A Visit to William Blake’s Inn: Poems for Innocent and Experienced Travelers (1981)is a whimsical, lyrical collection of poetry by Nancy Willard, inspired by the life and works of visionary poet and artist William Blake. Published in 1981 and beautifully illustrated by the acclaimed duo Alice and Martin Provensen, the book presents an imaginative inn where celestial lions serve breakfast, dragons cook, and Blake himself welcomes guests.
Structured as a series of interconnected poems, the book functions both as a poetic narrative and a tribute to Blake’s blend of mysticism, innocence, and visionary imagination. Willard’s poems echo Blake’s rhythm and imagery while maintaining their own gentle humor and emotional warmth. The result is a richly layered work that delights children with its magic and offers older readers literary and philosophical depth.
The book received widespread acclaim and won both the Newbery Medal (1982) for outstanding contribution to American literature for children and a Caldecott Honor for the Provensens’ luminous illustrations.
