The Cambridge Book of Poetry for Children

Introduction

“The Cambridge Book of Poetry for Children” is an anthology of poetry compiled by Kenneth Grahame, a British writer most famous for his novel “The Wind in the Willows.” This book was first published in 1916 and contains a wide variety of poems by well-known poets such as William Shakespeare, Robert Burns, and William Wordsworth, as well as lesser-known poets of the time. The collection is aim at children and young adults, and the poems cover a range of themes including nature, animals, and childhood.

Poems Selection

One of the strengths of this anthology is the range and variety of poems included. There are humorous poems such as “The Walrus and the Carpenter” by Lewis Carroll and “The Spider and the Fly” by Mary Howitt, which are sure to entertain young readers. There are also more serious and contemplative poems like “Ode to the West Wind” by Percy Bysshe Shelley and “The Solitary Reaper” by William Wordsworth. These provide an opportunity for children to engage with more complex themes and ideas.

Furthermore, the anthology is arrange thematically, with poems grouped under headings such as “Childhood,” “Nature,” and “Animals.” This helps to give the collection a sense of coherence and structure, and also makes it easier for readers to find and explore poems that interest them.

Writing Style

The writing style of the poems varies greatly, as one would expect from an anthology of this kind. There are sonnets, ballads, and free verse poems. The language ranges from simple and accessible to more complex and challenging. The poems are written in a variety of voices and styles. This diversity helps to keep the collection engaging and interesting.

While some of the poems may be challenging for younger readers. The editor has included footnotes and explanatory notes to help explain unfamiliar words and concepts. This is a thoughtful touch that makes the collection more accessible and enjoyable for readers of all ages.

Artwork

The illustrations in the book are by a range of artists, including Arthur Rackham and Randolph Caldecott. They are beautifully draw and add an extra dimension to the collection. The illustrations are not simply decorative. But are integrate into the design of the book and help to create a sense of visual coherence. The use of different styles of illustration also helps to keep the book visually interesting.

Conclusion

“The Cambridge Book of Poetry for Children” is a wonderful anthology of poetry. That is sure to delight and engage young readers. The range and variety of poems included make it a rich and rewarding reading experience. The thematic organization and informative footnotes help to make the collection accessible to readers of all ages. The illustrations are also a delight and add an extra layer of beauty to the book. This is a timeless collection that deserves a place on every child’s bookshelf.

Pros

• Wide variety of poems
• Thematic organization
• Informative footnotes and explanatory notes
• Beautiful illustrations
• Suitable for readers of all ages

Cons

• Some of the poems may be challenging for younger readers

Recommendation

I would highly recommend “The Cambridge Book of Poetry for Children” to parents, teachers, and anyone who enjoys poetry. It is a wonderful collection that offers something for everyone. It is sure to inspire a love of poetry in young readers. The book’s enduring popularity is a testament to its quality and appeal. It is a must-have for any children’s library.