Poems Every Child Should Know: The What-Every-Child-Should-Know-Library

"Poems Every Child Should Know" edited by Mary E. Burt is a collection of poetry written in the early 20th century. This anthology gathers a variety of poems suitable for children, aiming to ignite their interest in poetry while providing access to pieces that are both engaging and meaningful. The collection features an array of well-known works from notable poets, encouraging children to memorize and appreciate the beauty of language. The opening of the anthology includes the editor's preface, where she expresses her intention to provide a selection of poems that resonate with children. She advocates for the importance of poetry in childhood, suggesting that the poems included are designed to be accessible and enjoyable, promoting a love for literature. Burt emphasizes that memorable, yet shorter works are essential, allowing children to connect with and internalize the rhythmic beauty of these verses. She shares a few examples of poems included in the collection, highlighting their appeal and suggesting various methods for engaging children with poetry, thus setting an encouraging tone for what comes in the rest of the compilation.