10 Best Poetry Books for Kids in 2022 (Shel Silverstein, Dr. Seuss, and More)
Are you looking to expand your child’s knowledge of literary genres? Does your child love to immerse themselves in new literary worlds? Or maybe you’re simply looking for something new to relieve the boredom blues that often plague the summer months. While poetry can often seem intimidating, your child doesn’t have to read Shakespeare to experience the beauty and splendor of the poetic world.
We’ve assembled a diverse list of the best poetic material available for introducing children of all ages to poetry concepts and themes. Coming in at number one is the imaginative and unique collection Where the Sidewalk Ends, from world-renown children’s poet Shel Silverstein. We hope the information and options provided in this guide will help you in your search for the perfect addition to your child's library!
Quick List - Top Poetry Books For Kids
J. Patrick Lewis (compiler)
A Beautiful Mix of Poetry and Photography
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Table of Contents
- Why You Can Trust Us
- Why Should Children Read Poetry?
- 10 Best Poetry Books For Kids Ranking
- No. 1Shel Silverstein | Where the Sidewalk Ends
- No. 2Dr. Seuss | Dr. Seuss's Beginner Book Collection
- No. 3J. Patrick Lewis (compiler) | National Geographic Book of Animal Poetry
- No. 4Fred Rogers | A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood
- No. 5Betsy Snyder | Haiku Baby
- 5 more products
- Consider Important Information About Choosing Learning Materials
- Want More Ways to Promote Your Child's Creativity?
Why You Can Trust Us
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Why Should Children Read Poetry?
Exposing children to poetry can offer a limitless list of benefits, while offering readers the opportunity to explore the power of words in a fun and engaging way. Listed here are some of the most notable benefits of introducing children to poetic concepts and themes.
Poetry Supports Language Development and Expands Vocabulary
Exposing young children to poetry can help support their language development, while also allowing them to experiment with language acquisition. Many poems use vocabulary children may not experience in other forms of literature, providing them with valuable tools to help them build upon their existing vocabulary.
Expose Your Child to Early Mathematical Concepts
Poetry can be an engaging way to expose young children to early mathematics concepts, such as pattern recognition and sequencing. Children are more likely to absorb new concepts and ideas when they are provided with developmentally stimulating learning materials that keep them engaged in presented themes and concepts.
It Promotes Emotional Awareness and Expression
The primary purpose of poetry is to provoke an emotional response from the reader. In experiencing examples of emotional expression through poetry, children are provided with the opportunity to explore and express their own emotions.
How to Choose Poetry Books For Kids
The world of online shopping can leave you feeling overwhelmed and bombarded with options. As you begin your search, consider the information provided in this guide to help point you in the right direction!
Explore Popular Types of Children’s Poetry
While there are over 50 recognized types of poetry, many poetry forms feature literary concepts that are not developmentally appropriate for children.
Children’s literature primarily features works of poetry with a more simplistic form and structure, making them easily accessible to younger audiences. Listed below are a few of the most popular types of poetry used in children’s literature.
Keep it Classic With Nursery Rhymes
A nursery rhyme is a very old poem or song, typically short in length and intended specifically for children. Nearly every person can name at least one nursery rhyme from their childhood, and many can even recite their favorite from memory.
Encouraging young children to recite nursery rhymes can be an engaging way to introduce poetry themes and concepts, while also improving language and memory skills.
Incorporate Culture With Haiku
Haiku is a traditional form of Japanese poetry, and the English version consists of three lines and 17 syllables. With its compact structure, haiku is one of the simplest forms of poetry, making it easily accessible to children (and adults) of all ages.
Haiku can be particularly beneficial for introducing young or struggling readers to poetry concepts, with its simple rhythmic flow and minimal use of vocabulary.
Explore Creative Expression With Free Verse
Free verse is the rebel of the poetry world, employing many traditional elements of poetry while simultaneously disregarding the rules. Many older children, especially those who tend to be creatively expressive, may be more likely to gravitate toward this form of poetry.
Free verse may also be ideal for introducing poetry to children who may have difficulty connecting with traditional poetic material.
Familiarize Yourself With Popular Children’s Poets
Children’s literature offers a long list of famous poets whose material is intended specifically for children, but here are a couple of notable children’s poets who have left an indelible mark on history.
