A RING OF BELLS: Introduced and Selected for the Young by Irene Slade

by John Betjeman ‧ RELEASE DATE: May 14, 1963

Simplicity, lyricism, and rhythm characterize many of these poems by an established poet. Mr. Betjeman writes with equal ease about the streets of London and the ""sweet uneventful countryside"" of his native England. An Episcopal background or some knowledge of the Anglican church would help in reading some of these poems (e.g. ""Exchange of Livings"") but there are fairly extensive notes in the back of the book for the more conscientious. Many young readers of poetry will enjoy the humor of some (e.g. ""Diary of a Church Mouse"") and the light tone of the poem about ercival Mandeville, a school master's dream-boy. The rhyming poems will be easily appreciated, while the blank verse ones will demand more of the reader. All in all, a pleasurable, varied selection decorated with fine pen and ink sketches by Edward Ardizone.

Pub Date: May 14, 1963

ISBN: N/A

Page Count: -

Publisher: Houghton Mifflin

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: May 1, 1963

Categories: FICTION