poyums annaw

By: Len Pennie

Narrated by: Len Pennie

There isn't a timescale for how you should heal
Your bad days are valid, your heartache is real
But so is the day that your smile will return
That fire within you continues to burn
You will overcome this and continue to thrive
You are here, you are loved, you are whole, you're alive.

A formidable follow up to her award-winning debut poetry collection, Len Pennie’s poyums annaw is just like her: defiant, angry and trailblazing. These poems are a call to arms, confronting ideas of patriarchy, gender-based violence and societal injustice with equal parts tenderness, quick-wit and righteous fury. poyums annaw firmly cements Len as a defining voice in contemporary Scots poetry.

©2025 Len Pennie (P)2025 Canongate Books Ltd

Critic reviews

Praise for Poyums:

'A poet who redefines what poetry is and who it is for' (LEMN SISSAY)

'The keeper and reinventor of the Scots language in the 21st century' (IAN MCMILLAN)

'I adore Lennie's poetry' (NIGELLA LAWSON)

'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)

'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)

Love Len

I'm not a poetry person at all. But Len always delivers astounding works. It really resonates with me and the times we live in. I like the audio books because hearing her speak her truths with full emotions and near tears is so moving and you just feel it. I recommend Len to everyone and I'm definitely going to get both books in physical form. Love you Len, wishing you success, healing, and happiness.

Such raw emotions

I've really enjoyed listening to this Poyums sequel called Poyums aninnaw. such an honor to see the growth from scots word of the day to fully published author. This second book is just as well written as the first and I absolutely can't choose a favorite neither in writing nor narration. thank you for such raw and real books. I'm inspired to start writing again myself thanks to you. can't wait to hear more of what you have to say in the next one!