Stuff I'm (not) Sorry For

Stuff I’m (Not) Sorry For by Maxine Beneba Clarke is a vibrant poetry collection for young people that turns everyday moments into something worth savouring. With a sharp eye for childhood and teen life, Clarke writes about itchiness and joy, pride and panic, small rebellions and big feelings—capturing the messy, hilarious, tender parts of growing up.

Across 99 poems, she plays with form and sound in ways that keep each page fresh: from sonnets and narrative verse to blackout poems, tongue-twisters and haiku. The scenes feel recognisably Australian, full of schoolyard dramas, family quirks and those tiny memories that stick.

Perfect for readers who love contemporary Australian poetry, verse novels, and books about adolescence, identity and belonging—especially anyone who enjoys dipping in and out rather than reading straight through.

Pick it up for a quick poem, then stay for the ones that hit home.