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She'll Be the Sky: Poems by Women and Girls
From well-loved poets — including Maya Angelou, Wendy Cope, Lucille Clifton, and Christina Rossetti — to newer voices — such as Amanda Gorman, Yrsa-Daley Ward, and Amineh Abou Kerech — this outstanding collection from talented anthologist Ella Risbridger has poems for every mood and every moment. Ella's selection is wide-ranging but accessible and will appeal to poetry lovers both young and old alike.
144 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2022
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
October 5, 2022
And everything will be glad to see you
Poems by women and girls selected by Ella Risbridger and illustrated by Anna Shepeta
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is truly stunning! I mean I sound like a total fangirl but … I am . The illustrations are enchanting and if you want to escape the world and fall into a different one this is for you!
I think it’s such a great idea to show such a wide range of poems and some by writers as young as five as it shows such a wide range of views.
I whole heartedly advise anyone who picks up this book to read the forward and afterward by Ella Risbridger which has been written in a wonderful way to include all readers young and old and which beautifully explains the reasoning behind the anthology and why she wanted to create a collection from women and non binary poets.
My favourite poem if I have to pick one (in case you are wondering) was ‘Sometimes change is just one girl’
‘Sometimes, change
is just one girl with her fists clenched,
no longer willing
to be trodden on.
By Elisabeth Hewer’
The illustrations are so dazzling and the poems so uplifting, delightful and empowering I think this would make the perfect Christmas prezzie and will be gifting this to a lot of strong women I know!
Thank you so much for @nosycrow @ellarisbridger @halber.mensch @tandemcollectiveuk for including me in this read-along, these poems will stay will me.
December 28, 2023
4. This is an excellent collection of poems for young women…and old ones, too. I love the selections, as they address a myriad of roles, points of view, moments in time and place. There’s a little something for every girl here. The illustrations are top notch, colorful, dancing across the pages. It’s a lovely experience reading this one. The only thing that keeps it from being a perfect five is the forward and afterwards, I rather despise it when an adult superimposes their ideas and feelings in pages that are meant to be for children’s exploration. Let them be, to play amongst the verse. They’ll find their way.
July 23, 2024
A well-curated poetry collection of poems from women and girls -- for girls and non-binary folks. The far reaching span of this collection - with poets throughout history and from all over the world. Many of these poems work nicely for a read aloud, and they are all accompanied by colorful pen and ink illustrations.
June 19, 2025
As a discerning book blogger, I promise you: this book isn’t just good—it’s quietly transformative.
A Global Chorus of Women’s Voices
This volume gathers poems by women and girls from around the world—voices ranging from the established (Maya Angelou, Christina Rossetti) to rising talent (Amanda Gorman, Yrsa Daley‑Ward) . What unifies these works is emotional honesty: joy, sorrow, courage, growth. Each poem pulses with feelings we’ve all felt but too rarely see on the page.
Words That Make You Feel Seen
The poems are woven with such care and clarity that they feel like conversations—moments where you realize, “Yes, that’s exactly how I feel.” They don’t just read well; they resonate. And when paired with Anna Shepeta’s lush, thoughtful illustrations, the emotional impact deepens. The artwork isn’t just decoration—it’s an echo, amplifying the emotion in each text.
Perfect for Mother–Child Moments
Looking for a way to build a reading
❤️ Why You Should Read It
Emotional richness: Each poem offers a moment of clarity, surprise, or tenderness—where you feel deeply seen.
Art that speaks: The visuals don’t just accompany—they enhance.
Ideal for sharing: Whether with your child, a friend, or on your own, these poems spark conversation and connection.
A gentle introduction to poetry: Accessible yet powerful, this is perfect for beginners and seasoned readers alike.
Final Thoughts
This isn’t a collection you skim—it’s one you sit with. It reminds us of poetry’s greatest power: to name the unsaid, to reflect our hearts, and to connect us across ages and experiences.
And Everything Will Be Glad to See You invites us in, holds space for our emotions, and leaves us quieter, kinder, braver.
If you want a gift—for yourself, your children, or any reader—this is it: honest, true, and simply unforgettable.
Read it. Feel it. Share it.
A Global Chorus of Women’s Voices
This volume gathers poems by women and girls from around the world—voices ranging from the established (Maya Angelou, Christina Rossetti) to rising talent (Amanda Gorman, Yrsa Daley‑Ward) . What unifies these works is emotional honesty: joy, sorrow, courage, growth. Each poem pulses with feelings we’ve all felt but too rarely see on the page.
