The Poetry World of John Agard

"John Agard is not just one of our greatest poets and writers for children, but one of our greatest writers period." 

-- Piers Torday

"He makes us laugh and makes us think, he plays with language, attacks it, makes it his own."

-- Frank Cottrell Boyce

"Acclaimed poet John Agard selects 80 of his liveliest, funniest and most engaging poems in this enticing illustrated collection for 6+, including No Hickory, No Dickory, No Dock, and Mouth Open, Story Jump Out."

-- Imogen Russell Williams * The Guardian *

'On stage Agard is a mischievous and charismatic performer and here he brings his trademark wit and wordplay to a selection of 80 of his poems for younger readers... Light, bright and life-affirming.'

* The Times *

"It’s a brilliant introduction to Agard’s playful and thought provoking poetry for KS2 readers. Highly recommended."

* School Reading List *

"Superbly evocative illustrations from Shirley Hottier, which match the theme of the poems so well. Otter-Barry Books have always brought great poetry books for children and this is an amazing new title to have…"

* Book Monitor *

"This is the book of the summer….Over 80 poems are included, reflecting the genius of Agard through a range of poetic forms and styles and most of all his extraordinary ability to connect with children of all ages through poetry."

* Achuka *

"This incredible book contains eighty of John Agard’s poems, selected from eight of his previous collections. It is an absolute treasure trove of poetic joy, deserving a place on every library, classroom and home bookshelf…..The collection is rich in both his playful, light-hearted poems and his more thought-provoking work, making it perfect for returning to again and again."

* Through The Bookshelf *

"It’s fascinating, heartwarming, and thrilling to look back at all these absolute classics…. It’s no exaggeration to say John Agard is a genius; his poems are very funny, very playful, full of empathy, and just the best to read out loud. The illustrator Shirley Hottier has done a wonderful job... This is a masterful collection of wonderful poems that every primary school and home should have on its shelves."

* BookTrust *

"This incredible book contains eighty of John Agard's poems, selected from eight of his previous collections. It is an absolute treasure trove of poetic joy, deserving a place on every library, classroom and home bookshelf"

* Reading Zo