‘Instead of a Card’ poetry booklets make perfect presents – unusual, beautiful, worthwhile and definitely not for throwing away.

They come with an envelope and bookmark left blank for your message. 

Interesting and enjoyable to read, they make an excellent introduction to the work of contemporary and historical poets.

Ten Poems about Dogs pays tribute to man’s – and woman’s – best friend.   Introduced by much-loved broadcaster and author Dame Jenni Murray, the poems reveal the great affection people feel for their dogs (and dogs for their owners).  In amongst alternately poignant and hilarious accounts of dog-ownership, are some slightly unsociable aspects, like the neighbours’ dog in Billy Collins’ poem, which barks loud and long every time they go out… .

Whether you are a dog-lover or need a peace-offering for your neighbours these poems make a wonderful introduction to the canine world as documented over the centuries in poetry.  As Dame Jenni Murray says in her Introduction,  “It’s such a relief to find wonderful poems like these and realise you’re not alone in your canine passion.”

The Dog

The truth I do not stretch or shove

When I state the dog is full of love.

I’ve also proved, by actual test,

A wet dog is the lovingest.

by Ogden Nash (1902 – 1971)

Poems by Elizabeth Barrett Browning, George Gordon (Lord) Byron, Billy Collins, Susan Hamlyn, Ogden Nash, Linda Pastan, Andrew Barton (Banjo) Paterson, Siegfried Sassoon, Stevie Smith and Paul Yandle.

Illustrated by Beth Krommes.