Words That Make You Feel Seen
The poems are woven with such care and clarity that they feel like conversations—moments where you realize, “Yes, that’s exactly how I feel.” They don’t just read well; they resonate. And when paired with Anna Shepeta’s lush, thoughtful illustrations, the emotional impact deepens. The artwork isn’t just decoration—it’s an echo, amplifying the emotion in each text.
Perfect for Mother–Child Moments
Looking for a way to build a reading
❤️ Why You Should Read It
Emotional richness: Each poem offers a moment of clarity, surprise, or tenderness—where you feel deeply seen.
Art that speaks: The visuals don’t just accompany—they enhance.
Ideal for sharing: Whether with your child, a friend, or on your own, these poems spark conversation and connection.
A gentle introduction to poetry: Accessible yet powerful, this is perfect for beginners and seasoned readers alike.
Final Thoughts
This isn’t a collection you skim—it’s one you sit with. It reminds us of poetry’s greatest power: to name the unsaid, to reflect our hearts, and to connect us across ages and experiences.
And Everything Will Be Glad to See You invites us in, holds space for our emotions, and leaves us quieter, kinder, braver.
If you want a gift—for yourself, your children, or any reader—this is it: honest, true, and simply unforgettable.
Read it. Feel it. Share it.
June 16, 2025
For more bookish opinions, visit my blog: Craft-Cycle
A nice anthology of poetry from a variety of poets from around the globe and across time. Includes some classic poets like Emily Dickinson, Sappho, and Christina Rossetti, more modern voices like Amanda Gorman, Joy Harjo, and Mary Oliver, and some new voices including poems from children.
The poetry is quite wide-ranging, with different styles, intended audiences, and topics. Some are humorous, some are inspiring, some are written directly for children, and some have an older or more general audience. Includes themes of nature, animals, food, siblings, family, school, pets, religion, history, seasons, aging, play, and activism.
Stunning illustrations. Each spread is so beautiful and wonderful to look at. Lovely details and use of color. I really enjoyed the art style.
The broad theme of poems written by mostly women and girls makes for a wide range of poems. The poems are roughly grouped together by theme, but it was a little jarring sometimes switching styles and tones from poem to poem.
Definitely came across some new poetry I enjoyed and poets to read more from. Because the anthology includes such a range of poets, I would have liked to have a little bit of bio on each one. But a nice place to explore new poems. I've already looked into reading books from some of the poets featured.
A nice anthology overall with an impressive range and gorgeous artwork.
A nice anthology of poetry from a variety of poets from around the globe and across time. Includes some classic poets like Emily Dickinson, Sappho, and Christina Rossetti, more modern voices like Amanda Gorman, Joy Harjo, and Mary Oliver, and some new voices including poems from children.
The poetry is quite wide-ranging, with different styles, intended audiences, and topics. Some are humorous, some are inspiring, some are written directly for children, and some have an older or more general audience. Includes themes of nature, animals, food, siblings, family, school, pets, religion, history, seasons, aging, play, and activism.
Stunning illustrations. Each spread is so beautiful and wonderful to look at. Lovely details and use of color. I really enjoyed the art style.
The broad theme of poems written by mostly women and girls makes for a wide range of poems. The poems are roughly grouped together by theme, but it was a little jarring sometimes switching styles and tones from poem to poem.
Definitely came across some new poetry I enjoyed and poets to read more from. Because the anthology includes such a range of poets, I would have liked to have a little bit of bio on each one. But a nice place to explore new poems. I've already looked into reading books from some of the poets featured.
A nice anthology overall with an impressive range and gorgeous artwork.
August 10, 2025
And Everything Will Be Glad to See You by Ella Risbrdger and illustrated by Ann Shepeta
I might not understand all kinds of poetry but poetry by women I do. I understand it like I try to understand my own self. The struggles, the charm, the sadness and joy. It is about everything, our rights and everyone else’s, the dreams we nurture and the ones we’re trying to achieve. Ellas Risbridger gently places this anthology in our hands, a fond remembrance of an anthology she read long back at her grandmother’s place and with a promise from us that we will read more and more poems after reading this. A new wonderful beginning of exploring poets that came before us and the ones that are writing poets now.
