John Agard shortlisted for CLPE Poetry Award 2026

The latest anthology by award-winning poet John Agard has been shortlisted for the CLPE Poetry Award, CLiPPA 2026.

The Poetry of John Agard, illustrated by Shirley Hottier and published by Otter-Barry Books, is a celebration of John's work and includes 80 of John's favourite poems from 8 of his previously published collections. The new anthology reflects the genius of John through a range of poetic forms and styles and most of all his extraordinary ability to connect with children of all ages through poetry.

'The warmth and playfulness is irresistible', say the judges, 'Agard’s voice is so distinctive and reading this is like getting a hug.'

John won the CLiPPA in 2009 for The Young Inferno his retelling of Dante's classic Inferno, illustrated by Satoshi Kitamura and was also shortlisted in 2025 for Wise Up! Wise Down! with JonArno Lawson and illustrated by Satoshi Kitamura.