The Fire Never Goes Out by ND Stevenson
Published by Harper, 2020
Rating: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
These slice of life diary entries start out chronicling life as a young artist suddenly propelled to success, but they gradually transition into an honest, relatable look at burnout, exploring your identity, and dealing with mental health issues.
Stevenson’s work has such a charm and warmth to it, and while there’s an endearing vulnerability on show throughout, the themes of gender, sexuality, and mental health are only ever really explored at surface level, due to the nature of the graphic memoir’s structure.
The Appendix by Liam Konemann
Published by 404 Ink, 2021
Rating: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Personal yet self-aware, this is a concise look at life as a trans, gay man in modern Britain. There’s a particular focus on representation within the media, the idea of “passing”, and the difficult road to acceptance and happiness.
Despite the tagline, and the more hopeful conclusion, it’s worth noting this isn’t always a joyous read. Konemann is frank in his portrayal of trans/homophobia, but his articulate, approachable, warm style certainly soften the blow.
Affirming for those who’ve experienced similar prejudice, and enlightening for those who haven’t, this is a great little read, with much to say despite its deceptive page count.
Bless the Daughter Raised by a Voice in Her Head by Warsan Shire
Published by Random House Trade, 2022
Rating: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
A bold, powerful, and unflinching look at race, womanhood, and identity. Shire has a real knack for striking imagery that hits you in the gut, capturing all the beauty and heartache of the immigrant experience, a longing for home, and the perils of navigating the world as a young Black woman.
Between this full-length collection and her previous pamphlet, Teaching My Mother How to Give Birth, Shire is fast becoming one of my favourite poets.
Callum McLaughlin 
These all sound good. I don’t normally read poetry, but Shire intrigues me. And that cover!!
It’s such a great design, isn’t it? It’s well worth checking out if you’re tempted 😊
I heard of The Appendix for the first time via a podcast the other day and I was immediately intrigued. Your review, however, has convinced me that I need to get my hands on a copy ASAP. It sounds brilliant.
I’d had my eye on it for a while and I’m really glad I finally picked it up! I hope you enjoy it too when you get to it 😊
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