This heavy (literally) albeit GORGEOUS book is not something you can carry around. It is meant to be savoured when you are lolling on a sofa or curled up in bed. The poetry fills you with wonder and strength. Young women and old, have graced this collection with their ideas and thoughts. I loved when I saw the names of familiar poets and I jumped to find more about the ones I didn’t know. Naidu, Rosetti, Duffy, Mansfield, Cope and so many familiar names! I had the time of my life with this book! I love a book exclusively made for women and Risbridger has also included poems by non-binary people in it along with poems by ‘anonymous’ because most of the times in history, an anon has been a woman. The foreword and afterword by the author is a delight to read! If someone loves poetry this is the best gift!!
Ann Shepeta’s illustrations will genuinely make you fall in love with the book more. I felt like a child reading her very first book, that’s how beautiful it was!
[poetry book, anthology, women, girls, non-binary, poems, illustrated books, bookstagram, books, feminism]
I might not understand all kinds of poetry but poetry by women I do. I understand it like I try to understand my own self. The struggles, the charm, the sadness and joy. It is about everything, our rights and everyone else’s, the dreams we nurture and the ones we’re trying to achieve. Ellas Risbridger gently places this anthology in our hands, a fond remembrance of an anthology she read long back at her grandmother’s place and with a promise from us that we will read more and more poems after reading this. A new wonderful beginning of exploring poets that came before us and the ones that are writing poets now.
This heavy (literally) albeit GORGEOUS book is not something you can carry around. It is meant to be savoured when you are lolling on a sofa or curled up in bed. The poetry fills you with wonder and strength. Young women and old, have graced this collection with their ideas and thoughts. I loved when I saw the names of familiar poets and I jumped to find more about the ones I didn’t know. Naidu, Rosetti, Duffy, Mansfield, Cope and so many familiar names! I had the time of my life with this book! I love a book exclusively made for women and Risbridger has also included poems by non-binary people in it along with poems by ‘anonymous’ because most of the times in history, an anon has been a woman. The foreword and afterword by the author is a delight to read! If someone loves poetry this is the best gift!!
Ann Shepeta’s illustrations will genuinely make you fall in love with the book more. I felt like a child reading her very first book, that’s how beautiful it was!
[poetry book, anthology, women, girls, non-binary, poems, illustrated books, bookstagram, books, feminism]
September 11, 2022
4.5 stars. A big book full of beautifully chosen poems by women and girls, some famous poets and some young, so far unknowns. This is a really nice collection, Sara Teasdale, Edna Vincent Millay, Emily Dickinson, Eleanor Farjeon, Kathryn Mansfield, Carol Ann Duff, Mary Webb, Vita Sackville-West, Christina Rossetti.... Lovely illustrations too, nice big book to read by yourself or with a small person.
October 12, 2022
Once again, thank you so much to @nosycrow amd @tandemcollectiveuk for this beautiful poem anthology and tote bag!
I feel so lucky that I got to be part of this readalong. The poems made for great Bedtime reading and I absolutely loved the illustrations. With this review, I am sharing some of my other favourite poems featured within the book. If you are a fan of poetry, then you are definitely going to want to pick up a copy.
I feel so lucky that I got to be part of this readalong. The poems made for great Bedtime reading and I absolutely loved the illustrations. With this review, I am sharing some of my other favourite poems featured within the book. If you are a fan of poetry, then you are definitely going to want to pick up a copy.
October 29, 2022
Beautiful book of poetry written by women and girls. The poems were powerful and uplifting, it was amazing to know that girls from just 6 years old were able to write such moving, imaginative things. The stunning illustrations, paired with the words really got your mind working to make you picture it all. I loved how the poems flowed together and followed one another.
March 12, 2025
a delightful collection of poetry written by (primarily) female authors (there is one non-binary author featured in this book as well). but it's the illustrations that really shine. anna shepeta has crafted a book of gorgeous illustrations, lush landscapes, and darling women on each page. i can't recommend this illustrations alone enough.
December 28, 2022
A collection of poetry by women, girls, and non-binary authors.
It's organised thematically, but they flow organically.
Although aimed at children, this anthology can - and should - be appreciated by all.
It's organised thematically, but they flow organically.
Although aimed at children, this anthology can - and should - be appreciated by all.
October 24, 2023
A beautiful collection of poetry by girls, woman and non-binary authors! -> organised thematically and with a natural flow + DAZZLING illustrations! Full on empowerment and confidence, for the big and little ladies.
March 28, 2025
A collection of poems that lean towards classical but has modern elements as well. The illustrations are fun and set the tone. Overall it is a nice introduction to female (and a few anonymous and at least one nonbinary ) poets.
