'Energising, fearless and joyful' - SARA PASCOE

'Hollie has such a wonderful voice. Warm, relatable, smart and funny' - SOPHIE ELLIS-BEXTOR

'Funny, so smart and refreshingly honest' - SARAH MILLICAN

Virgin snow. Virgin mojitos. Virgin mother. Virgin Mary. Virgin: a small six-letter word that holds such incredible power. The power to pressure, judge, harm, praise, profit, punish. But virginity is also just a concept, a label that has been imposed on people for centuries across many cultures worldwide.

In this highly anticipated collection of poetry, Hollie McNish explores the role this word has played in her life and others, with her signature blend of humor, passion, and compassion. Whether considering if Mary was a fan of her nickname, celebrating her annual excitement for ice cream vans, or reflecting on how ridiculously she ate creamy mashed potatoes with her family after apparently 'losing' her virginity, she examines in her unique way the impact this concept has on many minds, and the possibilities of freedom.

At times hilarious, at times harrowing, always hopeful—a poetic love letter against the darker effects of purity culture, filled with stacks of honeycomb, handholds, and early morning light.

Pages: 160, Year of Publication: 0127, Dimensions: 15.6x15.6cm