Michael Rosen, the British children’s author, poet, and professor of children’s literature, remains a prominent figure in both literary and online circles. Born on 7 May 1946 in Harrow, Middlesex, he has built a career spanning decades, producing more than 200 books for children and adults. Questions about his age, his health, and his ongoing activity continue to surface, particularly after his widely reported COVID-19 hospitalization in 2020.
Rosen’s influence extends beyond the printed page. He served as Children’s Laureate from 2007 to 2009 and currently holds the position of Professor of Children’s Literature at Goldsmiths, University of London. His work in making poetry accessible to young audiences has earned him a lasting place in classrooms and homes across the United Kingdom and beyond.
In recent years, a new generation has discovered Rosen not only through his books but also through his social media presence. The ‘Nice’ meme, born from his Twitter activity, has introduced his distinctive voice to audiences who may not have encountered his poetry. This article provides a clear, fact-based overview of who Michael Rosen is, what he has written, and why he remains relevant today.
Is Michael Rosen Still Alive? Age and Biography
Michael Wayne Rosen was born on 7 May 1946 in Harrow, Middlesex, England. He is a British children’s author, poet, broadcaster, performer, activist, and professor of children’s literature. As of 2025, he is alive and continues to write, perform, and post on social media. His survival of a severe COVID-19 infection in 2020 brought renewed public attention to his health and his work.
- Michael Rosen is a beloved children’s author and poet, still active in writing and social media.
- His poem ‘Chocolate Cake’ is a classic in UK primary schools and widely anthologised.
- The ‘Nice’ meme originated from his frequent use of the word on Twitter, often in political or humorous contexts.
- He survived a severe bout of COVID-19 in 2020, which increased public interest in his health and resilience.
- He has written more than 200 books for children and adults across his career.
- He served as Children’s Laureate from 2007 to 2009, a role that recognises outstanding contribution to children’s literature.
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Michael Wayne Rosen |
| Born | 7 May 1946, Harrow, England |
| Occupation | Children’s author, poet, presenter, broadcaster, academic |
| Notable Work | ‘Chocolate Cake’ poem, ‘We’re Going on a Bear Hunt’ (as author of original text) |
| Education | Wadham College, Oxford (English); University of Reading (MA); London Metropolitan University (PhD) |
| Current Role | Professor of Children’s Literature at Goldsmiths, University of London |
| Social Media | Twitter @MichaelRosenYes |
| Children’s Laureate | 2007–2009 |
What Are Michael Rosen’s Most Famous Books and Poems?
Rosen has written extensively across poetry, picture books, and non-fiction for young readers. His work is characterised by a playful, rhythmic style that engages children directly. Below is a closer look at his most celebrated titles and poetic works.
‘We’re Going on a Bear Hunt’ and the Picture Books
Published in 1989 with illustrations by Helen Oxenbury, We’re Going on a Bear Hunt is one of Rosen’s best-known books. The story, built around a family’s rhythmic refrain, has become a staple of early years reading. Although Rosen’s original text predates this edition, the 1989 version cemented its status as a classic. Other notable picture books include Little Rabbit Foo Foo and You Can’t Catch Me (1982).
Poetry Collections and the ‘Chocolate Cake’ Poem
Rosen’s poetry collections are widely used in schools. Mustard, Custard, Grumble Belly and Gravy and Michael Rosen’s Book of Nonsense are two of his most popular anthologies. The poem ‘Chocolate Cake’ is among his most famous individual works, regularly recited in classrooms and included in poetry anthologies. It captures a child’s obsessive love for chocolate cake with humour and energy.
‘Michael Rosen’s Sad Book’ and Personal Writing
In 2004, Rosen published Michael Rosen’s Sad Book, a deeply personal work that explores grief following the death of his son Eddie. The book has been praised for its honest and gentle treatment of a difficult subject and is used by parents and educators to help children understand loss.
Other Notable Works
Rosen has also written a children’s biography of Roald Dahl titled Fantastic Mr Dahl, along with numerous other poetry collections and non-fiction books about language and literature. Sources indicate he has written more than 200 books in total, though the exact number varies by edition and format.
