THE SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLER
‘An intoxicating mixture of poetry and prose, Slug is a taboo-busting delight’ SCOTSMAN
‘One of the best poets we have’ MATT HAIG
‘She writes with honesty, conviction, humour and love’ KAE TEMPEST
The bestselling collection of poetry and prose from the Ted Hughes Award-winning author of Nobody Told Me
From Finnish saunas and soppy otters to grief, grandparents and Kellogg’s anti-masturbation pants, Slug is a book which holds a mirror lovingly up to the world, past and present, through Hollie’s driving, funny, hopeful poetry and prose. Slug is about the human condition: of birth and death and how we manage the possibilities in between.
‘The inimitable words of poet/goddess Hollie McNish once again hold up honest, damn funny and refreshing takes on the everydayness of our lives . . . Never have we needed her more’ STYLIST
‘Hollie always articulates exactly how I feel’ CHARLY COX
‘A tribute to life itself’ RED
Dive into the raw, honest, and often hilarious world of Hollie McNish with *Slug*, a *Sunday Times* bestseller and a captivating collection of poetry and prose that fearlessly explores the human condition. Winner of the prestigious Ted Hughes Award for her previous work, *Nobody Told Me*, McNish returns with a collection that is both deeply personal and universally relatable. *Slug* isn't just another poetry book; it's a mirror reflecting the complexities of life from the mundane to the profound. McNish tackles everything from Finnish saunas and the simple joy of otters to the heavy weights of grief, the warmth of grandparents, and even the absurdity of vintage Kellogg's anti-masturbation pants. Her writing style is instantly recognizable: a blend of unflinching honesty, razor-sharp wit, and a profound sense of empathy. This collection delves into the messy realities of birth, death, and everything in between. McNish's unique voice resonates with readers who crave authenticity and a refreshing perspective on the everyday. Her words are a balm for the soul, offering comfort and connection in a world that often feels isolating. Critics and readers alike have praised her ability to articulate the unspoken, to give voice to the feelings and experiences that many struggle to express. Explore themes of womanhood, motherhood, relationships, and societal expectations through McNish's distinctive lens. Her work transcends traditional poetry, seamlessly blending prose and verse to create a reading experience that is both engaging and thought-provoking. *Slug* is more than just a book; it's a conversation starter, a source of solace, and a celebration of the human spirit. This paperback edition, published by Fleet in 2022, contains 496 pages of McNish's compelling and insightful observations. Weighing in at 380g, it's the perfect companion for quiet evenings, long journeys, or moments when you need a dose of honesty and humor. Whether you're a long-time fan of Hollie McNish or a newcomer to her work, *Slug* is a must-read for anyone seeking poetry that is both deeply moving and refreshingly real. As *Stylist* aptly put it, "Never have we needed her more." Join the chorus of voices praising McNish as a vital and essential voice in contemporary literature. This collection is a tribute to life itself, offering a glimpse into the beauty and absurdity of the human experience, all filtered through the inimitable voice of Hollie McNish. Charly Cox claims "Hollie always articulates exactly how I feel", and RED calls the book "a tribute to life itself". Dive in to find out for yourself!