Book Review: “The Secrets My Skirts Keep”

This book is better than therapy. Claudia Jean narrates the story of a self-proclaimed “love addict.” The poems explore love, sexual freedom, guilt, and co-dependency. The struggle to define herself is palpable and relatable. I could not put this book down. And after reading it two (and a half) times, I finally felt ready to write this review.

Not only are the poems both heartbreaking and hopeful, but the book itself is beautifully put together. With a gorgeous cover, a clever title, and colored photographs throughout, you’ll be blown away by Claudia Jean’s debut poetry collection. Seriously, buy it. It is worth every cent.  My personal favorites were a tie between “Everything I Say Can and Will Be Used Against Me” and “Desperate.”

“The Secrets My Skirts Keep” is rife with trauma and religious guilt. It is unapologetic, full of feminine rage, yet also the gentleness that comes with female energy. If you’re a woman who grew up being told to smile, this book is for you. But truly, anyone who is looking to understand women on a deeper level—I highly recommend picking up a copy of this book. I, for one, would not be the least bit surprised if Claudia Jean becomes one of the greats.

You can find this collection on Amazon