For babies and children up to age 12, these books will inspire a love for poetry. Children enjoy rhyme, word play and being creative with language.
Baby to 3 years
I See The Moon by Rosalind Beardshaw
A collection of favourite rhymes for bedtime. Rosalind Beardshaw's artwork features adorable sleepy animals and babies ready to be lulled to sleep.
My Village: Rhymes from Around the World compiled by Danielle Wright and illustrated by Mique Moriuchi
From Iran to Iceland, Samoa to Switzerland, readers can enjoy verses from 22 different countries. Paired with Mique Moriuchi's bright illustrations of children from around the world, this book is a great introduction to different cultures through poetry.
A Great Big Cuddle by Michael Rosen and illustrated by Chris Riddell
A child's world with all its details – toys and games, animals and made-up creatures, likes and dislikes – is brilliantly captured by Rosen's playful rhymes and tongue twisters.
Ages 3 to 4 years
We're All Works of Art by Mark Sperring and illustrated by Rose Blake
Celebrate diversity with this wonderful book that tells children that it's OK to be different. Told from the viewpoint of works of art, the book uses different styles to show that we're all works of art in our own special way.
A First Book of Animals by Nicola Davies and illustrated by Petr Horacek
From blue whales to bumblebee bats and everything in between, this book will take your child all over the planet to learn about all kinds of different creatures. The easy-to-read poetry is full of information and illustrated by Petr Horacek.
Green Eggs and Ham by Dr. Seuss
An enduring classic for a reason! Follow Sam-I-am as he insists that this strange treat is a delicious snack to be eaten everywhere and in every way.
Ages 5 to 8 years
Under the Moon and Over the Sea by various poets, edited by Grace Nichol and John Agard
The sights, sounds, tastes and tales of the Caribbean come alive in this collection of poetry for younger children. Divided into five sections, each is colourfully illustrated by a different artist with scenes of the Caribbean.
How to be a Tiger by George Szirtes and illustrated by Tim Archbold
Leap with hares, run with the wind, pull silly faces with monkeys, watch out for the bear in the bathroom and meet a burping princess! This light-hearted and entertaining collection of poetry features all types of animals and their fantastic adventures.
Revolting Rhymes by Roald Dahl and illustrated by Quentin Blake
Fairytales as you've never seen them before! Six of the best-loved tales are retold with surprising and sometimes disgusting twists. Wicked beasts, brazen crooks and a ghastly giant star in these hilarious rhymes.
Ages 9 to 12 years
My Mum's Growing Down by Laura Dockrill and illustrated by David Tazzyman
These poems from the perspective of a little boy feature tales of his creative, warm and often embarrassing mum. Filled with their antics and adventures, Dockrill's poetry shows just how funny, rude and naughty mums can be.
Poetry for Kids: Emily Dickinson by Emily Dickinson, edited by Susan Snively and illustrated by Christine Davenier
Discover the famous works of poet Emily Dickinson. This carefully selected collection showcases her thoughts on nature, animals and different stages of life with each poem beautifully illustrated by Christine Davenier.
How To Write Poems by Joseph Coelho and illustrated by Matt Robertson
Jam-packed with poetic inspiration, amazing activities and tips on getting started, this book will make every reader a brilliant poet, whether they already write or want ideas to get them going.
I Don't Like Poetry by Joshua Seigal
With poems on every topic from the power of books to the joys of fried chicken, this collection is a fabulous mix of Joshua Seigal's subversive humour and insight into the world of children.
