Good Bones

by Maggie Smith
Good Bones cover
Good Books rating 4.17
Poetry
Technical:
  • ID: 756
  • Added: 2025-09-19
  • Updated: 2025-09-19
  • ISBN: 9781946482082
  • Publisher: Tupelo Press
  • Published: 2017-10-01
  • Reviews: 3

In 'Good Bones,' Maggie Smith draws inspiration from her own experiences as a mother, observing her children navigate the world with wide-eyed curiosity. Her poems delve into the duality of darkness and possibility, offering a profound reflection on the human condition. Smith's work is marked by a deep sense of moral weight and personal urgency, addressing themes that resonate far beyond the confines of her own life. These poems are not just personal narratives but also a commentary on the larger world, capturing the essence of hope and resilience in the face of adversity. Smith's writing is both intimate and universal, making 'Good Bones' a collection that speaks to the heart of what it means to be human.

Reviews
Los Angeles Review of Books · Sarah Appleton · 2025-09-19
heartfelt 4.50

The poetry collection is praised for its honest and relatable exploration of motherhood and life's complexities. The reviewer appreciates the depth and accessibility of Smith's language.

Sarah Appleton delves into Maggie Smith's 'Good Bones,' highlighting the collection's raw and authentic portrayal of motherhood. They particularly admire how Smith's language is both profound and approachable, making the poems resonate deeply with readers. The reviewer notes that Smith's work doesn't shy away from the harsh realities of life but presents them in a way that feels tender and human. This collection is seen as a powerful reflection on the intricacies of modern life and the universal experiences that bind us all.

Quick quotes

    Smith's poems help her 'discover with real surprise now frequently exhausted human touchstones.'

    The truth of these poems flies out of the honesty and realness of Smith's experiences.

    Smith's language is richly accurate, deep and yet readable as if it were our own.

Head Butler · 2020-07-26
uplifting 4.00

The collection is noted for its timeless relevance, with poems that resonate deeply during times of tragedy and uncertainty.

Head Butler's review of 'Good Bones' highlights the collection's enduring relevance, especially in times of crisis. They note that Smith's poems have a way of finding new readers with each new tragedy, offering comfort and insight. The reviewer appreciates how Smith's work captures the essence of human resilience and the search for meaning in a troubled world. This collection is seen as a beacon of hope and understanding, making it a valuable read for anyone seeking solace in poetry.

Quick quotes

    With each new tragedy, 'Good Bones' finds new readers.

    I can tell something bad is happening in the world when my poem is surging.

    Smith's work captures the essence of human resilience and the search for meaning in a troubled world.

Michigan Quarterly Review · 2017-10-01
insightful 4.00

The reviewer finds Smith's poetry to be deeply honest and evocative, with a rich and accessible language that captures universal emotions.

The Michigan Quarterly Review offers a poignant analysis of 'Good Bones,' emphasizing the collection's honesty and emotional depth. They appreciate how Smith's poetry captures the essence of human experiences, making them feel both personal and universal. The reviewer notes that Smith's language is not only rich but also accessible, allowing readers to connect deeply with the poems. This collection is seen as a testament to Smith's ability to convey complex emotions with simplicity and grace.

Quick quotes

    The truth of these poems flies out of the honesty and realness of Smith's experiences.

    Her language richly accurate, deep and yet readable as if it were our own.

    Smith's poems help her 'discover with real surprise now frequently exhausted human touchstones.'

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