I Am a Poetato

Back by popular demand, a new edition of the much-loved poetry collection from ‘Comedy’s Poet Laureate’

Funny, witty, zany and thoughtful, this brilliant A-Z of animal poems will be loved by readers of all ages, including grown-ups.

Ants, (wise) camels, dogs, deckchairs, glasses, guillemots and Toby the Armadillo are all here, as well as the unusual unicorn in school. Presented in a unique scrapbook style, with the author’s own drawings, this is a hilarious and exciting poetry book – even for those who think they don’t like poetry!

“"45 poems offering light, sometimes wildly offbeat perspectives on a variety of topics. . . . In many instances, Hegley's often scribbly, black-and-white illustrations (Rawlinson has provided the letters) reinforce his quirky sense of humor, such as in "Micycle," which features a sketch of a bike with a mouse for a seat offering its ears as handle bars, or "Xylofox," a most unusual creature that "eats its words off armour plates" and whose rough, foxy frame consists mostly of a xylophone and fluffy tail." -- Kirkus Reviews 'Poems for everyone, for readers of any age to enjoy - Guardian 'Laugh-out-loud funny, yet thought-provoking' - The Bookseller 'John Hegley is a delight' - Chortle 'The poems have a physicality and depth of interest that will keep readers returning to them time and time again' - BookTrust”

"… these are poems for everyone and contain a lot for readers of all ages to enjoy" The  Book Bag

"brilliant … an animal for every letter of the alphabet" Poetryzone

"One of ACHUKA’s favourite poets. One of our favourite collections, now available in a new edition. Presented in a unique scrapbook style, with the author’s own drawings, this is a hilarious and exciting poetry book – even for those who think they don’t like poetry."

"John Hegley’s observation, alertness and diligent word play are evident throughout this collection of poetry... What’s more there are sketches within the book that add to the delight. The shape and size and presentation of this book make it a treat. However the real treasure is the poems. Bookwagon loves and recommends I Am a Poetato."

“Engaging typography, quirky backgrounds and a scrapbook feel make this a great book for children to sit and read in book clubs or dip into. Teachers will love the sheer variety of the poems which make this an ideal source for modelling poetry or developing animal-themed literacy unit.”

"John Hegley has produced a collection of surreal, comical poetry which is reminiscent of the nonsensical, playful styles of poets such as Spike Milligan or Edward Lear... There are various forms and poetic structures, such as acrostics and shape poems. Each is combined with illustrations and typography to make the whole book a very engaging and visual experience...

This is a collection that delights in word play and is humorous, but occasionally invites deeper contemplation... and demands to be read aloud."

John Hegley, poet, editor, comedian, musician, songwriter and much more, has been a strong presence on the performance poetry and standup comedy scene for many years. But it has long been recognised that a serious basis to their comedy and quirkiness gives his poems real staying power and has helped to build up a large band of appreciative fans. He was born in London but moved early to Luton. A frequent performer at festivals and poetry events, he also does many readings and holds workshops in schools, especially in more culturally-deprived areas. He lives in London.

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