more than these bones is an epic and intercontinental poetry work detailing the author’s journey through heartbreak and self-discovery. The book is rooted in place. Pieces land in multiple settings – the bar, the beach, the bush and sometimes, the bedroom, each location lending itself to another dimension of his story so far. The canopy of this collection stretches seamlessly from chic to ancient, from tender to tough, as Backhouse’s writing offers a vital, polyphonic voice for our times.
Alongside his words are photographs and hand-drawn expressions which speckle the page, every line the tattoo of an echo. more than these bones is filled with a love of flesh, of others, of country and eventually, for self.
Buy a copy of more than these bones here.
Read some great reviews from our Preview readers here:
More Than These Bones is Bebe Backhouse’s debut solo publication and I simply cannot wait for the next! This collection of poetry was so moving I haven’t stopped thinking about it for days. I devoured it in one sitting. The first half had my heart feeling heavy, remembering all too well the intensity and devastation of my first love. Bebe’s style is writing is so raw and poignant that I am certain this will be the first of many books. Alicia, QLD, 5 Stars
More Than These Bones is a wonderful collection of prose by Bebe Backhouse. Raw, poignant, honest and revealing, the array of work in this book is an absolute delight. As a fellow West Australian, it was wonderful to read poems about the beautiful northwest, alongside the pain and heartbreak that Bebe has endured. Karen, WA, 5 Stars
This novel is different to my typical reads, but it is definitely one I’ll cherish and revisit to read my favourite pieces again later. More Than These Bones is beautiful and I’m thankful I had the opportunity to read and enjoy this book. A story about falling in love, heartbreak, growing up and learning to love yourself. Each poem individually is beautiful, paired with illustrations and images or written in shapes that help you feel its meaning. But read together, the poems become a story for the reader to resonate with. While each experience of it is different, love is universal. Despite this book being about Bebe’s own life and journey of love and self, each reader will be able to find some reflection of their own experience in these pages and hopefully cherish this story too. Emma, QLD, 5 Stars
More Than These Bones is a beautifully written reflection about his journey of love, heartbreak, loss & finding oneself. I absolutely love the way Bebe has included symbolic photos, smses written, hand-drawn expressions and the poetry that allows the reader an insight into how he views the world around him. He writes in such a heartfelt manner you can’t help but be drawn into his world, feel his emotions and want to keep turning the pages to discover more about his journey in life. I truly enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more from Bebe Backhouse. Wendy, WA, 5 Stars
In his debut solo writing work, more than these bones, Bebe Backhouse uses poetry to tell the story of his history, experience, love found and lost, and ultimately self-discovery and growth. The writing is raw and personal and deeply reflective. But we are ourselves are drawn into the moment, the time, the place, the emotion by the gentle flow of consciousness. Being an introvert and deep thinker myself, I found it easy to connect and empathise. The message to be true and kind to ourselves and others shines through. I haven’t read poetry for a long time and am encouraged now to read more. The interspersed illustrations, photos and quotes that accompany the poems add extra points of reference and charm. Lesley, QLD, 5 Stars
Raw, introspective and sometimes brutal, Bebe’s words and images are searingly honest as he weaves memories and emotions together to create beautiful imagery and a fragile kind of hope. Alanna, QLD, 5 Stars
more than these bones intimately details love, heartbreak, loss, and identity through his poetry, drawings, and photographs. His words are raw, deeply emotional and powerful. This was an absorbing read, and one I will definitely pick up again. Hayley, VIC, 5 Stars
More Than These Bones is a collection of poetry that includes stories with hand drawings and photography. Its intimacy gives you the feeling of sneaking a read of a diary. Bebe Backhouse takes you on a journey, from the bar, the beach, and even his bedroom, weaving his story between its pages. I loved it, finding myself reading a passage and quietly resting the book on my chest as I absorbed the words and emotions. It’s modern, it’s personal and it resonates. Tess, TAS, 5 Stars
