32 Best Poetry Books For Kids
Poetry has a unique way of capturing the hearts and minds of children, igniting their imagination, and encouraging a love for language.
From whimsical verses to heartfelt emotions, poetry books for kids provide a gateway to a world of creativity and expression.
In this blog, we’ll explore some of the best poetry books for kids that promise to inspire, entertain, and leave a lasting impression.
Best Poetry Books For Kids
“Where the Sidewalk Ends” by Shel Silverstein
This classic collection is full of humor and whimsy, capturing the imaginations of children and adults alike.
Shel Silverstein’s unique style blends playfulness with thought-provoking themes, making it a beloved staple in children’s literature.
The poems are accompanied by Silverstein’s own quirky illustrations, adding an extra layer of charm to each page.
“A Light in the Attic” by Shel Silverstein
Another delightful collection from Shel Silverstein, this book continues to enchant readers with its imaginative and playful verse.
Silverstein’s signature blend of humor and poignancy shines throughout the book, making it a favorite for both reading aloud and quiet enjoyment.
The illustrations, also by Silverstein, complement the text wonderfully, enhancing the whimsical experience.
“Falling Up” by Shel Silverstein
This collection features more fun and imaginative poems from Shel Silverstein.
Known for his clever wordplay and unexpected twists, Silverstein explores a range of topics that resonate with children, from everyday events to fanciful scenarios.
The book is peppered with his distinctive line drawings, which add to the overall enjoyment and appeal of the collection.
“The New Kid on the Block” by Jack Prelutsky
Jack Prelutsky’s book is filled with playful and engaging poems that capture the essence of childhood experiences and fantasies.
The poems range from humorous anecdotes to whimsical tales, all written in a rhythmical and easy-to-read style that is perfect for young readers. Prelutsky’s ability to connect with children’s interests and emotions makes this collection a hit.
“Something Big Has Been Here” by Jack Prelutsky
In this collection, Jack Prelutsky delivers more humorous and imaginative poems. His unique sense of humor and love for storytelling come through in each poem, making them both entertaining and memorable.
The poems cover a variety of themes and subjects, all presented with Prelutsky’s characteristic wit and playfulness.
“A Pizza the Size of the Sun” by Jack Prelutsky
Jack Prelutsky offers a collection of funny and whimsical poems in this engaging book.
Known for his humorous and imaginative writing, Prelutsky’s poems are filled with amusing scenarios and playful language that are sure to delight young readers.
The book’s creative and sometimes absurd themes are a testament to Prelutsky’s talent for making poetry fun and accessible.
“The 20th-Century Children’s Poetry Treasury” edited by Jack Prelutsky
This wonderful compilation features a diverse range of children’s poems from various poets throughout the 20th century.
Edited by Jack Prelutsky, the anthology includes both well-known classics and lesser-known gems, providing a rich overview of children’s poetry over the years.
The collection is an excellent introduction to the breadth and depth of poetry for young readers.
“Read-Aloud Rhymes for the Very Young” edited by Jack Prelutsky
This collection, perfect for younger children, is edited by renowned children’s poet Jack Prelutsky. It features a selection of short, rhythmic poems that are ideal for reading aloud.
The poems are playful, engaging, and often humorous, making them perfect for capturing the attention and imagination of young listeners. The book serves as a great introduction to the world of poetry for toddlers and preschoolers.
“Honey, I Love” by Eloise Greenfield
This charming collection consists of 16 poems that beautifully capture the essence of childhood experiences and emotions. Eloise Greenfield’s poetry is known for its rhythmic, lyrical quality that resonates with young readers.
The poems explore themes of love, family, and everyday joys, making them relatable and heartwarming.
The simplicity and eloquence of Greenfield’s language make this collection a delightful read for children.
“Goodnight Moon” by Margaret Wise Brown
“Goodnight Moon” is a classic bedtime poetry book that has lulled generations of children to sleep. Its rhythmic, gentle words and calming illustrations create a peaceful bedtime atmosphere.
The book’s simple and repetitive language is perfect for young children, making it an enduring favorite for nighttime reading. Its quiet poetry is as much a lullaby as it is a story.
“Brown Girl Dreaming” by Jacqueline Woodson
This memoir in verse tells the poignant story of a young girl growing up in the 1960s and 1970s.
