At this time of the year I increase the level of rummaging I do through my extensive library of old writer's notebooks. Summer days afford me this special time. Given that I have 4 decades worth of notebooks, there is much to explore and rediscover.  The imminent release of my latest book, 'Notebook Notions,' reminds me rummaging is a topic I address in the book. It is an action highly reccomended for discovering new possiblities in old words. It was in this wonderfully satisfying process of rediscovery that I chanced upon some poetry gold gifted to the world by fellow participants of Poetry Friday. I have others I can call upon another time.   These poems had nestled safely into the pages of various notebooks as sources of admiration and inspiration. I bring them into the light and say thank you for these wordly gifts. Wishing everyone a New Year full of hope, optimism and fullfilment. Be well and keep the words flowing... It is the first Poetry Friday of 2026 and ...

  This is a message for teachers. Teachers who teach poetry, Teachers who wish to teach poetry more effectively. Take a wander through your school's library and take a closer look at the poetry collection. Have a really good look at the assembled books. Take some books from the shelves and open them and examine the poetry within the covers. If what you are seeing is a  collection of dated, unattractive titles and there doesn't appear to have been any additional texts added to the collection in over a decade -or possibly longer, then it's time to morph into a  Poetry Warrior! Don't get me wrong, there may well be some great poetry hidden away within those tired looking covers. It would be sad not to bring some of that treasure to the attention of your probationary poets. However, it's time to begin agitating for more books to be added to the collection -and fast. Something contemporary. Something more relatable to the many worlds young readers inhabit. It becomes...