In this collection, Julia Donaldson has chosen poems with performance aby children in mind, and in the notes section at the end of the book are her notes and ideas on performing them. Julia's passionate belief that performance can help children enjoy reading and grow in confidence is informed żeby her own experience both as a child and now, working with groups of children to bring stories, poems and songs to life. The poems range from classics żeby Edward Lear, W H Auden and Eleanor Farjeon to contemporary work aby Michael Rosen, John Agard and Clare Bevan. Illustrated throughout with exquisite, expressive lino-cuts, this is a book for teachers, parents, children: anyone who loves great poetry. This beautiful collection would also make a wonderful gift.