I Don't Like Poetry
What’s inside...
Shortlisted for the Laugh Out Loud Awards - the UK's only prize for funny children's books. A brilliant collection of poems by an exciting young poet, this book is perfect, whether you like poetry or not! 'When you read this book, the windows will burp and the grass will turn blue. That's how magical and hilarious the poems are! Dive into the imaginative world created by the poet and prepare to be amused and surprised with every page turn.
Why read this book
- Humorous, engaging verses spark children’s interest in poetry.
- Addresses common childhood aversion to poetry relatably.
- Encourages creativity and appreciation for linguistic play.
- Ideal for interactive read-aloud sessions.
The Big Picture
- Encourages openness to new experiences.
- Fosters emotional intelligence and resilience.
- Perfect for discussing value of persistence.
- Inspires joy in unexpected discoveries.
What parents love
- Perfect blend of fun narrative and educational content.
- Respectfully introduces complex themes, ideal for young minds.
- Engaging, humorous, keeps my child asking for more!
- Promotes literacy with lovely, understandable poetry.
Diversity & Representation
- Portrays a variety of experiences through different poetic styles.
- Encourages inclusion by showcasing diverse thoughts and emotions.
- Promotes acceptance of differing viewpoints and feelings.
Discussion points
What part of the book made you laugh the most, and why?
Can you think of a time when you felt similar to the character in the poem?
What do you think the author wants us to learn from these poems?
If you could write a poem, what would it be about?
How do you think using poetry changes the way we can talk about our feelings?
Tip: Role play these questions
Share your own thoughts about the poems to model open conversation.
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the book, even if they are different from your own.
Relate discussions to personal experiences or similar events that your child might have encountered.
Praise your child’s responses to show that their thoughts and opinions are valued.
Use the poems as a creative springboard, prompting your child to try writing their own poetry based on their experiences and emotions.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Appreciation of Poetry
Explanation: Through engaging poems and fun language, 'I Don't Like Poetry' encourages children to find joy and interest in poetry, challenging the initial reluctance of the narrator.
Real-World Application: Children can be motivated to explore different forms of reading and writing in their academic subjects, and potentially develop a lifelong appreciation for poetry.
Example Lesson: Creativity and Expression
Explanation: The book illustrates creativity through its playful use of words and imaginative themes, demonstrating that poetry can be a powerful medium for self-expression.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to express their thoughts, feelings, and experiences creatively, whether in writing or other forms of art, enhancing their emotional intelligence and communication skills.
Example Lesson: Overcoming Prejudices
Explanation: The narrator starts with a strong dislike for poetry, which changes as the story progresses, symbolizing the idea of overcoming initial biases or dislikes.
Real-World Application: This lesson can encourage children to remain open-minded and give a fair chance to new experiences and subjects at school, which they might initially resist.
I Bet I Can Make You Laugh: Poems by Joshua Seigal and Friends
Joshua Seigal, Nill, 2018
96 pages
Why to read
Hilarious poems ensure an engaging and enjoyable read.
Encourages creativity and linguistic playfulness in young readers.
Perfect for interactive read-along sessions in families.
Supports literacy development with rhythmic, easy-to-read verses.
Book cover is on its way
I Bet I Can Make You Laugh: Poems by Joshua Seigal and Friends
Joshua Seigal, Nill, 2018
- Award winning
Poem in Your Pocket for Young Poets (Library Edition--nonperforated pages)
A. American, Academy Of American Poets, Bruno Navasky, Inc. Academy of American Poets, 2011
232 pages
Why to read
Inspires creativity through engaging, child-friendly poetry.
Enhances vocabulary and language skills effectively.
Encourages self-expression and emotional exploration.
Ideal for classroom and home reading settings.
Book cover is on its way
Poem in Your Pocket for Young Poets (Library Edition--nonperforated pages)
A. American, Academy Of American Poets, Bruno Navasky, Inc. Academy of American Poets, 2011
- Award winning
A Whale of a Time: Funny Poems for Each Day of the Year
Lou Peacock, Matt Hunt, 2023
336 pages
Why to read
365 witty poems spark daily imagination and joy.
Enhances linguistic skills with playful, rhyming verse.
Addresses daily life themes, aiding emotional development.
Perfect for bedtime, instilling a love for poetry.
A Whale of a Time: Funny Poems for Each Day of the Year
Lou Peacock, Matt Hunt, 2023
- Award winning
The Puffin Book of Salt-sea Verse
Charles Causley, Antony Maitland, 1978
352 pages
Why to read
Captivates with adventurous, maritime-themed poems.
Enhances vocabulary through rich, engaging language.
Fosters a love for poetry and rhythm.
Encourages emotional connection to diverse sea stories.
The Puffin Book of Salt-sea Verse
Charles Causley, Antony Maitland, 1978
- Award winning
Wicked Poems
Roger Mcgough, Neal Layton, 2004
208 pages
Why to read
Stimulates creativity with playful and mischievous themes.
Enhances vocabulary through engaging rhymes and rhythms.
Encourages emotional development by exploring diverse feelings.
Invites family involvement with enjoyable read-aloud potential.
Wicked Poems
Roger Mcgough, Neal Layton, 2004