The Everyman Anthology of Poetry for Children: Illustrated by Thomas Bewick (Everyman's Library Children's Classics Series)
Everyman'S Library Children'S Classics Series
What’s inside...
The Everyman Anthology of Poetry for Children is a treasury of great poems selected for the pleasure of readers of all ages. Compiler Gillian Avery aimed to avoid condescending to children and to create a collection that grows with the reader, including few poems written solely for children. The anthology features over 250 poems ranging from ballads to epics, and includes works from poets like Mother Goose, Shakespeare, and Emily Dickinson. Enriched with engravings by Thomas Bewick, this collection is designed to enchant, entertain, and resonate, making it a valuable addition to any family library.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
6-7
Length
379 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What feelings do different poems in the book evoke in you?
How do the illustrations by Thomas Bewick enhance the meaning of the poems?
Can you think of a moment in your own life that relates to a theme in one of the poems?
Which poem is your favorite and why?
How do you think poetry might help us understand the world better?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their emotions and thoughts about each poem. Discuss the visual elements by Thomas Bewick and how they complement or contrast the text. Connect themes from the poems to real-life events or personal experiences to make the discussion more relatable. Ask your child to pick their favorite poem and explain their choice, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: Through diverse poems that depict different emotions and scenarios, children learn to understand and empathize with feelings and situations different from their own.
Real-World Application: Children can use this understanding to better connect with their peers, improving their social interactions and emotional intelligence.
Example Lesson: Appreciation for Nature
Explanation: Many of the poems in this collection celebrate nature, encouraging children to observe and respect the natural world around them.
Real-World Application: This appreciation can lead to environmentally conscious behavior from a young age, such as recycling and conserving water.
Example Lesson: Creativity and Imagination
Explanation: The evocative illustrations and vivid language in the poetry stimulate the imagination, inspiring children to create their own stories or artwork.
Real-World Application: Enhanced creativity is beneficial in problem-solving and can be expressed in various aspects of daily life, such as art projects and creative writing.
Example Lesson: Language Skills
Explanation: Reading poetry introduces children to a range of vocabulary and linguistic styles, helping them develop their language skills.
Real-World Application: This improved command of language aids in better verbal and written communication, essential for academic success and personal expression.
Example Lesson: Cultural Awareness
Explanation: The anthology includes poems from various cultures, providing a glimpse into different traditions and perspectives.
Real-World Application: Exposure to diverse cultures promotes inclusivity and respect, helping children navigate and appreciate a multicultural world.