The Poetry World of John Agard

By Author / Illustrator

John Agard, Shirley Hottier, Darren Chetty

Genre

Poetry

Age range(s)

Publisher

Otter-Barry Books

ISBN

9781915659477

Format

Hardback

Published

10-07-2025

Synopsis

A towering figure in the children's and YA poetry world, John Agard has chosen favourite poems from eight of his previously published collections: I Din Do Nuttin; Say it Again, Granny; No Hickory, No Dickory, No Dock;
Laughter is an Egg; Grandfather's Old Bruk-a-Down Car; We Animals Would Like a Word With You; Come Back to Me My Boomerang, and Points of View With Professor Peekaboo.

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.

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Reviews

Sue

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 Poetry World of John Agard covers works from John's first book, I Din Do Nuttin, published in 1983, through to Points of View With Professor Peekaboo, which was published in 2000. Many of the poems here are ones which I have shared and used with children throughout my teaching career (I shall never forget one group's performance of 'No Hickory, No Dickory, No Dock'!) and so know how much John Agard's poems appeal to, and are enjoyed by, children.

Each section is prefaced with an introduction from John Agard, offering reflection on the section to come and plenty of inspiration. 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.

There are so many poems here which work well in the classroom - I've already mentioned 'No Hickory, No Dickory, No Dock' as a brilliant performance piece. Another joy to perform is 'Grandfather's Old Bruk-a-Down Car'. 'Under the Arch' works really well as a model poem to inspire children's own ideas and many are just perfect for sharing at any time! ‎

128 pages / Ages 6+ / Reviewed by Sue Wilsher, teacher