Jacqueline Woodson’s eloquent and evocative poetry captures her journey through childhood and adolescence, exploring themes of family, identity, and belonging.
“Brown Girl Dreaming” is a powerful and inspiring book that speaks to readers of all ages, offering a deeply personal yet universal perspective on growing up.
“Out of Wonder: Poems Celebrating Poets” by Kwame Alexander
Kwame Alexander’s “Out of Wonder” is a unique collection of poems celebrating various poets and their distinctive styles.
The poems pay homage to great poets by adopting their techniques, themes, and stylistic elements, offering a wonderful introduction to the world of poetry.
This book not only celebrates the legacy of famous poets but also inspires young readers to explore and appreciate the art of poetry.
“The Crossover” by Kwame Alexander
“The Crossover” is a novel in verse that masterfully blends themes of basketball, family, and coming of age.
Kwame Alexander’s dynamic poetry captures the rhythm and excitement of a basketball game while also delving into deeper emotional territory.
The novel’s energetic and expressive language resonates with young readers, particularly those with an interest in sports and family dynamics.
“Mirror Mirror: A Book of Reversible Verse” by Marilyn Singer
Marilyn Singer’s “Mirror Mirror” features a collection of poems that can be read both forwards and backwards, offering a unique and clever twist on traditional verse.
Each poem presents two different perspectives when read in reverse, demonstrating the versatility and playfulness of language.
This innovative approach not only delights readers but also encourages them to think about poetry in new and creative ways.
“Joyful Noise: Poems for Two Voices” by Paul Fleischman
“Joyful Noise” is a collection of poems designed to be read aloud by two people. Paul Fleischman’s engaging and rhythmical verse celebrates the natural world, specifically focusing on the lives of insects.
This format of two voices creates a dynamic reading experience and a lively performance that is both fun and educational. The interplay between the two voices adds an extra layer of enjoyment to the poems.
“I Am Phoenix: Poems for Two Voices” by Paul Fleischman
In this collection, Paul Fleischman continues the innovative format of two-person poetry, this time focusing on the theme of birds.
“I Am Phoenix” offers a series of beautifully crafted poems that capture the essence, movement, and spirit of various birds.
The poems are meant to be read aloud by two voices, creating a harmonious and lyrical experience that mirrors the beauty of birdsong and the elegance of flight.
“All the Small Poems and Fourteen More” by Valerie Worth
This collection by Valerie Worth features short poems that capture the essence and wonder of everyday objects and moments.
With a keen eye for detail, Worth transforms ordinary experiences into something magical and noteworthy.
Her concise and evocative language makes these poems easily accessible to children, encouraging them to see the beauty in the mundane.
“National Geographic Book of Animal Poetry” edited by J. Patrick Lewis
This book combines the beauty of poetry with stunning animal photography.
Edited by J. Patrick Lewis, it features poems about animals that range from the playful to the majestic.
The vivid imagery of the poems, coupled with captivating photographs from National Geographic, creates a rich and engaging experience for young readers, inspiring a deeper appreciation for the animal kingdom.
“One Last Word: Wisdom from the Harlem Renaissance” by Nikki Grimes
Nikki Grimes’ “One Last Word” is an innovative blend of her own poetry with the works of Harlem Renaissance poets.
This collection weaves together the voices of the past with contemporary perspectives, creating a powerful dialogue across generations.
Grimes’ thoughtful and resonant verses provide a modern reflection on the themes and issues explored by Harlem Renaissance poets, making this book a poignant and educational read.
“The Poet’s Dog” by Patricia MacLachlan
In this novel told in verse, Patricia MacLachlan tells the heartwarming story of a dog who saves two children during a snowstorm.
The narrative unfolds through the dog’s perspective, offering a unique and touching viewpoint.
The poetic form adds depth and emotion to the story, making it a compelling read for children who love animals and heartfelt tales.
“Poetry for Young People: Maya Angelou” edited by Dr. Edwin Graves Wilson
This collection brings together some of Maya Angelou’s most inspiring poems, adapted for young readers.
Edited by Dr. Edwin Graves Wilson, the book introduces children to Angelou’s powerful voice and her themes of resilience, courage, and the human experience.
The selection is designed to be accessible and engaging for young audiences, serving as an excellent introduction to one of the most influential poets of our time.
