Dragon Cat

Perfect for exploring and enjoying at home or at school, Dragon Cat is a simply brilliant poetry collection. There are so many poems here which could be used as models to inspire children - or adults.

'The Bag of Secrets', for example, uses a similar structure to 'The Magic Box' by Kit Wright, a perennial favourite in schools, and this shows how poets magpie ideas, twist and shape them in their own way, before creating something new. Children could build their own work, using the repetitive lines and use of the senses, working together or independently. 'When I Blew the Magic Dust' could be used in a similar way! 'As a Result' is another work which lends itself to gathering, exploring and creating linked images and ideas whilst 'Mysteries' or 'Wobbling Rainbows' put all those questions children love to ask to great use!

A wonderful range of poetic styles and techniques are included - riddles, acrostics, kennings - and the collection is rich in imagery and word play, making the poems not only a joy to read, but perfect for performing and sharing. 'In the Dragon's Cave' (another poem perfect for innovation!) would make a brilliant performance piece as would 'Coming Out of Hibernation' - and who wouldn't enjoy performing 'Silent Poem to be Read Aloud'!

Many of the poems have additional notes, often referencing the inspiration behind them, leading to further learning. 'There's a Lobster on the Phone' could lead to children investigating the work of Salvador Dali whilst 'The Planets' could introduce them to the work of Holst.

There is plenty of humour here as well, enhanced by the energetic line drawings of Tom Morgan-Jones. Whether to promote discussion, inspire, enthuse or entertain, this is an essential addition to any poetry collection!

112 pages / Reviewed by Sue Wilsher, teacher

Suggested Reading Age 5+