Poetry Books I’m Reading This December: Inspiration for Writers & Creatives
- Kaecey McCormick
- 16 hours ago
- 2 min read
December always feels like a whirlwind. Between the winter holidays, family gatherings, and the end-of-year rush, the days blur faster than I’d like.
Honestly, sometimes it feels like a victory just to read a single poem before bed.
That’s why this month, instead of individual collections, I’m turning to anthologies. They let me sample many poets’ voices in one place—perfect for when I want inspiration but don’t always have long stretches of reading time.
Now, I’ll admit—these aren’t exactly warm, twinkle-lights-and-sugar-cookies kinds of books. But maybe that’s the point...
Poetry isn’t only about comfort. It’s also about courage, honesty, and staying open to the unexpected. And for me, that’s a lesson worth carrying into the holiday season.
Here are the two anthologies instead of poetry books I’m reading for inspiration this December:
(1) Courage and honesty in every line: Courage: Daring Poems for Gutsy Girls
Edited by Karen Finneyfrock, Rachel McKibbens, and Mindy Nettifee, this anthology gathers poems that celebrate bravery in all its forms.
From small daily acts to life-changing leaps, the voices in this book encourage readers—especially young women—to face the world with boldness.
What I love most is that the collection doesn’t define courage in just one way. Sometimes it’s loud, sometimes quiet; sometimes it’s about speaking up, and sometimes about simply standing steady.
During a month that often feels overwhelming, these poems are reminding me that courage can take many shapes—and that it often shows up in the moments we least expect.
(2) A spectrum of emotion: I Just Hope It’s Lethal: Poems of Sadness, Madness, & Joy
Edited by Liz Rosenberg and Deena November, this anthology doesn’t shy away from the harder emotions.
It moves through grief, longing, humor, and hope—sometimes all in the same breath.
As Kirkus described it, the poems “show the kaleidoscope of adolescent feeling,” but honestly, I think anyone can find themselves in these pages.
While reading, I’ve been struck by how the collection balances raw honesty with unexpected joy.
It’s not cozy, exactly, but it’s real. And sometimes, that’s what poetry does best—gives us language for the things we don’t always know how to say.
What poetry books are you reading for inspiration this month?
December doesn’t leave much extra time, which is why I’m grateful for anthologies like these. Even if I only have a few minutes, I can still encounter new voices, discover fresh images, and let poetry remind me to pay attention.
Whether you’re curled up with an anthology, returning to an old favorite, or simply reading one poem at a time, I’d love to hear what’s keeping you inspired this season. Drop a note in the comments or send me a messaage.
Wishing you a season of light, peace, and plenty of poetry—however it finds you.
Happy holidays and happy reading!
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