October 23, 2022
Some absolutely beautiful poetry! Have shared the book with my daughter and my school and both loved it
January 29, 2023
Notable poems for me:
Rosa Parks
Harriet Tubman
In Isas Bed
Your Grandmother
Like A Sun
Rosa Parks
Harriet Tubman
In Isas Bed
Your Grandmother
Like A Sun
April 12, 2024
this was stunning... wish i could give a copy to everyone i know
May 3, 2024
Read w 8yo. Beautiful collection of words and images. Fosters a sense of discovery. Inspiring.
June 24, 2024
What a beautiful book! I am so glad I made the decision to buy this for my daughter for her birthday. The chosen poetry in this anthology is so well thought out and the illustrations are perfect. I have a new favourite poem since reading this which is “93 Percent Stardust” by Nikita Gill. The foreword and afterword are beautifully written and are essential reading, perhaps you’re wondering yourself why you should read an anthology that only features work by girls and women well it’s all laid out in the foreword. Truly wonderful! I look forward to the day I choose to read it all again.
Rating 5/5
Rating 5/5
February 15, 2026
Absolutely gorgeous collection.
January 20, 2024
Summary: Ella's curation masterfully weaves the words of poets like Nikita Gill, Wendy Cope, Lucille Clifton, and others, offering a wide-ranging yet accessible collection that speaks to poetry lovers of all ages. The beautiful artwork and illustrations enhance the collection, making this anthology a visual and literary delight.
Pros:
🌈 Five stars for this poetic masterpiece! "She'll Be the Sky" takes flight from the first poem by my beloved Nikita Gill, setting the tone for an exceptional collection.
😍 The variety of poems is like a buffet, offering flavors that range from the classic to the contemporary, satisfying every craving.
🎨 Lovely artwork and illustrations adorn the pages, transforming the collection into a visual feast. It's like a gallery of emotions captured in beautiful illustrations.
💖 The sweet, inclusive, and heartfelt introduction and afterward add a personal touch, making the anthology feel like a warm embrace.
Cons:
🚀 As much as I appreciate the effort, I suspect the introduction and afterward might soar over the heads of younger readers, or worse, they might just skip it. This literary gem is best appreciated by teens and adults who can savor its richness.
📚 In conclusion, "She'll Be the Sky" is a collection that elevates the soul. Whether you're a seasoned poetry lover or a newcomer to verse, this collection is a journey worth taking. Bravo, Ella Risbridger! 🌌📚
Disclaimer: A galaxy-sized thank you to NetGalley and Nosy Crow Inc. for this ARC copy. All opinions are as uniquely mine as a metaphor in a Maya Angelou poem. 🌠📚
Pros:
🌈 Five stars for this poetic masterpiece! "She'll Be the Sky" takes flight from the first poem by my beloved Nikita Gill, setting the tone for an exceptional collection.
😍 The variety of poems is like a buffet, offering flavors that range from the classic to the contemporary, satisfying every craving.
🎨 Lovely artwork and illustrations adorn the pages, transforming the collection into a visual feast. It's like a gallery of emotions captured in beautiful illustrations.
💖 The sweet, inclusive, and heartfelt introduction and afterward add a personal touch, making the anthology feel like a warm embrace.
Cons:
🚀 As much as I appreciate the effort, I suspect the introduction and afterward might soar over the heads of younger readers, or worse, they might just skip it. This literary gem is best appreciated by teens and adults who can savor its richness.
📚 In conclusion, "She'll Be the Sky" is a collection that elevates the soul. Whether you're a seasoned poetry lover or a newcomer to verse, this collection is a journey worth taking. Bravo, Ella Risbridger! 🌌📚
Disclaimer: A galaxy-sized thank you to NetGalley and Nosy Crow Inc. for this ARC copy. All opinions are as uniquely mine as a metaphor in a Maya Angelou poem. 🌠📚
January 14, 2024
A fantastic, well-rounded collection of poetry, made all the more vibrant by the colorful art. The art was such a delightful accompaniment that I'm now convinced all poetry books should be accessorized with art. It enhanced the whole sensory experience.
As for the actual poems, there are a great variety. There are pieces about historical figures, fantasy pieces, poems about astronomy, cats, etc. My favorites happened to be two poems about the stars, which I went back and reread multiple times, letting them thrill and delight me.
If you're looking for something not overly esoteric, with a broad range of subject matter that ultimately celebrates women and nature, this is a perfect choice.
