Tab Article

Ratings: ★★★★★ (5/5)
Genre: Children's Literature, Poetry, Nursery Rhymes, Reference, Anthology

Book Review:
''The Oxford Nursery Rhyme Book,'' assembled by the renowned folklorists Iona and Peter Opie, is the definitive collection of English-language nursery rhymes. This is not just a children's book; it's a scholarly yet utterly charming treasury that preserves centuries of oral tradition. Featuring over 800 rhymes accompanied by more than 600 period illustrations, it captures the whimsy, rhythm, and sometimes the intriguing oddness of classic rhymes. The Opies' careful curation ensures a mix of the universally familiar (''Jack and Jill,'' ''Humpty Dumpty'') and the delightfully obscure. The illustrations, sourced from historical chapbooks and toy books, add a layer of visual nostalgia and beauty. This volume is an indispensable resource for parents seeking to share cultural heritage, for educators building early literacy skills, and for anyone who appreciates the folklore that shapes childhood. It's a book to be cherished and passed down through generations.