‘Smile Out Loud’ by Joseph Coelho & Daniel Gray-Barnett

Another wonderful collection from Joseph Coelho. These 25 poems will not only make you smile, but they are also perfect for reading aloud, acting out and inspiring children to write their own poetry. 

Amongst my favourites were ‘Imagination Running Free’, ‘A Brush with Danger’ about a yeti brushing his hair, and the wonderfully soothing and meditative ‘Bedtime’.

It is also wonderfully illustrated by Daniel Gray-Barnett.

‘Let’s Chase Stars Together’ by Matt Goodfellow

A collection of powerfully emotive and beautifully written poems, ideal for older children.

Among my favourites were: ‘It’s Always the Same’ about a vulnerable child who lacks the protective armour that stability provides, the lyrical ‘When You Get Sad You Speak Like the Sea’, ‘Guess What’ about finding a friendship that seems like destiny, and ‘The Wolf’ – a metaphor for divorce.

These poems made me cry – highly recommended!