Words Can Fly by Donna Ashworth

Donna Ashworth’s Words Can Fly is a poetry collection designed for children yet resonant enough to speak to adults. Known for her accessible and heartfelt verse, Ashworth has established herself as one of the UK’s bestselling poets, and here she turns her attention to the emotional and imaginative world of young readers. The result is a book that feels both timeless and timely, offering gentle guidance through childhood’s joys and uncertainties.

At its core, the collection charts the journey of growing up, touching on family life, friendship, school experiences, and the natural curiosity that shapes a child’s developing sense of self. Each poem operates as a vignette, a small window into the concerns and celebrations of daily life, whether that be navigating the complexities of social belonging, managing worry, or delighting in the small wonders of the world. The structure allows readers to dip in and out of the book, making it a versatile companion for moments of reflection or shared reading.

Ashworth’s characterisation emerges less through individuals than through universal archetypes: the curious child, the loyal friend, the nurturing parent. These figures are recognisable, inviting young readers to see themselves mirrored in the poems. This universality is one of the collection’s strengths, encouraging empathy and self-recognition without prescribing a single way of being. Rather than offering didactic advice, Ashworth adopts a guiding voice that affirms and empowers, reminding children that their feelings are valid and their individuality is something to be celebrated.

The themes of resilience, kindness, and belonging thread through the poems with subtle consistency. The collection champions a growth mindset, encouraging children to approach challenges with curiosity rather than fear. Difficult subjects such as anxiety and self-doubt are addressed with a lightness of touch, never minimising their impact yet presenting them as surmountable parts of life’s journey. Just as importantly, moments of joy and silliness are woven in, ensuring that the tone remains uplifting without tipping into sentimentality.

Stylistically, Ashworth employs a deceptively simple language. The clarity of her diction ensures accessibility for readers aged six to eleven, but beneath the surface lies a rhythm and resonance that makes the poems rewarding for adults too. Repetition, rhyme, and gentle imagery create verses that are easy to remember and recite, making them ideal for reading aloud. The partnership with illustrator Eirinn McGuinness enhances the effect, with illustrations that provide visual echoes of the text, adding warmth and charm without overwhelming the words.

The literary significance of Words Can Fly lies in its ability to situate poetry within the everyday lives of children. In an age where the pressures of school and social media can weigh heavily, Ashworth offers a collection that is both a sanctuary and a springboard for discussion. Parents and teachers will find it a useful resource for initiating conversations about feelings, while children will find in it a companion that speaks to their hopes and fears with honesty and compassion.

Reviewer: Chris Reed

Allen & Unwin