Former New Zealand Poet Laureate Cilla McQueen has produced a cute little collection of poetic novellas that will appeal to her existing fans and also provide a great introduction to her work for new fans.
Originally one of the works McQueen undertook during her time as Poet Laureate, the project titled Serial was published on the official Poet Laureate website.
Now retitled Edwin’s Egg, this eight-chapter series is repackaged as eight individual chapters in separate pocket-sized books, all bundled together in a slipcover.
McQueen describes this work as “exploring a space between prose and poetry” and the end result is accessible and enlightening.
Edwin’s Egg is actually the final chapter in the series and McQueen’s text sits beautifully alongside images from the Alexander Turnbull Library collection.
To be honest, it is hard to fully describe just what this is: a mini novel, a touch of poetry, visual fun and a whole lot of whimsy.
At $40 for a little collection of little books, the price may seem a little steep. However, it’s also a little gem.
Edwin’s Egg and Other Poetic Novellas, by Cilla McQueen (Otago University Press, RRP $40)