Time to Rhyme by Nigel Tetley, Illustrated by Peter David Scott - REVIEW
One of the best ways to introduce children to complex ideas is through storytelling, and Nigel Tetley does just that in Time to Rhyme. This delightful picture book blends playful poems with heartwarming illustrations, capturing the cycles and seasons. Through rhythmic verses, Tetley introduces young readers to the concept of time, teaching them about the days of the week, the seasons, and the months of the year, while also introducing them to poetry.
Tetley’s three poems in Time to Rhyme strike a perfect balance between being fun and educational, allowing kids to absorb important lessons without feeling overwhelmed or bored. Each poem pulls double duty, gently introducing young readers to nature’s rhythms and language while sparking curiosity about the world. This approach makes Time to Rhyme enjoyable for both children and the adults reading along, ensuring it’s more than just another read-aloud exercise for parents. In fact, some lines wouldn’t feel out of place in a poetry collection for adults, as the verses flow naturally and celebrate life’s simple pleasures in a way that feels genuine. The second poem, My Shadow, beautifully captures the nostalgia of childhood, encouraging young readers to explore the everyday wonders that adults often overlook. It’s easy to imagine this book becoming a beloved staple for both classroom reading and cosy bedtimes.
The first thing you notice about Time to Rhyme is its beautiful, full-page illustrations—not just on the cover but accompanying each poem inside. Peter David Scott’s classic, hand-drawn style adds a cosy, timeless feel to the book, bringing each of Tetley’s poems to life in a way that feels both nostalgic and fresh. His illustrations set Time to Rhyme apart from today’s picture book trends, evoking the charm of classic children’s books and bringing to mind the old Famous Five editions my parents used to have. Together, Tetley’s words and Scott’s art create an inviting world that both kids and adults will love stepping into.
At its core, this book is all about inviting children into the wonder of language. By the time they finish Time to Rhyme, young readers will have enjoyed a collection of playful poems and picked up a sense of the natural rhythms around us. Nigel Tetley’s warm, rhythmic writing, paired with Peter David Scott’s sweet illustrations, creates a timeless experience that kids, parents, grandparents, and teachers alike will enjoy. It’s a perfect addition to any child’s library and a story time go-to. Whether you’re an adult feeling nostalgic for the simpler times of childhood or reading it with a little one who’s just starting to explore language, Time to Rhyme has something for everyone.
