Michael Rosen
Michael Rosen wrote his first poems when he was twelve, and he has been writing ever since. He loves words, and especially loves talking to children and adults about how we can play with them. He may have got that from his father, who loved to sing songs in different languages and recite bits of poetry or plays – especially Shakespeare. Michael’s parents and his brother all loved jokes, stories and songs, and many of his poems are about his family life as a young boy.
Michael’s first book for children was Mind Your Own Business, a collection of poetry that was illustrated by Quentin Blake. Since then, he has published many more poetry collections, picture books and anthologies, and has become one of our best-known and best-loved authors. In 2007, Michael became the fifth Children’s Laureate (2007-2009).
Michael's most recent books include On The Move: Poems about Migration, illustrated by Quentin Blake, and Sticky McStickstick, illustrated by Tony Ross.
- Children’s Laureate
- Chevalier de l’ordre des arts et des letters awarded by the French Government
- National Literacy WOW Award
- Eleanor Farjeon Award for distinguished services to children’s literature
- Smarties Best Children’s Book of the Year Award
- Signal Poetry Award
One of our most popular writers - the champion for every bored, overdrilled, tested-to-tears pupil in the land
Did you know…
When he was growing up Michael wanted to be a doctor and he studied medicine for a year at university, before realising that it was words and writing that he really wanted to study.
One of his favourite children’s books is Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak.
Michael supports Arsenal Football Club.
Find out more on Michael Rosen's website
Publishers' websites
Watch:
Why don't you have a go at writing your own poem? Michael Rosen gives some advice on how to get started.
Don't Tell Your Mother
No Breathing!
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