Classic Poems to Read Aloud

By James Berry and James Mayhew

Book Overview

Classic Poems to Read Aloud by James Berry; illustrations by James Mayhew is an all-inclusive thematic anthology of over 150 poems brings together a marvelous array of writings, from Shakespeare and Tennyson to modern poets such as Robert Frost and Ted Hughes to the works of Caribbean, African, and Native American poets. A delightful way for children and adults to spend time together.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0753456885
• ISBN13: 9780753456880
• Release Date: October 2003
• Publisher: Kingfisher
• Length: 256 Pages
• Weight: 0.65 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.7" x 5.1" x 7.7"
• Age Range: 7 to 10 years
• Grade Range: Grades 2 to 5

Customer Reviews

Lots of New Information

I bought this for my grandchildren. They are home schooled and my daughter-in-law exposes them to poetry of all genres. I was a little surprised that I didn't recognize any of theses, even though that's why I bought the book. They range in length from a few lines to pages of poetry. I might have purchased a book with more familiar poems had I been able to look through it first. The book was appreciated, but I don't know how often they use it.

good favorites poem book

I use this book in the classroom. It has a lot of the old forgotten favorites and I am all to happy to introduce a new generation of children to these poems.

Most Amazing Collection of Poetry....ever!

I have given this book as a gift perhaps eight times now. It is without a doubt the most amazing collection of poetry...old and new, joyful and sad, silly and profound...that I have ever seen collected under one cover. I've taught English for 30 years and it still remains my favorite. It may appear to somehow be poems for children, but it is poetry for our entire lives. I love this book....

For More than Just Young Children

We bought this in the children's section of our local bookstore, but the poetry in the book is aimed at a much broader audience. That's a plus for us -- it means I can read "Adventures of Isabel" and "It's Dark in Here" to the children and follow it up with "The Beautiful" and "A Prayer in Spring." The selections range from Silverstein to Blake to Frost to Wordsworth. All in all, they are well selected, both for their subject matter and their musicality. It's quickly becoming a family favorite.

A Great Anthology for All Ages

This is a great selection of poems. James Berry is a poet and has a poet's ear for language. "To Be Read Aloud" is the key to the title. Open the book. Pick a poem and speak the words into the air. Read them to someone you love, young or old. Treat yourself to a poetry reading, by you, for you. This is not lightweight poetry; Yeats and Eliot are not your usual "Children's Poetry". There are classics that children love, such as "The Owl and the Pussycat," but it's not the second-rate poetry that is often pawned off on children who don't know better. If you would like your children to "know better" poetry, this anthology is full of first-rate examples.