On Poetry Street

In this collection, Brian Moses offers not only 52 poems (one for any week of the year), but oodles of inspiration and possibility. ‘On Poetry Street’ shows just how accessible and enjoyable creating poems can be and is sure to leave readers itching to get started.

This is a book for everyone, not just children. Each poem offers an idea or a model which can be enjoyed, perhaps performed, and then used as a starting point for creating new poems, whether using that framework or developing ideas of your own.

Notes at the end of the book from Brian Moses offer further information about the different styles of poems he has used, what triggered his ideas and says that ‘the two words, ‘What if?’ are the writer’s best friends.’ These pages are a real treasure trove of inspiration, a poet’s gift to other writers.

Many of the ideas here will spark not just poems, but discussion and debate as children share their ideas and explore possibilities. ‘If I Could Travel back in Time…’ is sure to raise questions about the events Brian Moses has chosen as well as encourage children to recall or investigate past incidents and consider why they might choose them for their poem. ‘A Mouthful of Words’ and ‘A Difficult Poem to Read Unless You’ve Swallowed a Dictionary’ both celebrate the joy of words, wordplay and dictionaries as well as encouraging curiosity.

The whole collection is peppered with Mark Elvins’ lively illustrations which add much to this enjoyable collection. This is an essential addition to any bookshelf, offering hours of pleasure and fun!

On Poetry Street

Brian Moses, illustrated by Mark Elvins

Scallywag Press     ISBN: 978-1915252586