Swell

Maria Ferguson articulates the previously unsayable in these radical, tender poems. Swell gives voice to the full complexity of motherhood - the love next to the guilt, the ambivalence next to joy, even the desire to sometimes run away

Kim Moore, author of <i> All The Men I Never Married </i>

Tender, lyrical, a family mise-en-scene, exploring the tiny narratives that write us. These poems are an umbilical, a feeding. Beautiful

Joelle Taylor, author of <i> C+nto </i>

A beautiful, powerful, profound collection of poems. There is an honesty that is both heart-breaking and more hopeful than anything else I've read on this subject. She makes me weep and wonder in equal measure

Hollie McNish

These poems have an energy which is infectious. Reading them will make you feel free and fearless - Ferguson shows us how language can give new meaning to our tenderest moments

Helen Mort

An extraordinary poetry collection. I found each page and turn of phrase unflinching, vivid and honest. Maria Ferguson is a brilliant poet, a dark and wry and witty poet, who always brings a quiet fury and compassion to the page

Salena Godden

A feat. Both creatively and emotionally

Caroline Bird

Wry wit and honesty combine to make Swell a compelling narrative of marriage, pregnancy and motherhood. The world of mother and baby groups and "hashtag self-care" enables a rich vein of comic material, but it is emotional exposure and fragility... that makes Swell such a rewarding collection

David Wheatley, Guardian

I urge you to read this beautiful collection... The writing is eloquent and astute across many thoughts... Ferguson's poems offer a radical and contemporary portrayal of an experience as old as time

Alice Ellerby, Juno Magazine

Moving... if you're after some vivid language, personal honesty and humour, you will enjoy this book

Ruth Aylett, Morning Star