I thoroughly enjoyed More Than These Bones by Bebe Backhouse. I’m not usually into poetry but so glad I made an exception for this book. I especially loved his poems reflecting his nan, her death, and the things he loved about her. He also conveyed the sense of time healing the grief but being sad because he didn’t want the memories to fade. I also loved “Nyalkardi” and how he describes his white skin but also his heart bleeding black blood. In a few simple words, he conveys a complex duality. In conclusion, it is a wonderful book and one that I will revisit many times. Patricia, QLD, 5 Stars
More Than These Bones is an emotion-filled journey that expresses so wondrously his collection of uniquely compiled literary artistry and written reflections that communicate memories past and present while shaping what is yet to come and the future. Fascinating that no stone has been left unturned, and the images accompanying the words go so well together, hand in hand. A pleasure to read and a raw re-tell that is moving and touches hearts along the way, as every page is explored. Always being kept on the edge of your seat and wondering what is ahead is amazing. A masterpiece filled with love and power, such a personal recount and brilliant book. Kylie, QLD, 5 Stars
more than these bones is a stunning, sometimes heartbreaking collection of stories in which Bebe Backhouse utilises verse and mixed media art to share very intimate insights into his life. He doesn’t hold back in sharing stories of love, lust, heartbreak, and grief. I consumed more than these bones in one sitting. A powerful, courageous and brilliant work of art. Joanne, VIC, 5 Stars
A heartfelt collection of beautifully versed poetry that captures one’s heart and doesn’t ever let go. A rewarding read that will fill your mind, body and soul with a rollercoaster of emotions. I loved the addition of the tattoo-style illustrations that are perfectly placed throughout. It will have you reflecting on yourself and your surroundings. A book that I will be re-reading and re-enjoying all over again and again! Samantha, QLD, 5 Stars
This book of poetry was so heartfelt and so heartbreaking that I couldn’t stop reading it and it was an instant page-turner. The drawings and the poetry were perfect compliments to such a beautiful work of art and made me have my form of self-reflection days after reading this lovely book. Daniela, NSW, 5 Stars
More Than These Bones is a profoundly beautiful anthology of poems leading the reader on a journey through the author’s life. The author’s tone conveys feelings of despair, heartbreak, fear, intimacy, love, and hope and I honestly felt every emotion Bebe Backhouse conveyed. Truly exquisite and a book I will return to again and again. The addition of photos and drawings gave a sense of place and depth to what was being conveyed. Highly recommend this magnificent book! Ilona, VIC, 5 Stars
This was my first book of poetry. I am not usually a fan of poetry: I usually find poetry pretentious and too fluffy for my liking. But I really appreciated this poetry. It was genuine, intimate and shockingly honest. Thanks Better Reading for the opportunity to review this book and branch out by trying something new and different. Meg, SA, 4 Stars
A book of poems? Who would have thought? Poetry is not my preferred style for reading, but I was very impressed by the range and style of the many different poems. Many of them are dark, relating life situations that are not always nice, but they all tell a story. It was also good that I could pick up and put down the book many times without losing the thread of the story. My favourite poem is “wind //soar // dope”. It resonated with me on a very personal level. Thank you for the chance to be a little introspective. Well done! Anne, NSW, 4 Stars
Thank you, Bebe, for sharing your journey with me, the reader. A very honest and raw reflection of major influences in your life. I think we can all identify with different elements of your stories, self-worth, love and loss of a loved one. Although not a book I would normally read, it had me reflecting on the challenges of life we all face in one way or another. Ingrid, VIC, 4 Stars
A sensitive collection of poetry, meaningful and raw. Luciana, WA, 4 Stars
Lovely to see a book of poetry featured in Better Reading Preview! And highlighting an up-and-coming Indigenous author’s debut work. Have enjoyed just picking up to read at intervals. Reading more (or any!) poetry is one of my goals for this year, and Bebe’s book has been a great place to start. Anusha, VIC, 4 Stars
I am feeling sad and happy. More Than These Bones is an inspiring book of poetry on love found and love lost. Losing the love of your life might be sad but there is more to life than love lost. Dale, VIC, 4 Stars
