Red Shed acquires Brian Bilston’s 'poetry adventure' A Poem for Every Question

To mark National Poetry Day, Farshore’s non-fiction imprint Red Shed has announced the acquisition of A Poem for Every Question, written by Brian Bilston and illustrated by Joe Berger.

Publishing director Melissa Fairley acquired world all-language rights from Jo Unwin at JULA, and illustration rights were acquired by art director Harriet Rogers from Caroline Walsh at David Higham. Following Unwin’s departure from publishing, Bilston will be represented by Jane Finigan at Lutyens & Rubinstein, and the book will be published on 11th September 2025.

"A Poem for Every Question is a hilarious and thought-provoking, non-fiction adventure in over 100 poems with subjects ranging from science and animals to unicorns, pyramids, technology, and more," the synopsis says. "These questions include: How many stars in the Universe exploded today? Who invented football? Who is the champion weightlifter of the animal world? How did the ancient Egyptians make a mummy? Each fascinating question about the world around us is answered with one of Brian Bilston’s unforgettable, witty and characterful poems. Bilston’s poems are accompanied by an extra non-fiction explainer, filled with facts and written with just as much humour and heart as the poems."

Rogers said: "We’re so excited to have this comedy duo on the Red Shed list. Brian and Joe have created a wonderfully funny, playful, and at times moving, package that will introduce even the most reluctant reader to an array of non-fiction topics."

Farshore editor Elizabeth Crowdy added: "Brian and Joe have created a hilarious, thought-provoking, fascinating dive into a huge range of topics from science to sport to ancient Egypt and animals. I have lost count of the number of times I’ve laughed out loud reading the poems—the perfect way to make non-fiction fun and accessible for kids!"

Bilston commented: "I’ve had so much fun in writing these poems—and learnt a lot along the way. I now consider myself an expert in space travel, the building habits of bees, and dentistry for crocodiles. Joe’s delightful illustrations are the perfect accompaniment to my words. I can’t wait for children to hold this beautiful book in their hands."