For readers new to Rosen’s work, starting with ‘Chocolate Cake’ and We’re Going on a Bear Hunt offers a quick entry into his style. Both are widely available in libraries and online. Michael Rosen’s Sad Book is recommended for older children and adults seeking a thoughtful exploration of grief.
What Is the Michael Rosen ‘Nice’ Meme?
The word ‘Nice’ has become closely associated with Michael Rosen in internet culture. The exclamation originates from his “Hot Food” video, a short performance piece in which Rosen, after describing a meal, exclaims “Nice!” with distinctive enthusiasm. The clip became a popular meme on YouTube and later spread across social media platforms.
How the Meme Developed
Rosen’s regular use of “Nice” on Twitter, often in response to political events or as a one-word commentary, turned the term into a trademark of his online persona. Followers began using it as a shorthand for his distinctive, slightly sarcastic tone. The meme evolved organically, with Rosen himself embracing it by adding “™️” to his tweets, as in “Nice. ™️”.
Connection to His YouTube Channel
The “Hot Food” video is part of Rosen’s Kids’ Poems and Stories With Michael Rosen YouTube channel, where he performs poems and stories for children. The channel has helped introduce his work to a new generation and has been a key vector for the spread of the meme. The combination of his animated delivery and the simple, repeatable word made the clip especially shareable.
The ‘Nice’ meme is tied to Rosen’s “Hot Food” video on his official YouTube channel. The German Wikipedia entry for Michael Rosen explicitly notes the association between the exclamation and his online popularity. The meme is not a single moment but an accumulation of his recurring use of the word across posts and videos.
What Is Michael Rosen Famous For?
Michael Rosen’s fame rests on several pillars: his children’s poetry and picture books, his role as a broadcaster and performer, his academic work as a professor of children’s literature, and his unexpected second life as an internet meme. Each of these dimensions has contributed to a public profile that spans generations.
His literary work is characterised by a conversational, rhythmic style that invites participation. He has been a major advocate for making poetry accessible to children through school visits, radio programmes, and university teaching. His Children’s Laureate term from 2007 to 2009 recognised his impact on the field.
Rosen’s current role as Professor of Children’s Literature at Goldsmiths, University of London places him at the intersection of practice and scholarship. He continues to write, perform, and engage with audiences both in person and online. His Twitter account, @MichaelRosenYes, is active and widely followed.
Rosen’s influence is not limited to one medium. He appears regularly on BBC Radio 4, contributes to the Guardian, and maintains an active YouTube channel. His COVID-19 survival story in 2020 added a layer of public sympathy and interest, making his ongoing activity all the more notable. The Poetry Foundation lists him among significant contemporary poets for children.
What Are the Key Milestones in Michael Rosen’s Life and Career?
- 1946 – Born in Harrow, Middlesex, England. Wikipedia records his birth date as 7 May 1946.
- 1970s – Began writing children’s books and poetry, establishing his voice in the genre.
- 1989 – Published We’re Going on a Bear Hunt with illustrations by Helen Oxenbury, which became an iconic picture book.
- 1990s – Became a regular presenter on BBC radio and television, broadening his audience.
- 2000s – Appointed Professor of Children’s Literature at Goldsmiths, University of London, a role he still holds.
- 2007–2009 – Served as Children’s Laureate, an honour that recognises outstanding contribution to children’s literature.
- 2020 – Hospitalised with COVID-19; later recovered and wrote about the experience, drawing widespread public attention.
- 2024–2025 – Active on Twitter, where the ‘Nice’ meme continues to grow; produces new poems and videos for his YouTube channel.
What Is Confirmed and What Remains Unclear About Michael Rosen?
| Established Information | Information That Remains Unclear |
|---|---|
| Michael Rosen is still alive as of 2025. | The exact number of books he has written varies by edition and format. |
| He was born on 7 May 1946 in Harrow, England. | The specific origin of the ‘Nice’ meme phrase evolved organically and is not pinned to a single post. |
| He is a professor at Goldsmiths, University of London. | His future writing plans and projects remain ongoing and are not publicly detailed in advance. |
| He wrote the poem ‘Chocolate Cake’ and the book ‘We’re Going on a Bear Hunt’. | — |
| He uses the term ‘Nice’ frequently on Twitter, often with a trademark symbol. | — |
What Is the Significance of Michael Rosen’s Work in Children’s Literature?
