‘The Folio Book of Children’s Poetry’ introduced by Penelope Lively, published by The Folio Society
Best: Overall
Score: 10/10
This anthology is one of those books that just feels special. From the strokeable cloth-bound cover to the gorgeous illustrations by Lesley Barnes, it’s quite honestly a joy to look at and hold. Our five-year-old tester loved the glow-in-the-dark designs on the front and back of the book – so much so, that switching off the lights to look at the pictures before we read the poems has become a regular part of bedtime!
Visual appeal aside, this book absolutely delivers on fun, inspiring and engaging content that had our young tester excited to find out which poems were coming next. Booker Prize-winning author Penelope Lively introduces a wonderful collection of poems from old favourites including Seamus Heaney and William Blake, with classics like Sara Coleridge’s “The Garden Year” and T.S Eliot’s “Macavity: The Mystery Cat” both proving very popular with our five-year-old. There are over 80 poems to choose from, and we think there’s definitely something for all ages of children, right up to early teens.
Enjoyable to read and something that will look beautiful on your bookshelf, this is the ideal introduction to the world of poetry. A beautiful keepsake that would make an excellent new baby present for families to enjoy together for years to come.