I am a Poetato
on Goodreads (29)
What’s inside...
This is a very funny, witty, zany collection for children, which will also appeal to the author's adult fans. It has all the John Hegley comic hallmarks, including references to wearing glasses, Luton, and dogs (being superior to cats)! The poems are arranged alphabetically by title, with family pets and other animals featuring strongly, from a mosquito and ants, through wise camels, goldfish and guillemots to Toby the armadillo from Peru, and not forgetting the unusual unicorn in school. The book is packed with John's unique brand of deadpan humour, and is illustrated in scrap-book style with the author's own quirky line drawings. This is a poetry book like no other!
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
9-12
Length
64 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What did you think about the different poems in the book? Which one was your favorite and why?
How do you think the poetato feels about being different? Have you ever felt like that?
The book uses a lot of wordplay and puns. Can you think of a fun pun or a playful way to describe your day?
If you could write a poem about any topic, what would it be about? Why does that topic interest you?
How do the illustrations add to the poems? Do they make the poems funnier, sadder, or more interesting?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by reading the book together with your child, allowing them to explore the illustrations fully.
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about each poem, linking it to their own experiences.
Discuss the use of language and creativity in the book. Highlight how words can be used playfully.
Create a nurturing environment for discussion by showing genuine interest in your child's opinions and perspectives.
After discussing, encourage your child to write their own short poem, using playful language like in the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Creativity and Expression
Explanation: Through quirky poems and fun wordplay, 'I am a Poetato' emphasizes the joy of expressing oneself creatively.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to engage in their own creative writing or art projects, learning to express their thoughts and feelings in unique ways.
Example Lesson: Language Skills
Explanation: The variety of vocabulary and playful use of language in the book aids in enhancing linguistic skills.
Real-World Application: Kids can expand their vocabulary and improve their understanding of language, aiding in both verbal and written communication.
Example Lesson: Appreciation for Poetry
Explanation: By introducing children to poetry through humorous and accessible poems, this book fosters an early appreciation for this literary form.
Real-World Application: Children can be motivated to explore more poetry, participate in readings, or listen to a variety of poems, which can enhance their literary appreciation and empathy.
Example Lesson: Self-confidence
Explanation: The book portrays characters who are confident and proud of their poetic skills, regardless of how quirky they are.
Real-World Application: This can teach children to appreciate their own unique talents and express themselves confidently in public or within their peer group.