children's poem needed

[Best Aunt]

My 8-year old niece in the U.S needs to memorize a poem and recite it in front of the class. The poet must be from another country. Six line minimum. Help! Any suggestions?

 

[mikki.young]

How about 'The Donkey' by GK Chesterton. Think I was about 8 when I had to memorise it for school and it's appropriate for near Easter.

When fishes flew and forests walked
And figs grew upon thorn,
Some moment when the moon was blood
Then surely I was born.

With monstrous head and sickening cry
And ears like errant wings,
The devil’s walking parody
On all four-footed things.

The tattered outlaw of the earth,
Of ancient crooked will;
Starve, scourge, deride me: I am dumb,
I keep my secret still.

Fools! For I also had my hour;
One far fierce hour and sweet:
There was a shout about my ears,
And palms before my feet.

 

[dixonsontour]

I wish I'd looked after me teeth by Pam Ayres?

I can remember learning it as school - may have been a little older though 10 or 11.

 

[joolz1910]

What about Revolting Rhymes and Dirty Beasts by Roald Dahl?

 

[Dimplenose]

The poem "Please Mrs Butler" by Allan Ahlberg always goes down well at our school's poetry competitions.

 

[Best Aunt]

You guys are great - thanks.