When I first received this book and saw that it was poetry, I was a bit dubious as to whether I would enjoy it, as it’s not something I would normally pick up. It took me only a few pages to be captivated by the absolute talent Bebe Backhouse has for putting words together; I was constantly wanting to copy down the quotes to refer to another time; the pages flowed beautifully; it was very raw and personal and beautiful. I feel emotionally richer for having read this book. I feel embarrassed writing a review using my words when his are so eloquent and beautifully put together. I am a new fan. Just stunning. Having lost my mum not so long ago, the references to his mother when she passed away were quite personal. I think if I was someone who was going through a particularly painful breakup, this book would be a comfort, a bit like listening to songs that resonate with your mood. I actually thought quite a few of the pages could easily be put to music. Thanks so much for the opportunity to read this beautiful collection of words, I feel like this book has broadened and opened my mind. Linda, VIC, 4 Stars
I was not sure what I was going to make of More than these Bones by Bebe Backhouse, however, I went into reading it with an open mind, and I’m so glad I did read the book. The book is a collection of the author’s poetry and tells their story through different times and places in their life. The poetry covers a whole array of emotions, and you find yourself seeing snatches of your own life when he is describing some of his experiences. It is very easy to garner empathy for this author from reading his beautifully written words. I would certainly recommend this book. Kelly, VIC, 4 Stars
Bebe Backhouse uses poetry in More Than These Bones to weave a beautiful story of loss, love, grief and self-exploration. I devoured this book in one sitting but am still contemplating the messages it conveyed to me. Sam, ACT, 4 Stars
I enjoyed this book, although I don’t read much poetry and when I do, I dip in, read a poem or two, and then leave it for a while. I found this really readable. I read the whole book and enjoyed it. I liked the way it was printed without capital letters, it made it easy to read and less jarring. A good book that is now on my bedside table to dip into when I feel like it. Gloria, SA, 4 Stars
Such a beautiful yet heartbreaking collection of poems by Bebe Backhouse. This was a really lovely way to spend an evening. I was entranced by his journey of self-reflection, heart break, love, loss, belonging and finding himself through his relationships. The sketches throughout the book added another dimension that I really enjoyed. Highly recommend this collection. Vivienne, VIC, 4 Stars
I really enjoyed this poetry collection! As someone who doesn’t read a lot of poetry, I found it very accessible to read. I found the themes intriguing, and it allowed me to feel I was experiencing a true lifetime. However, as a whole, it was quite long. I also thought the photographs and illustrations added to the reading experience. Overall, I would highly recommend this poetry collection to anyone, whether they are already a poetry lover or if it is a new genre to them. Emily, QLD, 4 Stars
Poetry has always been a love of mine personally, but I never have much time to read it. When the opportunity came up to read More Than These Bones, I was quite excited at the task. When I first picked up this book, I was a bit shocked at how quickly Bebe poured out such raw emotion into his work. As I continued to read on, I actually found myself relating to a lot of what he was writing. Bebe writes predominately of heartache and the pain that comes with it, asking the questions we’re all thinking but are too scared to say out loud. To describe this book, I would say there are many lines that I found brilliant, but they are all surrounded by such sadness, as many poems are. Therefore, I could only read a few pages at a time. This book I would probably recommend to someone going through a breakup or having a hard time in their relationship, just to show they are not alone, and perhaps to speak the words they cannot. Samantha, VIC, 4 Stars
All heart. And while this collection didn’t click for me personally, I am absolutely certain that the force-of-nature queer teens I work with will catch hold of this work with both hands, will see in Backhouse’s words their own thoughts and their fears, their wantings and their hopes, laid out before them on the page. Powerful. Alexandra, NSW, 4 Stars
A heartbreaking and raw insight into the soul, feelings, and journey. The ups and down take you for a ride and open up your perspective on how someone else sees the world. Sarah, QLD, 4 Stars
A beautiful collection of poems that I really enjoyed. I loved the little drawings scattered throughout the book and the photos too. The poems are predominantly about love. Bebe’s way with words is beautiful. Katie, QLD, 4 Stars
When the author starts the book with a beautiful letter and introduction, you prepare yourself for what will be a journey full of emotion and revealing of one’s true self through the things they experienced. The cover picture is exquisite and the photos and drawings throughout really add to the poet’s storytelling and feelings. Some poems I have gone back to reread as they are beautiful. Sharnee, QLD, 4 Stars
