A Treasury of Nursery Rhymes and Poems (Nosy Crow Classics)

There’s something magical about nursery rhymes—the way they weave rhythm, whimsy, and wisdom into bite-sized verses that linger in our memories long after childhood. A Treasury of Nursery Rhymes and Poems (Nosy Crow Classics) by Frann Preston-Gannon is a love letter to that magic. This beautifully illustrated collection is more than just a book; it’s a keepsake, a bedtime companion, and a doorway to imagination for young readers and nostalgic adults alike.

But does it stand out in a sea of nursery rhyme collections? Is it worth adding to your family’s library? In this in-depth review, we’ll explore everything from its enchanting artwork to its timeless selections, helping you decide if this treasury deserves a spot on your shelf.

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Unlike many nursery rhyme books that stick to the usual suspects ("Twinkle Twinkle Little Star," "Humpty Dumpty"), Preston-Gannon’s treasury offers a delightful mix of the familiar and the lesser-known. The book is divided into thematic sections, making it easy to navigate:

• Playful Rhymes – Lively, action-packed verses like "This Little Piggy" and "Pat-a-Cake."
• Animal Antics – Charming poems featuring creatures, from "Three Little Kittens" to "The Owl and the Pussycat."
• Bedtime Lullabies – Soothing selections perfect for winding down, such as "Hush Little Baby" and "Wynken, Blynken, and Nod."
• Nonsense and Fun – Whimsical, tongue-twisting rhymes like "Hey Diddle Diddle" and "The Quangle Wangle’s Hat."

The variety ensures that every reading session feels fresh, whether you're looking for a quick giggle or a calming pre-sleep ritual.

Frann Preston-Gannon’s artwork is the heart of this collection. Her illustrations are warm, vibrant, and full of personality—each page feels like a mini-story unfolding. The characters (both human and animal) are expressive and diverse, subtly modernizing these age-old rhymes without losing their classic charm.

One standout example is her depiction of "The Itsy Bitsy Spider"—instead of a simple spider climbing a spout, we see a determined little arachnid with big, hopeful eyes, making the rhyme feel newly endearing.

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While nursery rhymes are often dismissed as frivolous, they serve a deeper purpose:

• Language Development – The rhythmic, repetitive nature helps young children grasp phonetics and vocabulary.
• Cultural Continuity – Many rhymes have historical roots (e.g., "Ring Around the Rosie" ties to the Great Plague), offering subtle teaching moments.
• Emotional Comfort – Predictable, rhyming structures provide security and routine for little ones.

Preston-Gannon’s curation respects these layers, making the book both fun and meaningful.

While staying true to tradition, the book includes subtle updates—diverse characters, gender-neutral phrasing in some rhymes, and playful twists in the art. It feels inclusive without being heavy-handed, ensuring all children see themselves in these stories.

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Reading this book aloud, I found myself transported back to my own childhood. The familiarity of "Jack and Jill" and "Little Miss Muffet" was comforting, yet the lesser-known poems ("The Table and the Chair" by Edward Lear) added a fresh spark.

My toddler’s reactions were priceless—giggles at "Higglety Pigglety Pop," wide-eyed wonder at "The Moon" by Robert Louis Stevenson. The illustrations kept her engaged, pointing out details ("Look, the cow jumped over the moon!").

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How does this stack up against classics like The Real Mother Goose or Tomie dePaola’s Mother Goose?

• Illustrations: Preston-Gannon’s style is more contemporary and whimsical compared to dePaola’s folk-art approach.
• Selection: Broader than The Real Mother Goose, including more obscure poems.
• Durability: The hardcover and thick pages make it sturdy for little hands—unlike flimsier editions.

If you want a mix of tradition and modernity, this is a winner.

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✅ Gorgeous Artwork – Every page is a visual treat.
✅ Thoughtful Curation – Balances well-known and rare rhymes.
✅ Durable & Kid-Friendly – High-quality binding and paper.
✅ Inclusive & Fresh – Subtle updates make it feel current.

❌ No Annotations – Some parents might miss historical context notes.
❌ A Few Missing Favorites – No "Peter Piper" or "Mary Had a Little Lamb," which may disappoint some.

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• Parents & Grandparents – A perfect gift for baby showers or first libraries.
• Early Educators – Great for circle time or language lessons.
• Nostalgic Adults – A beautiful keepsake edition.

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A Treasury of Nursery Rhymes and Poems is more than just a book—it’s an heirloom. Frann Preston-Gannon’s artistry and thoughtful selection make it a standout in the genre. Whether you’re introducing a child to the joy of rhymes or revisiting your own childhood favorites, this treasury delivers warmth, wonder, and endless re-readability.

🔗 Get the Book: Amazon

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• What’s your favorite nursery rhyme from childhood?
• Do you think modern updates to classic rhymes are necessary?
• How do you use nursery rhymes with your kids (e.g., bedtime, learning tools)?

Let’s chat in the comments! 📚💬

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