Michael Rosen - Poet and Author

Michael Rosen was born in 1946 in North London. One of the best-known figures in the children’s book world, he is renowned for his work as a poet, performer, broadcaster and scriptwriter. 

As an author and by selecting other writers’ works for anthologies he has been involved with over 140 books.  He lectures and teaches in universities on children’s literature, reading and writing. 

His books include poetry, fiction and picture books for children, including Michael Rosen's Sad Book and the Uncle Gobb series, illustrated by Neal Layton. His picture book, We're Going On a Bear Hunt, won multiple awards. His poetry books include Quick Let's Get Out of Here and Mustard, Custard, Grumble Belly and Gravy, illustrated by Quentin Blake; Michael Rosen’s Big Book of Bad Things; Jelly Boots, Smelly Boots, illustrated by David Tazzyman and A Great Big Cuddle, illustrated by Chris Ridell, which won the CLiPPA in 2016. 

He has also edited many anthologies for children, including The Kingfisher Book of Children's Poetry; Poems for the Very Young; and Classic Poetry, and has written non-fiction books for children about Shakespeare and Dickens.

His non-fiction for adults includes books for teachers, such as Did I Hear You Write?, the CLPE publication, A Year with Poetry and Michael Rosen’s Book of Play. His fiction and poetry for adults includes Carrying the Elephant, Don’t Mention the Children, So They Call You Pisher! and his most recent publication, Many Different Kinds of Love. 

Michael is a familiar voice to BBC listeners and is currently presenting Word of Mouth, the magazine programme that looks at the English language and the way we use it. He visits schools with his one-man show to enthuse children with his passion for books and poetry.

He was one of the first poets to make visits to schools throughout the UK and has also visited schools throughout the world. In 2007, Michael was appointed Children's Laureate, following in the distinguished footsteps of the likes of Quentin Blake and Jacqueline Wilson