Wow! What a powerful set of poems and thoughts captured in one book by a beautiful mind. This is why I love Preview reads, as this isn’t a book I would have considered. I see poems as a dated media that we all studied at school and rarely picked up again, but thank you for showing this modern and relevant take. The poems follow love and loss as a young adult navigating life and finding a place in the world. This is the debut of Bebe Backhouse but I predict more powerful works will follow. Crystal, TAS, 4 Stars
If you’re looking for a masterpiece of emotion, then More Than These Bones is exactly what you need. It tells a powerful story about heartbreaks, self-discovery and living life to the fullest. From bars and bedrooms to beaches and even bushland, this collection spans lots of different places while also connecting with ancient cultures along the way. Then, there are all the gorgeous photos, drawings and thoughtful words that fill every page. In all, More Than These Bones is full of love – for life and for yourself. Kerrie, NSW, 3 Stars
As with all (or maybe most) poetry works, the collection is a tour through the author’s life experiences to date. The settings vary and support your understanding of the author’s relationships, identity, personality, and experience. The work includes doodles, notes, drawings, and photos that enhance your insight into what the author wants to convey. This is an interesting collection told in a style/voice I haven’t encountered before and I am more having read it. Aotea, QLD, 3 Stars
A book filled with struggle between love and pain, Bebe Backhouse writes with passion for others, his beloved lands, and himself. Often eclectic and at times heartbreaking, the words hit home and heart. Photographs and hand-drawn pictures scattered throughout the pages add more of a personal experience. A very different read but interesting from start to finish. Suzie, WA, 3 Stars
I have never thought to sit down and read a whole book of poetry, so when I was lucky enough to score a copy of more than these bones I was excited to expand my reading horizons. I felt the first part of the book felt quite negative. It was uncomfortable reading such raw emotion. I felt a weight on my shoulders taking it all in. Then the writing took a turn and I felt Bebe’s grief and emotions. It was the end of this book that I truly loved. The writing took an empowering turn and I felt uplifted page after page. Even though there is no plot to this book, I was still taken on a journey. One that is real, raw and unapologetic. A very human book. Chloe, VIC, 3 Stars
I really enjoyed reading Bebe’s book of poetry. The poems themselves took me straight back to my youth and brought back a flood of happy and sad memories. There are poems that would relate to anyone’s past, growing up carefree from life experiences to relationships. Ruth-Ann, NSW, 3 Stars
Sadness, grief, love and loss are all themes that seep from the pages and into your heart when you read this collection of short poems from Bebe Backhouse. More Than These Bones is powerful and moving and you can’t help but feel the intense emotions that Bebe has experienced throughout his life. The language is beautiful, although at times dark and upsetting, but there lingers a trail of hope to keep the reader heartened. I love the inclusion of photographs throughout the book that have inspired Bebe, as they helped me to understand him better and made me feel as if I was experiencing his travels and life events alongside him. The use of all lowercase font throughout was effective and added to the overall look and appeal of the book. I am not a huge fan of poetry but found this a welcome change from my usual reads. The passion and love that Backhouse writes with made me reflect upon my life and my relationships with those I love. I recommend this to all lovers of poetry and those seeking some personal reflection. Mary-Jo, VIC, 3 Stars
I was surprised by more than these bones by Bebe Backhouse, as it was a different style of writing to what I’m used to. Very raw, intimate and accurate portrayal of life experiences and loves. Thank you for the opportunity to preview this uniquely intriguing book. Matilda, QLD, 3 Stars
This book is a compilation of short poems and illustrations. These poems are written in the free verse style, not as stanza poems. I am generally not a reader or connoisseur of poetry, although if I did, it would be stanza style. So it’s hard for me to objectively evaluate this book, having really no clue if the poetry is good or not. Personally, I did not find it enjoyable, but that may well be on the reviewer rather than the content. Wendi, VIC, 2 Stars
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