Rosen’s contribution to children’s literature goes beyond the number of books he has written. He has been instrumental in making poetry a living, oral art form for young people. His performances, whether on stage, on radio, or on YouTube, treat children as intelligent participants rather than passive listeners. This approach has influenced a generation of educators and writers. For more on figures who shaped children’s poetry, see Famous Children’s Poets.
His academic role at Goldsmiths allows him to shape the next generation of children’s literature scholars. His advocacy for the importance of poetry in early education is backed by decades of practical experience in schools. The BookTrust describes him as a major advocate for making poetry accessible to children through schools, performance, radio, and university teaching.
The meme culture that has grown around his online presence is a separate but related phenomenon. It has introduced his work to audiences who might not otherwise encounter children’s poetry, creating a bridge between literary culture and internet humour. His resilience after COVID-19 has also made him a symbol of perseverance, adding a human dimension to his public profile.
Where Can You Find Authoritative Information About Michael Rosen?
Reliable information about Michael Rosen is available from several authoritative sources. His official website includes a biography, book list, blog, and video gallery. The Wikipedia entry provides a neutral, encyclopedic overview with citations. His YouTube channel features performances and readings. His Twitter account is verified and active. The Goldsmiths staff profile confirms his academic role.
“Nice. ™️”
— Michael Rosen (Twitter)
“Rosen is a frequent contributor to the Guardian and a regular broadcaster on BBC Radio 4.”
— Wikipedia
“I am Professor of Children’s Literature at Goldsmiths, University of London.”
— Official website, michaelrosen.co.uk
What Is the Full Picture of Michael Rosen’s Life and Legacy?
Michael Rosen is a British children’s author, poet, broadcaster, performer, activist, and academic whose work has touched millions of readers and viewers. He is alive and active as of 2025, writing, teaching, and posting on social media. His most famous poem, ‘Chocolate Cake’, and his most famous book, We’re Going on a Bear Hunt, remain staples of children’s literature. The ‘Nice’ meme has given him a second life in internet culture, while his survival of COVID-19 has added a layer of personal resilience to his public story. For a broader look at enduring titles, visit Popular Children’s Books.
Frequently Asked Questions About Michael Rosen
What is Michael Rosen’s most famous book?
He is best known for We’re Going on a Bear Hunt (illustrated by Helen Oxenbury) and his poetry collections, particularly those featuring the ‘Chocolate Cake’ poem.
Why does Michael Rosen say ‘Nice’ so much?
It is a trademark of his Twitter persona, often used sarcastically or to express approval. The exclamation became a meme after his “Hot Food” video on YouTube.
Did Michael Rosen survive COVID-19?
Yes, he was hospitalised in 2020 but recovered and later wrote about the experience. His survival drew widespread public attention and sympathy.
How many children does Michael Rosen have?
He has three children from his marriages. His son Eddie, whose death inspired Michael Rosen’s Sad Book, passed away in 1999.
What awards has Michael Rosen won?
He has received numerous awards, including the Eleanor Farjeon Award for services to children’s literature and the Children’s Laureate appointment (2007–2009).
What is Michael Rosen’s Twitter handle?
His verified Twitter account is @MichaelRosenYes, where he posts regularly on politics, literature, and daily life, often using the word ‘Nice’.
What is Michael Rosen’s educational background?
He studied English at Wadham College, Oxford, earned an MA in Children’s Literature from the University of Reading, and a PhD from London Metropolitan University.
How many books has Michael Rosen written?
Sources say he has written more than 200 books for children and adults, though the exact number varies by edition and format.
Is Michael Rosen still active as a professor?
Yes, he is Professor of Children’s Literature at Goldsmiths, University of London, and continues to teach, write, and perform.
What is the Michael Rosen ‘Nice’ meme?
It is a meme originating from his “Hot Food” video and his frequent use of the word ‘Nice’ on Twitter, often with a trademark symbol. It became a symbol of his online persona.
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Kieran Doherty covers Westminster, councils, public policy and political affairs across the United Kingdom.