Small poems are fabulous fun

So I thought I would write this one

It will not be too long I think

Cos my pen has run out of

Only Neal Zetter could create a collection of short poems that includes 'The Loooooooooongest Poem in the Universe'. His new volume makes a great introduction to the fun, enjoyment and new understandings that poetry can bring. All are short, direct and entertaining. Whether reading with a single child or a group, they arouse immediate interest and are perfect for reading aloud. Year 6 children in a London primary school followed the production from draft to publication: here are some of the things they said about it. "A book where you go up and down and swirl around", "Neal's poems challenge me, but I enjoy figuring out the jokes", "His poems inspire me and make me want to ROAR with joy".

"Neal Zetter's short, snappy poems play with words, jokes and everyday moments, all paired with Will Hughes' lively illustrations. The accessible collection is fun and highly readable, and includes interactive prompts that invite children to join in. It makes poetry feel friendly rather than formal, allowing 7+ year olds to dip in and enjoy big ideas told in thought-provoking, discussion-worthy bursts. It's perfect for KS2 teachers who want to model and explore poetry with mixed-ability groups."

"Each poem is a burst of energy, sharing a passion for poetry and word play which is sure to appeal to a wide audience and encourage readers to create their own poetic works...Covering a wide range of topics and using a variety of styles, there is something for everyone here!

Many of these poems lend themselves to performing in imaginative and creative ways as groups, individuals or as whole classes. Humour is used to great effect, encouraging readers to experiment with wit and word play to create poems of their own."

"There are a lot of jokes, much word play, and some thought-provoking poems too. These poems have been written to be specifically appealing to readers who find longer poems daunting, and who may have English as a second language. The brevity, along with the energetic black-and-white illustrations, mean that overall, this book feels accessible and fun. It would be ideal to dip in and out of, and to share in the classroom."

Neal Zetter is a children's poet in great demand for performances and workshops. His interactive, rhythmic verses work wonders in developing literacy, confidence, creativity and communication. He is author of The Universal Zoo and The Shape of Rainbows, also published by Otter-Barry Books. Neal lives in London.

Will Hughes is an illustrator and author of children's books. His strongly graphic, comic images perfectly complement Neal's poems.