The poetry progresses in complexity of ideas and word craft from Foundation to Grade 6.

Topics vary across a range of issues reflecting back to the reader ordinary aspects and encounters in the world around them. Some poems have uniquely Australian contexts and animals. The 20 Readers in Mr. Meerkat series are divided into learning stages because children progress through cognitive and physiological stages of learning.

Reynolds writes poetry because this form of prose with its melody and rhyme helps children improve their reading skills. “We listen to poetry put to music every day as we listen to the radio or a steaming service”, says Reynolds. “The brain likes words placed with rhythm and rhyme, and so we sing along, remembering what we hear. This basic desire of the brain begins with little children reading and remembering nursery rhymes”.

Reynolds places every word in every poem with purpose to create a mood, stir an emotion or seek a response. Single syllable words and short phrases are used to create speed while compound phrases are used to slow the reading and provoke thoughtfulness. The poet seeks to express his perceptions, experiences and emotions in words that can be understood by children. The poetry was created using the principles of 'how children learn'. There are Teacher’s Companions and Activity Books provide lesson plans and activities which are all based on the latest understandings of language development in children. Online Resources and Recitals are also available.

Language -  English
Publisher - Reynold Learning
Country of Publication – Australia
Size -  A5