This is the first volume of NEW poetry I have read it quite a few years but I have to say I am pleased to have rather belately discovered the work of Carol Ann Duffy. It was accidental, I was looking for something by Simon Armitage at my local library and couldn't find any so took Feminine Gospels: Poems home instead!

The book explores the state of womanhood (a subject close to my heart, you know - being one!) Carol Ann Duffy considers her topic in many contexts eg. historical, modern world and fantasy. Also, she interprets her topic from different perspectives eg. emotionally, physically and spiritually.

I particularly enjoyed "Work", "The Diet", "The Woman Who Shopped" and "Beautiful" - as you can see from these titles, she takes on the stereotypical view but then bends it into unexpected, unusual, fantastic and often humourous directions.

In summary, I found the collection accessible, entertaining, and amusing, I'd recommend it - even to people who think they don't or won't like poetry.