Packing A Bag for Mars packs poems of every punch and variety into a kitbag that can barely keep them contained.

The poems, along with Jenny Cooper’s witty illustrations, reveal what most teachers and nearly all pupils secretly know – that poetry can be fun to read and fun to write.

Here you will find poems that play, poems that pick your pocket, poems that will put a smile on your face and pepper your pizza! For the most part they are easily accessible but in case they do puzzle and perplex at times, there are explanatory notes and a guide to the main poetic techniques used. 

Even better, there is a helpful interview with a friendly author and a writing prompt with each poem, to encourage you to pack your own bag for Mars – or anywhere else that poetry may take you.