Spark Your Imagination With Shel Silverstein
Selling over 20 million copies worldwide, Shel Silverstein’s poetry is known and beloved by children and adults all over the world. His combination of humorous irreverence and doodled illustrations spark the imagination of people of all ages.
Due to their immense popularity, Silverstein’s books have been translated into over 30 different languages, making his poetry a great resource for introducing children to new languages and for children who live in bilingual households.
Immerse Yourself in the World of Dr. Seuss
While many of his works are not technically considered poetry, Dr. Seuss’s writing utilizes a variety of common poetic devices, like his notoriously unique rhyme schemes and frequent use of alliterations.
Seuss intentionally designed his stories to be easily accessible to young children, presenting simplistic vocabulary specifically intended for children learning to read. His books can be a valuable resource for introducing early and struggling readers to poetry concepts in an engaging way.
Introduce Your Child to the Classics
Introducing your child to the works of classical poets allows them to delve into the past while exploring poetry concepts and themes. While there is a long list of popular classical poets to explore, listed below are a couple of the most notable in literary history.
Experience the Genius of Robert Frost
One of the most prolific American poets of all time, four-time Pulitzer Prize winner Robert Frost is renowned as one of the foremost literary geniuses of our time. His thoughtful use of descriptive language is intended to stoke the reader’s imagination and awaken the senses.
Though Frost did not specifically intend his poetry for children, his works feature an informal speech style that makes them accessible to younger audiences. The unique combination of realism and ambiguity in his writing provides children with the opportunity to tangibly connect with poetry, while also encouraging individual interpretation of the content.
Pay Homage to the Queen of Poetry
Underrated in her own time, Emily Dickinson is now revered as one of the most popular poets in recent history. An eccentric woman of mystery, Dickinson used an unorthodox poetic structure and style to convey deep philosophical concepts.
Dickinson was known for tackling big concepts with as few words as possible. Much of her work features a simplistic view of a big idea, making it more accessible to a younger audience than many other forms of poetry.
That, combined with her non-traditional use of capitalization and punctuation, encourages children to experiment with the conventional rules of language.
10 Best Poetry Books For Kids Ranking
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Shel Silverstein Where the Sidewalk Ends | | Imaginative Poetry for the Whole Family | |
2 | Dr. Seuss Dr. Seuss's Beginner Book Collection | | A Colorful Childhood Classic | |
3 | J. Patrick Lewis (compiler) National Geographic Book of Animal Poetry | | A Beautiful Mix of Poetry and Photography | |
4 | Fred Rogers A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood | | The Poetic Wisdom of Mr. Rogers | |
5 | Betsy Snyder Haiku Baby | | Nature-Inspired Poetry for Toddlers | |
6 | Paul Fleischman Joyful Noise | | A Poetic Journey Through the Insect World | |
7 | Editors of Phoenix International Publications Mother Goose Deluxe Board Book Set | | A Childhood Staple Made for Tiny Hands | |
8 | Nikki Giovanni Hip Hop Speaks to Children | | A Cultural Journey Through Music and Poetry | |
9 | Helen Ferris (compiler) Favorite Poems Old and New | | An Extensive Selection of Classic Poetry | |
10 | Jack Prelutsky The Random House Book of Poetry for Children | | A Diverse Collection Intended for Children |
Imaginative Poetry for the Whole Family
This bookshelf staple features imaginative poetry with both realistic and fantastical elements, offering a delightful mix of playful and profound. This wonderfully unique world could only come from the brilliant mind of world-renowned poet Shel Silverstein. This timeless treasure will have everyone saying “Ickle me, pickle me, tickle me too”!
Some reviews note that the text on the digital version of this book is exceptionally small and difficult to read. Some select reviews also mention issues with the condition of the book they received.
Most reviews for this amazing collection are overwhelmingly positive. Parents rave about their nostalgic connection to this childhood classic, noting its timeless relevance and engaging material that encourages the reader’s imagination.
Reviewers agree this book is an ideal resource for introducing the whole family to poetry in a fun and engaging way!
