A #2 Sunday Times bestseller and Scots Book of the Year 2024.

And I have done more than just simply get by
So much more than escape or survive
Through the galvanisation of love, time and patience
I’ll take hold of my story and thrive.
After life that was seldom what life ought to be
Through laughter and love I’ll be whole
This story is mine from the cover to spine
And the narrative I will control

Whether she’s writing letters to her younger self, advocating for women’s rights or adapting fairy tales to process an abusive relationship, Len’s voice is bold, unashamedly frank and unmistakably hers.

The poems in this collection, both funny and fiercely feminist, announce a formidable new talent. Moving deftly between English and Scots, poyums is as approachable as it is affecting.

Praise for Len Pennie and poyums:

“Len Pennie speaks through poems from her heart. She speaks to us, to our hearts. She haunts and hunts us. She kisses then dismisses us. We are drawn to her boldness and vulnerability. Her spirit draws us towards her through words. She looks us right in the eyes. What a privilege it is to read the words of a poet who redefines what poetry is and who it is for! Len Pennie is a born writer.” -Lemn Sissay.

“The keeper and reinventor of the Scots language in the 21^st century.” -Ian McMillan.

“This intense and remarkable collection now marks her out as a poetic voice to be reckoned with – strong, tested, skilful, driven, and facing firmly towards the future.” –The Scotsman.

“I think Lennie is brilliant. She has such talent and passion and joy.” -Michael Sheen.

“An unforgettable voice that takes on the power of English and Scots and lingers in the spaces in-between. These poyums made me wince, laugh, and marvel. “-Susie Dent, author and lexicographer.

“This is poetry that channels rage, writ from the heart and burning incandescent, it lights up hope for every generation.” -Lesley Benzie, poet.

“Poyums by Len Pennie is a wonderful debut, these poems are packed with courage and truth and fierce fire, I found vulnerability and tenderness shared here and also brutal honesty, this book is a bold and beautiful rallying cry.” -Salena Godden, poet and author.

“I adore Lennie’s poetry.” -Nigella Lawson.

“Beautiful poetry and her language is just spectacular” -Janey Godley.

“Lively and honest, accessible and full of spirit, Len Pennie has a way of cutting direct to the heart of the matter, of saying what should be said, in the way it should be said, that is central to poetry.” -Josie Giles, poet and author of Deep Wheel Orcadia.

“Len Pennie shares hersel, hert and soul, in this brilliant collection. Stunningly honest, vivid and skilled, her poyums bleeze wi passion, power and beauty, skinkle wi beautiful gems of language.” -Anne Donovan, author of Buddha Da and Being Emily.

Find poyums at Amazon.