“Poetry for Young People: Langston Hughes” edited by David Roessel
Edited by David Roessel, this book offers a selection of Langston Hughes’ most beloved poems, tailored for younger readers.
Hughes’ work captures the essence of the African American experience and his poetry is celebrated for its beauty, simplicity, and depth.
This collection presents his themes of hope, dreams, and the universal human spirit in a way that is accessible and inspiring for children.
“Poetry for Young People: Robert Frost” edited by Gary D. Schmidt
This child-friendly introduction to the works of Robert Frost, edited by Gary D. Schmidt, brings the poet’s beloved verse to young readers.
The collection includes some of Frost’s most famous poems, chosen for their appeal to children’s sensibilities and their ability to capture the wonders of nature and everyday life.
The book is a great way for children to begin exploring the depth and beauty of poetry.
“Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats” by T.S. Eliot
T.S. Eliot’s classic collection of poems about cats is as whimsical and delightful as it is profound.
Each poem introduces a different cat character, from the mischievous to the mysterious, making it a favorite among cat lovers of all ages.
Eliot’s playful verses and imaginative language have made “Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats” a timeless treasure in children’s literature.
“Sing a Song of Popcorn: Every Child’s Book of Poems” selected by Beatrice Schenk de Regniers
This enchanting collection of poems for children is selected by Beatrice Schenk de Regniers and is celebrated for its delightful variety.
The book includes poems of all types, from silly to serious, each accompanied by illustrations from various artists.
These visuals add an extra dimension to the poems, making the book a visual treat as well as a literary one.
“The Dream Keeper and Other Poems” by Langston Hughes
Langston Hughes’ “The Dream Keeper and Other Poems” is a collection that introduces young readers to his poetic world.
The poems are selected for their appeal to a younger audience and touch on themes of hope, dreams, and the beauty of the African American experience.
Hughes’ lyrical and accessible style makes this collection a great way for children to explore important literary and cultural themes.
“The Random House Book of Poetry for Children” selected by Jack Prelutsky
Edited by renowned children’s poet Jack Prelutsky, this diverse collection of poems is a wonderful introduction to the world of poetry for kids.
It includes a wide range of poets and styles, ensuring that there’s something for every young reader to enjoy.
The book is designed to be both entertaining and educational, making it a valuable resource for sparking a love of poetry.
“Talking Like the Rain: A Read-To-Me Book of Poems” selected by X.J. Kennedy and Dorothy M. Kennedy
Selected by X.J. Kennedy and Dorothy M. Kennedy, this collection features a range of beautifully illustrated read-aloud poems.
The poems are chosen for their rhythmic and melodic qualities, making them perfect for reading out loud. The illustrations complement the text, creating a captivating experience for both the reader and the listener.
“A Family of Poems: My Favorite Poetry for Children” by Caroline Kennedy
Caroline Kennedy’s personal collection of her favorite poems for children includes a mix of classic and contemporary works.
The anthology is curated to appeal to young readers and to foster a love for poetry. The selection ranges from playful to profound, offering a comprehensive introduction to the beauty and diversity of poetry.
“Here’s A Little Poem: A Very First Book of Poetry” edited by Jane Yolen and Andrew Fusek Peters
Edited by Jane Yolen and Andrew Fusek Peters, this delightful anthology is perfect for the very young.
The collection features a wide range of short, engaging poems that are ideal for introducing toddlers and preschoolers to the joys of poetry. The book is beautifully illustrated, adding to the appeal for young children.
“Forget-Me-Nots: Poems to Learn by Heart” edited by Mary Ann Hoberman
This collection, edited by Mary Ann Hoberman, is full of poems that are perfect for memorization.
It includes a diverse selection of poetry that is both enjoyable and educational, encouraging children to engage with the text in a deeper way.
The book is a great resource for parents and teachers looking to introduce the practice of memorizing poetry to children.
“A Child’s Garden of Verses” by Robert Louis Stevenson
Robert Louis Stevenson’s “A Child’s Garden of Verses” is a timeless collection of children’s poetry.
The poems capture the wonders and curiosities of childhood, from playful adventures to moments of contemplation.
Stevenson’s lyrical language and vivid imagery create a captivating world for young readers, making this collection a cherished classic in children’s literature.
