracing the unknown are the themes of this adventurous chapter.

* Poem: "The Owl and the Pussy-Cat" by Edward Lear
* Example: "The Owl and the Pussy-Cat went to sea / In a beautiful pea-green boat."

Chapter 6: Imagination

The power of imagination takes center stage in this chapter, encouraging children to dream big and explore their creativity.

* Poem: "Where the Mind Is without Fear" by Rabindranath Tagore
* Example: "Where the mind is without fear and the head is held high; / Where knowledge is free."

Chapter 7: Life Lessons

Poetry can also teach valuable lessons about kindness, perseverance, and the human spirit.

* Poem: "Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening" by Robert Frost
* Example: "Whose woods these are I think I know. / His house is in the village though; / He will not see me stopping here."

Chapter 8: Celebrations

From birthdays to holidays, this chapter celebrates the special moments in life.

* Poem: "A Birthday" by A.A. Milne
* Example: "If I were a bear, of honey fond, / On my birthday I'd eat it all up."

Chapter 9: Love and Friendship

The importance of love, friendship, and family is beautifully expressed in this chapter.

* Poem: "A Valentine" by Robert Herrick
* Example: "Some ask me why I love her so? / I can but answer thus: / Because she is my mistress, you know."

Chapter 10: Poetry Games

This interactive chapter encourages children to engage with poetry in fun and playful ways.

* Game: The "I Spy" Poetry Game
* Example: "I spy a poem that rhymes with 'cat,' / With a mouse as its main character."