The debut of youth poet Saskia van der Wiel is vivid and striking

Saskia van der Wiel's debut poetry collection, 'Dat past allemaal in je hoofd', captures the thoughts and feelings of ten-year-olds through relatable themes. The book features a mix of previously published poems and new works, structured into sections that enhance its coherence. Van der Wiel's use of free verse and vivid imagery reflects children's everyday observations, from fears about moving to first crushes. While the poems are accessible and engaging, they remain within traditional boundaries of Dutch children's poetry, lacking a more disruptive or enigmatic quality. The accompanying illustrations by Hendrickje van Dijk complement the text beautifully, adding depth and enhancing the overall experience.