Classic Poetry

"Walker Illustrated Classics" is a new series which brings together some of the best-loved stories ever told, illustrated by some of today's finest artists. These exquisitely designed books, with their magnificent words and glorious pictures, are a pleasure to read - and re-read. The classics have never looked so good!This title includes over eighty of the most memorable poems written in the English language, from William Blake's "The Tyger" to Lewis Carroll's "Jabberwocky". Selected by Children's Laureate Michael Rosen and accompanied by his lively biographical sketches and notes and Paul Howard's astonishingly varied illustrations, this is indeed a classic collection.

In so many classic poetry selections, you'll find old favorites, but no information on the creators themselves. In Michael Rosen's hearty, well-designed, 160-page anthology--with strikingly diverse illustrations by the talented and chameleonic artist Paul Howard--readers will find a portrait and short biography of each poet accompanying his or her work. Not only that but the selections are arranged chronologically, from the 17th century to the modern day. William Shakespeare's "All the World's a Stage" from As You Like It begins the classic collection, then readers are introduced to William Blake, Elizabeth Barrett Browning, Edward Lear, Emily Dickinson, Lewis Carroll, Langston Hughes, and many, many more. Poet, storyteller, broadcaster, and children's book author Rosen says of his treasury, "There are so many ways to enjoy poems. This book is a way of offering new insights into poems, poets, and the relationships between them. It also offers a springboard to children and adults wanting to find out more and explore the world of poetry." And illustrator Howard should take a bow for his successful efforts to explore different techniques and artwork styles that complement the moods and historical context of each poem so perfectly. We welcome the chance to revisit Lear's "The Jumblies," Longfellow's "Paul Revere's Ride," and other well-loved poems in such a beautiful package. (Ages 9 and older)