Out Of This World: A brand new collection of poems to make you laugh, smile and think, from the former Children’s Laureate
What’s inside...
Out Of This World is a lively collection of brand-new poems from former UK Children’s Laureate Michael Rosen. Mixing laugh-out-loud humour with thoughtful reflections on family, school and the sheer wonder of looking up at the night sky, Rosen invites children to view everyday life as an adventure. Rich word-play, memorable rhythms and vivid imagery create a reading experience that moves effortlessly from giggles to big ideas about feelings, friendships and the wider universe.
Age
7-10
Length
208 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
Which poem made you laugh most? Why?
How does the poet turn an ordinary moment into something special?
What feelings did you recognise in the bedtime poems?
If you wrote a space poem, what would you include?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage children to illustrate a favourite poem.
Take turns performing verses using different voices.
Relate poems to real-life events (e.g., stargazing trip).
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Finding humour in everyday life
Explanation: Classroom mishaps become funny poems rather than frustrations.
Real-World Application: Children can reframe small setbacks with a smile.
Example Lesson: Curiosity leads to discovery
Explanation: Space poems show questions as gateways to learning.
Real-World Application: Encourage asking ‘why’ in science or nature explorations.
Example Lesson: Sharing feelings builds connection
Explanation: Reflective verses model talking about worries.
Real-World Application: Kids learn to express emotions to trusted adults.
Example Lesson: Teamwork solves playground conflicts
Explanation: Poems show friends negotiating rules and apologies.
Real-World Application: Use cooperative problem-solving during group activities.
Example Lesson: Imagination fuels creativity
Explanation: Ordinary objects become portals to fantastical worlds.
Real-World Application: Stimulates creative writing and play.