As for the actual poems, there are a great variety. There are pieces about historical figures, fantasy pieces, poems about astronomy, cats, etc. My favorites happened to be two poems about the stars, which I went back and reread multiple times, letting them thrill and delight me.
If you're looking for something not overly esoteric, with a broad range of subject matter that ultimately celebrates women and nature, this is a perfect choice.
April 28, 2024
With over 100 poems written ✍🏼 by girls, women, non-binary and anonymous individuals on a world of topics you'll definitely find something to enjoy. Is poetry written by women and girls really different than that written by men and boys? Not really. Risbridger brings light to the structural bias that has made it that much harder for females to create this form of art and get it published. We all deserve to share our work and she created this selection to expose the world to many poets we may not otherwise encounter. Some are well-known individuals and others lesser-known names but they'll all share a new perspective and maybe even alter your mindset a smidge.
January 16, 2025
This vibrant anthology bursts with poems sure to resonate with young women!
The collection skillfully weaves together diverse voices, exploring a tapestry of experiences, emotions, and perspectives. Each piece feels like a unique journey, transporting readers to different moments and places. There's a real sense of inclusivity here, offering something for every girl to connect with. Complementing the poems are stunning illustrations that dance across the pages, adding another layer of delightful discovery.
A recommended purchase for school and public libraries serving middle grade readers.
M.R.
School Librarian
The collection skillfully weaves together diverse voices, exploring a tapestry of experiences, emotions, and perspectives. Each piece feels like a unique journey, transporting readers to different moments and places. There's a real sense of inclusivity here, offering something for every girl to connect with. Complementing the poems are stunning illustrations that dance across the pages, adding another layer of delightful discovery.
A recommended purchase for school and public libraries serving middle grade readers.
M.R.
School Librarian
January 18, 2024
There is truly something for every girl and woman in this collection. There are poems about women who are great role models, 3 poems about soup, poems that are entire stories, poems about feelings and dreams ... There are poems by some of my favorite poets and multiple poems by girls as young as 8. There was not a single poem here that I did not enjoy.
This book would be great in a school library or as a gift to your favorite girl of any age. The pictures are delightful and enhance the mood of the poetry.
Thanks so much to NetGalley for letting me preview this
This book would be great in a school library or as a gift to your favorite girl of any age. The pictures are delightful and enhance the mood of the poetry.
Thanks so much to NetGalley for letting me preview this
August 28, 2024
Thank you to YABC for the opportunity to read and review this beautiful collection.
"She’ll Be the Sky" by Ella Risbridger is a beautiful collection of poetry by and for women and girls, with illustrations from Anna Shepeta that equal and enhance the messages. This is a great read-a-loud for younger audiences and read-to-self for the target middle grade ages 8-12, but also beyond; my 3-year-old loved it as much as I, and I know my grandmother would have purchased a copy for every woman and girl she knew.
"She’ll Be the Sky" by Ella Risbridger is a beautiful collection of poetry by and for women and girls, with illustrations from Anna Shepeta that equal and enhance the messages. This is a great read-a-loud for younger audiences and read-to-self for the target middle grade ages 8-12, but also beyond; my 3-year-old loved it as much as I, and I know my grandmother would have purchased a copy for every woman and girl she knew.
January 2, 2024
A beautiful book of poetry written by women and girls (and as the introduction explains some non-binary people and anonymous entries) accompanied by beautiful illustrations. I enjoyed that the subject matter seemed to flow with the illustrations. There was a wide selection of poetry forms, lengths, and topics. Beautiful collection!
I received my copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I received my copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
January 3, 2024
A lovely collection of poems written by women.
I did think this would be more focused on women's experiences, but it's more general than that, which is not a bad thing.
I enjoyed the different poems, and I loved the artwork for each one- they really complimented each other to make this beautiful book.
I did think this would be more focused on women's experiences, but it's more general than that, which is not a bad thing.
I enjoyed the different poems, and I loved the artwork for each one- they really complimented each other to make this beautiful book.
April 23, 2024
A beautiful collection of poetry with stunning illustrations. From Maya Angelou to Christina Rosetti to Amanda Gorman, this collection is an anthology that will appeal to both young readers and poetry lovers alike. This would be a beautiful addition to any school library or classroom collection.
February 1, 2024
Loved the illustrations and the poems selected. Beautiful book.
I will definitely be purchasing this to give as a gift to the young girls in my family
I will definitely be purchasing this to give as a gift to the young girls in my family
February 19, 2024
Beautiful poems and beautiful art. Highly recommended.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews