The Billy that Died with its Boots On (Stephen Whiteside, illus by Lauren Merrick, Walker Books)

From a young age, children are exposed to poetry in its many forms. Nursery rhymes bring delight, especially if there are actions to go with them. But does poetry become uncool as you grow up? Stephen Whiteside, an award-winning bush poet, performer and GP, has gallantly aimed this book of verse at the nine-plus age group. There is a variety of subjects in The Billy that Died with its Boots On, whether you’re into sport, the beach, Martians, dinosaurs or poking fun at your parents. Whiteside was brought up on the poems of Banjo Paterson and CJ Dennis, and their influence is obvious. As is mentioned in the introduction, these poems are meant to be read aloud for maximum enjoyment, and can be dipped in and out of when the mood takes you. Ones that took my fancy were ‘We Headed to the Beach Today’, ‘Mum’s Abandoned Coffee Cups’ and ‘Tidying My Room’. As someone who at about age nine knew All Right, Vegemite! and Far Out, Brussel Sprout! back to front, I know this is an age group that can enjoy some funny, offbeat Aussie poetry.

Katie Haydon is a former assistant editor of Books+Publishing and a freelance reviewer

Books+Publishing pre-publication reviews are supported by the Copyright Agency Cultural Fund.

Category: Reviews