A NEW children's poetry book, written and illustrated by two Isle of Wight women, will be launched next week.

'Grown-ups and Other Strange Creatures' is a collection of humorous poems written from the perspective of children from poet Mary Collis, 60, and illustrator Marina Ignarski, 30.

The pair collaborated on the project after meeting through an am-dram play.

Marina, of Shorwell, said: "One of the reasons the book came about was when Mary and I met, we realised we were both on the same wavelength.

"Both of us appreciate the importance of encouraging reading for children, particularly poetry."

Mary, of Ryde, said: "I started writing the book last year to look at the lack of communication that sometimes occurs between grown-ups and children.

"It gave me a twinge of guilt about when I brought up my own children. In fact, when my daughters proof read they book, they said 'oh mum, that's so how you used to be'.

"Reading poetry is something that children must not miss out on."

The duo are hosting a free book launch at Caffe Isola, Newport, next Friday, February 22 from 2pm. There will be poetry readings by special guests, face painting, art and drama games.