A Colorful Childhood Classic
Embark on a colorful journey as you and your child immerse yourselves in the amazing world of Dr. Seuss! This collection is an excellent resource for introducing children of all ages to poetic concepts. Hop on top of Pop and convince Sam-I-Am to eat green eggs and ham, while exploring new concepts along the way.
Some reviews mention complaints about printing issues, such as upside-down pages and damaged binding. A few select reviewers also note that they found the text to be too small for some young children, especially early readers.
Others hail this classic collection as a “must-buy” for any child’s bookshelf, noting its nostalgic timelessness. Several parents note this collection's relevance not only to its intended age group but to children (and adults) of all ages. Many reviews also mentioned that this set is an ideal gift for birthdays and other holidays!
J. Patrick Lewis (compiler)National Geographic Book of Animal Poetry
A Beautiful Mix of Poetry and Photography
This unique book entices the eye while engaging the mind, offering a selection of both new and classic poetry focusing on the world of animals. This poetry collection features a unique combination of stunning photography and thoughtful verse to engage you and your child on a poetic expedition through the animal kingdom.
Some reviewers note that they found the content of the poems to be lacking in substance. Several reviews also complain about the condition of the book they received. One reviewer also notes that they found the mention of bullets to be inappropriate for their child.
A vast majority of reviewers are in agreement about the beauty of this book, noting the visually stunning photography that accompanies the insightful poetry. Parents of animal lovers say that they found this book ideal for engaging their children in poetry. Several reviewers also mention this book was particularly beneficial for educational use.
The Poetic Wisdom of Mr. Rogers
Say “Hello neighbor” as you depart on a musical journey through Mr. Rogers’ neighborhood. This book features a selection of timeless songs from the hit children’s television series cleverly presented as poetry.
Some reviews mention that they felt the illustrations were lacking, but others liked their simplistic style. A few select reviewers also note that many of the included songs did not transfer over as spoken poetry as smoothly as they would have liked.
Many reviewers deem this book a treasure, hailing it as much needed addition to any family’s bookshelf. Reviewers also love that the themes in this book promote healthy social and emotional development.
Parents mention that they love the book as much as their children do, noting the nostalgia the book induces for those who grew up with the show.
Nature-Inspired Poetry for Toddlers
If your little one loves to explore the natural world, then they'll love Haiku Baby! Featuring brightly colored illustrations that represent elements of nature and short concise language, this book is a valuable resource for introducing very young children to the world of poetry.
Several reviews involve complaints regarding the overall condition of the book they received. Buyers also note that though this is a board book, the material is significantly thinner than the material used for most board books.
Parents rave about this book’s vibrant illustrations and bouncy language that truly resonate with young children, keeping them engaged with the material.
Several reviews note that this book also works with many children younger and older than the intended age range. Reviewers also love the book’s included tabs that make it easy for little hands to turn the pages on their own.
A Poetic Journey Through the Insect World
From hatching grasshoppers to the serenade of a moth, this collection will transport you and your child to the wonderful world of insects. Designed for two voices, this book provides you the opportunity to bond with your child through the beauty of poetry.
This collaborative book promotes social interaction while encouraging children to explore poetry concepts and themes. Some reviewers had complaints regarding the book’s length, noting its limited amount of material compared to similar collections.
Reviewers found this book to be a great addition to their home library, noting its relatability to its intended age group. Parents praise this collection’s clever fusion of natural science and traditional poetry concepts, as well as its ability to engage children in the material.
Several parents of homeschooled children also note that this book proved particularly beneficial for educational use.
Editors of Phoenix International PublicationsMother Goose Deluxe Board Book Set
A Childhood Staple Made for Tiny Hands
From Humpty Dumpty and his great fall to Jack and Jill’s journey up the hill, every childhood should include these timeless stories. Introduce your infant or toddler to the beauty of poetry with this adorable set of classic rhymes made tiny, making them a perfect fit for little hands.
Several reviewers found it important to note that these books include only shortened versions of these classic nursery rhymes, which is not made clear in the product’s description. Some buyers mention that while the page material is quite thick, it doesn't withstand moisture and is unsuitable for teething infants.
Parents rave about the vibrant illustrations that accompany these classic nursery rhymes, noting their ability to capture the attention of even the smallest child. Several reviewers also mention that the books included with this set are very sturdy.
