Something Beginning With P
Edited by Seamus Cashman
Illustrated by Corrina Askin and Alan Clarke
Published by The O’Brien Press Ltd. 2004

Something Beginning with P published by the O’Brien Press in association with Poetry Ireland, is a collection of new poems for children from Ireland’s leading poets such as Brendan Kennelly. Gabriel Fitzmaurice, Rita Ann Higgins, Seamus Heaney and Cathal Ó Searcaigh.
Poets customarily associated with children’s verse such as Aislinn and Larry O’Loughlin, Pat Ingoldsby, Gabriel Fitzmaurice and Gabriel Rosenstock are featured also, providing a most unusual mix superbly enhanced by contemporary illustrations on every page. The resulting combination is a real work of art.

In total over 100 poets are brought together in this unique volume providing the ideal opportunity for parents, teachers and librarians to inspire a love of poetry among children and indeed to enjoy the diverse variety themselves as well.

Some very useful prose translation guides are provided at the back of the book for non-Irish speaking readers. There is also a biography of the illustrators, the book designer, and all the poets whose works feature in the collection. An index of first lines, an index of poems presented alphabetically by title and an index of poets and illustrators complete this captivating collection that is a treasure to keep and delve into time and time again.

Valerie Coughlan, reviews editor with Inis the Children’s Books Ireland magazine sums up the appeal and timeless value of this collection in the words;
‘Buy this book, but don’t just buy one copy; buy at least two: one to keep by you to dip in and out of and one to put away. It’s sure to be a collector’s item. And then better get another few in case anyone makes off with your other copies.’

Something Beginning With P is available from the children’s non-fiction collection of Clare County Library branches.

Praise for Something Beginning With P

'The most marvellously produced piece of work I have seen in a long time.
An investment -- a brilliant book'
Robert Dunbar, Rattlebag

'A dream for parents hoping to inspire a love of poetry, and a book that will never be outgrown.'
Sunday Independent

'The poems are written for children, which suits all of us. Buy it for your favourite niece. Keep it for yourself.'
Olivia O’Leary, The Irish Times

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