The Secret Boat is a collection of poems for younger readers by Dr Mark Macleod, mixing humour and whimsy with quirkyponderings, conundrums, dreams, longings and childlike observations. The poems take the reader from beachside to countryside, from revolting to delicious, from realism to fantasy, and end with a suite of bedtime meditations. Their inclusive values and playful read-aloud language make them perfect for bedtime, the classroom and play, and offer opportunities for young people to learn and to question. Helene Magisson’s meticulous and luminous illustrations enhance the magic with their subtle alternative readings.