A Poem for Every Question

‘A Poem for Every Question’ is a thought-provoking collection of poems which answer a myriad of intriguing questions accompanied by bright, energetic illustrations.

The poems are lively and engaging as well as informative, using word play and imagery as they answer questions such as ‘Why do some animals have pouches?’, ‘Why do clouds float'?’, ‘Why do people hug?’ and ‘What is the world’s oldest instrument?’. Additional information is given under each poem, offering further explanation and facts about the topic, adding a non-fiction element to the book. Speech bubbles in some illustrations suggest other pages, encouraging readers to make links between related poems.

Humour is used both in the poems and pictures to make the work appealing and accessible and children may well be inspired to pose their own questions and write a poem in response- or perhaps challenge someone else to do so! For teachers, the collection is perfect for enriching the curriculum, asking children to consider and discuss the question, before sharing the poem and the explanation. Or the question could be a lesson starter with children working scientifically to answer it, the poem then being shared at the end of the session. ‘What is a primary colour?’ could be linked to an art lesson whereas ‘Could a woman be a gladiator?’ linked to a history lesson about ancient Rome or ‘How did the ancient Egyptians make a Mummy?’ one on Egypt, spreading the joy of poetry across the curriculum!

There are so many poems here which I could mention, but my advice is to get a copy and enjoy them all yourself!

A Poem for Every Question

Brian Bilston, illustrated by Joe Berger

Red Shed ISBN: 978-0008682804