Pause for poetry: Follow that Word

Having been asked to update the FCBG book lists, poetry has been very much in my mind as this is where I decided to start. A great poetry lover, my collection of poetry books runs into the hundreds, going right back to my childhood.

I have always shouted about the importance of poetry in school and recently, there seems to have been a renewed interest in this much neglected area amongst teachers so I have decided to have a ‘pause for poetry’ every Wednesday, looking at some of my favourites past and present!

‘Follow that Word’ is a new collection from poetry master, John Agard, winner of the BookTrust Lifetime Achievement Award 2021, illustrated by Momoko Abe (whose picture book ‘When the Sun Goes Home’ is an absolute joy!). It is a masterclass in word play interwoven with myths, legends, history and wisdom. Packed with over sixty poems, there is much to ponder, amuse, delight and think about in these pages.

The collection includes a number of calypso poems. A type of folk song which often incorporates Spanish, Creole, and African phrases, calypso is originally from Trinidad but is also sung elsewhere in the Caribbean and these poems use the rhythms and energy of this musical tradition. ‘Two To Catch On’ is a joyful celebration of diversity and begs to be performed!

It’s been around from Creation dawn

and it only takes two to catch on.

Try it, people, and you will see

this is the dance that can set you free.

Other poems are concerned with figures from history or mythology. ‘Coffin’, for example, introduces the reader to Matthew Coffin, the carpenter who invented the wooden coffin whilst ‘Jumbo’ reflects the experience of Jumbo the first African elephant to arrive at London Zoo. All or any of these poems could be used with a class to enliven various areas of the curriculum, as starting points for discussion or reflection or simply for the joy of sharing their word play.

Often including lines from the poems, Momoko Abe’s illustrations add much to the collection. Lady Mosquito and her babies chase across one page whilst Greek vase inspired friezes border others.

There is so much to treasure and enjoy in this collection! A must for teachers.

Follow that Word John Agard, illustrated by Momoko Abe

Hodder ISBN: 978-1444964974

A few John Agard poetry books from my shelves.