The Word Witch: The Magical Verse of Margaret Mahy

Edited by Tessa Duder; illustrated by David Elliot (HarperCollins, RRP $44.99)

October is New Zealand Book Month, and I can't think of a better way to celebrate than with a collection of Margaret Mahy's works.

And The Word Witch is a very special treat as it's a collection of Mahy's poems, patiently gathered and edited by Tessa Duder, and illustrated by David Elliot. It's a cliche to say there's a little something here for everyone, but there truly is. Kiwi kids of all ages have been raised on the stories of Margaret Mahy and this collection of poems would be a very welcome addition to anyone's bookcase.

There are short, easy-to-read-aloud poems like Once Upon an Evening, which would be a perfect introduction for young readers to the wonderful worlds Mahy creates, or George's Pet, which tells a complete story in just eight lines. There are longer poems like The Springing Granny, which is a wonderful piece of silliness, and Down the Back of the Chair, which just make you smile.

Elliot's illustrations in very lively colours bring the poems to life with vivid imagery. Duder has compiled an excellent collection here, and it's one that should have pride of place on every Kiwi book shelf.

- © Fairfax NZ News