Tomorrow We Begin: Poems to find yourself in, perfect for 11+

One of the most commonly posed questions in a Lower School English class must be, 'Does it have to rhyme?' Tomorrow We Begin, Matt Goodfellow's powerful insight into the trials and tribulations of teenage life, makes a superb collection of poems that not only answers that repeatedly-asked question but will also resonate with the teens themselves.

Throughout this collection, Matt Goodfellow has somehow managed to get inside the minds of some of the troubled and tormented individuals that roam the corridors of most secondary schools. His poems tell tales of starting new at school, trying to fit in, absent parents and much more. An ideal collection to read and discuss in any class, it will no doubt benefit many worried teenagers, helping them to realise that they are not alone; there are people who will understand what they are going through.

This book made me think. I've met so many children over the years and Goodfellow's writing brought some of them to mind, years after they have left the classroom. The clear images created by this style of writing can only help inspire young minds to not only have a go with their own writing but also in life. A great book to teach from and support individuals in a secondary classroom.

128 pages / Reviewed by Sam, teacher

Suggested Reading Age 11+

Matt Goodfellow's new poetry collection, Tomorrow We Begin, displays the same deep understanding and love of schools, their students and staff as his verse novel The Final Year did, with standalone poems covering uncomfortable blazers, so-called 'motivational' speeches in Year 9 assemblies, being 'stone cold in love at sixteen' and everything in between.  

All the poems ring with a deep truth, making this a book that can be embraced by all ages - anyone who has attended a UK school will find something to relate to here. For young people, the bittersweet grouping together of 'the kids whose names weren't mentioned on the friendship-group transitions forms' in the poem 'I Knew It' will sting, and for adults 'This Time' will bring a lump to your throat, as it perfectly balances the hurt of a teacher who has been mocked one too many times with the student who has been wrongly accused of doing the mocking.  Another favourite is 'Bein dragged to yer mum and dad's mates' for a BBQ', the title alone conjuring the awkward conversations between well-meaning adults and awkward teenagers that we've all lived through.

Matt Goodfellow has an uncanny knack for distilling the joy, monotony, uncertainty, trauma and hilarity of school life onto the page, leading to a collection that is truly universal. This book will work wonderfully as a class or private read for all ages of secondary school students and the adults who care for them.  Personally, I can't wait to use it.

128 pages / Reviewed by Alice, school librarian

Suggested Reading Age 11+