Suggesting this zoo hold a meeting on zoom

Was not sensible, wise or astute

For the sloths all appear to have frozen onscreen

And I think that the swan’s stuck on mute.

Read about slugs, dogs and bats – or ghosts, grandads and lions in love; discover a feisty Rapunzel and how to deal with bullies. Find a class teacher who runs the marathon, the talented, kind kids in Yellow Group  - and learn the first rule of poetry – have fun!

This is a really exciting, varied collection from one of the UK’s most popular poets – a brilliant performer in schools and at festivals.

"A treat for poetry lovers, veering from serious silliness to heartfelt and tender rhymes. Tom Morgan-Jones' quirky, retro illustrations will appeal to children and adults alike. Dougherty's playful approach pokes fun at poetic conventions and creates a clever collection."

"This collection is a bestiary, with some clever, witty and thought-provoking poetry… Morgan-Jones’s
nimble illustrations are often delightful, putting wind in the sails of the verse...

Reluctant readers of poetry are likely to be engaged and entertained by this lively book."

"In Zooming the Zoo, you can learn the first rule of poetry: have fun! A really exciting, varied collection from one of the UK’s most popular poets and brilliant performer in schools and at festivals."

John Dougherty was born in Larne, Northern Ireland, and some of the poems in this collection reflect his childhood there. He became a primary teacher, but is now a full-time writer and performer, with over 40 books published. He is a favourite visitor to school and library workshops and has performed at book fairs and festivals from Swindon to Sydney. He lives in Stroud, Gloucestershire.

Tom Morgan-Jones also illustrated John's previous collection for Otter-Barry Books, Dinosaurs and Dinner Ladies. A professional illustrator, author, events artist and inky hand-letterist, he has illustrated over 75 books and series for children. He lives in Edinburgh.