A Cultural Journey Through Music and Poetry
This bestselling book provides children with the opportunity to explore poetry concepts as they immerse themselves in the diverse world of hip hop. Experience the rhythmic wisdom of some of the most influential voices of the genre, from Tupac Shakur to Queen Latifah, with this powerful collection.
Several reviewers note that they did not receive the included CD with their purchase, making it difficult to fully enjoy the material as it was intended. Some parents say that they found this book to be more of a songbook than a poetry book. Select reviews also mention complaints about the book’s format and organization.
Most reviews offer raving compliments about this book's ability to capture the attention and imagination of children of all ages. Many reviewers praise this collection's versatility, noting its adaptability as an educational resource.
Parents also found it important to mention that the material presented in this book resonates with many children younger than the intended age range.
An Extensive Selection of Classic Poetry
This collection is the holy grail of poetic material, with over 700 works of classic poetry from some of history’s most influential literary geniuses. This book is the ultimate resource for parents looking to introduce their children to the wonderful world of poetry while honoring the voices of our literary past.
Several reviews mention issues such as misprinted pages and damaged binding. Many parents note that this book uses vocabulary they thought was too advanced for younger children. Some reviewers found their child couldn't relate to the poetic material presented in this collection, because of the content and lack of illustrations.
Many reviewers found this collection to be a great addition to their family’s bookshelf, noting its inherent relevance to members of the whole family.
Many reviews rave about the nostalgia this book induces for those who grew up with these poems. Parents love the versatility and diversity this collection offers, with its extensive assortment of material that covers an endless list of topics.
Jack PrelutskyThe Random House Book of Poetry for Children
A Diverse Collection Intended for Children
Compiled by bestselling children’s poet Jack Prelutsky, this collection offers an extensive collection of poetry intended specifically for children. With a mix of the poignant poetry of the distant past and the imaginative poetry of the present, this book is sure to suit any reader looking to explore poetic material and concepts.
Several reviewers found the illustrations to be lacking, noting the very basic pictures that accompany the writing. Some found that some of the poetry contained concepts and themes they found inappropriate or dated. Other reviews note issues with this book’s quality, like its fragile binding and brittle pages.
The majority of reviews hail this book as a “must buy” for any family’s bookshelf. Many reviewers praise this collection's versatility, noting its wide range of diverse content. Parents also mention that this book is ideal for educational use, making it particularly beneficial in homeschool environments.
Consider Important Information About Choosing Learning Materials
When searching for poetry to introduce new concepts and themes to your child, it's important to keep their individual experiences and preferences in mind. When learning materials contain content and themes they can relate and connect to, children are more likely to stay engaged in the learning process.
Engage Kids With Relatable and Thought-Provoking Material
Introducing poetic material that reflects your child’s everyday experiences at home and school can be a great way to engage children in new concepts. This can be particularly beneficial for children who are struggling with social interaction and relationships.
Poetry can be an effective way to introduce children to big concepts that may not have been as accessible to them in other forms of literature. Consider using poetry to introduce your child to complex concepts such as race, religion, and gender identity.
Whether we like it or not, children will always choose to listen to other children before considering that an adult may be right. Incorporating works of poetry that were written by children, for children can help your child relate to the material on a more personal level.
Ensure Content is Age-Appropriate
Some material written by classic poets is still considered age-appropriate for children, but parents should exercise caution when choosing classic poetry to introduce to children.
The standards of literary materials intended for children were very different during the time many classic poems were composed, so it’s important to carefully review materials to ensure that all themes and topics are age-appropriate for your child.
Want More Ways to Promote Your Child's Creativity?
There are countless ways to promote creative expression. Listed here are a few more resources that may spark your child's imagination!
Top 5 Poetry Books For Kids
No. 1: Shel Silverstein｜Where the Sidewalk Ends
No. 2: Dr. Seuss｜Dr. Seuss's Beginner Book Collection
No. 3: J. Patrick Lewis (compiler)｜National Geographic Book of Animal Poetry
No. 4: Fred Rogers｜A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood
No. 5: Betsy Snyder｜Haiku Baby
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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