Collected Poems For Children

Charles Causley, illustrated by John Lawrence

Editions

Review

This is an exceptional book.  Causley, an accomplished poet for adults, has another rare skill: the ability to tap into the English nursery rhyme tradition without descending to parody or pastiche.  Literate children of all ages will enjoy this large book - there are more than 200 poems here - for the quirky tales it tells, its airy humour and, not least, because the author never patronises his readers.  At random, a sample first verse:

‘When George the Fifth was a Midshipman / (Before he wore the crown) / He bought himself an African Grey / Ashore in Port Said town. / “God Save the King!” said Charlotte.' - review by John Wyse Jackson (Seán)