Mustard, Custard, Grumble Belly and Gravy
on Goodreads (93)
What’s inside...
'You Can’t Catch Me' and 'You Can’t Put Mustard in the Custard' are two collections of children's poetry first published 25 years ago. 'You Can’t Catch Me' won the Signal Poetry Award in 1982 and both books became bestsellers. The collections have been combined and feature conversational, fun poetry matched with detailed full-color illustrations. A CD is included for children to listen to their favorite poems. The books have been praised for their appeal to both children and adults, with endorsements from the Big Issue, Daily Telegraph, and Times Educational Supplement.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
5-7
Length
100 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think about the different adventures in the poems? Which one would you like to go on?
How did the book make you feel when you read about the funny and silly scenes?
What is your favourite poem in the book and why?
If you could create your own silly poem, what would it be about?
How do you think the characters felt during their adventures?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the book by asking them to describe their favorite parts or characters. Use expressive gestures and fun voices to mimic the actions in the poems, making the reading experience more lively and engaging. After reading, relate the poems to your child’s personal experiences to deepen their understanding and connection to the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embrace Creativity
Explanation: Through engaging and whimsical poems, Michael Rosen encourages children to explore and appreciate the creative process.
Real-World Application: Children are inspired to use their imagination in daily activities, whether in storytelling, drawing, or problem-solving, fostering a creative mindset.
Example Lesson: Importance of Language and Expression
Explanation: The book's diverse range of poems showcases the richness of language, demonstrating different ways to express ideas and emotions.
Real-World Application: Kids learn to articulate their thoughts and feelings more effectively, aiding in emotional development and interpersonal communication.
Example Lesson: Joy in Everyday Moments
Explanation: Rosen's poems find wonder and happiness in everyday life, turning ordinary moments into extraordinary ones.
Real-World Application: Children can appreciate and find happiness in simple daily experiences, enhancing their overall well-being and perspective on life.
Example Lesson: Value of Humor
Explanation: The playful and often humorous tone of the poems instills a sense of joy and laughter in reading.
Real-World Application: Introducing humor into everyday situations can help children cope with challenges and build social bonds.