Rising Stars

"This book is an enjoyable collection of varied ideas and I hope it encourages other beginning poets. Poetry is not easy to illustrate, yet these young artist are to be commended in their work with these young poets."

* IBBY Link *

"The five young poets of the anthology Rising Stars are also slam-seasoned, pared back to assured, mature, charismatic essentials."

-- Imogen Russell Williams * Times Literary Supplement *

"This collection takes risks and excitingly pulls it off with real zing. A sharp, crisp 21st century anthology that breaks down barriers about what poetry can be and poets can do, this is a collection to have in your back pocket."

* Playing by the Book *

"This selection of exciting and inspiring poems from young talent is guaranteed to get young minds working."

* Booktrust - Books we Love *

"A vital and pioneering poetry anthology by diverse young writers for diverse readers, aimed at the bridge year between primary and secondary school. The poets included are both BAME and LGBTQI, and have created a volume in which school age readers can finally see their own selves. Soulful, inspiring and uplifting."

-- Joelle Taylor * Achuka Best Books of the Year *

"As well as the freshness of new voices, what characterises all these poets' work is the skill with which they work with complex ideas using apparently simple devices and forms. Listen out for them all in the future!"

* Reading Zone *

"A super initiative and great to see these poets and illustrators brought to our attention."

* Parents in Touch *

"Five writers come together to celebrate life, love and youth in this engaging collection of poetry."

* The Book Bag *

"This sparkling anthology features the work of five talented young poets. Each has a distinctive voice, and every one of the poems in this collection will catch the imagination of young people; bringing them together in an anthology gives the poems even more impact and emphasises the unique power of poetry for young people as a means to share ideas, thoughts and feelings….The collection is illustrated by three young students in their final year at Birmingham City University’s illustration course, and the whole project is a celebration of new talent,rising stars indeed. It’s exciting to read, will be exciting to share. Congratulations to all those involved in its creation."

* Books for Kee