Being Me

"A ground-breaking anthology of 45 poems by three leading poets offers understanding, support and encouragement."

* Achuka *

"Forty-five new poems confront anxieties and worries, helping with ways to develop empathy and mindfulness."

-- Fiona Noble * The Bookseller *

"In 2021, this book could be just the answer for so many children who are facing anxiety and worries about their life and the world."

* Dolphin Book Blog *

"Very much in tune with the feelings the three poets have written of are the quirky black and white illustrations by new illustrator Victoria Jane Wheeler; and the book concludes with a note from developmental psychologist Dr Karen Goodall that includes some suggestions as to how an adult might open up a discussion. A special book that I strongly recommend for both school and home collections."

* Red Reading Hub *

"So often books with a 'message' are contrived or over-earnest but this is absolutely not the case for Being Me with its authentic voices & compassionate clarity... This is surely a book for our times."

* Reading Zone *

"Such a useful anthology to have in class to spark discussion and raise awareness of the lived experiences of others as well as support children’s development of emotional literacy and empathy...Perfect for children throughout Key Stage 2."

* Literacy Tree *

"From reading the first poem in this collection I was hooked and read poem after poem finding they spoke to me in so many ways."

* Just Imagine *

"This important and unique anthology of 45 poems by three leading poets, well known for their empathy and perception, speaks to the heart of what children think and care about, offering understanding, support, and encouragement."

* Goodreads *

"This is a truly stunning collection of poignant, powerful poems by three outstanding poets, illustrated by Victoria Jane Wheeler… each and every poem is a real gem. I cannot recommend this collection highly enough."

* North Somerset Teachers' Book Award *

"Children are often more aware of troubled times – at home or in the world around them – than adults give them credit for... This new book by established children’s poets, Brownlee, Goodfellow and Mucha aims to help."

* Poetry Zone *

"A new collection from the talented pens of @Lizpoet, @EarlyTrain & @lauramucha.This anthology speaks of worries that touch children’s lives. Some offer solutions, others recognition. The poems could be used in KS2 assemblies, PSHCE & literacy lessons."

* West Sussex Schools Library Service *

"This is an anthology not just for today. The subjects covered are ones that children everywhere have experienced – and will continue to experience. These are poems to be shared with the whole class or family or given to the child who needs something immediate. Empathetic, sympathetic, reassuring – recommended for both KS1 and KS2 teachers and pupils alike... The illustrations by Victoria Wheeler are a perfect adjunct to the words – spiky, simple, pen and ink images that capture a mood or situation, allowing the imagination free rein."

* Books for Keeps (5 star review) *

"No4 in #12PoetryBooksofChristmas is Being Me @OtterBarryBooks by the fabulous @Lizpoet @EarlyTrain & @lauramucha deserving of its place on this year's @clpe1 shortlist this is a book should be on the curriculum & in every school."

-- Sue Hardy-Dawson * via Twitt