I can’t believe I’m actually saying this, but my book of poems (yes poems!), Parodies and Piss Takes, is officially being released today.
Before you shake your head and wonder why I suddenly think I’m a poet, I want to say that I use the term poem extremely loosely simply because I don’t have a better word for it. It’s more of a collection of funny rhymes than deep meaningful poems.
As a freelance writer, I write across a lot of genres of fiction and a lot of clients want stories that follow the genre tropes. Consequently, I’ve found myself learning an awful lot about the tropes of various genres and learning to follow them. Note – they are very limiting when you can’t play with the rules like I do in my own fiction.
Anyway, learning these genres started an idea forming in my head about writing something that gently mocked these “formulas for success”. Isn’t the whole point of creative writing to not follow the rules and make your own path?
This idea grew until one day, I wanted to write a Halloween themed poem and I decided that I would play with the horror tropes – this led to An Ode to The Horror Genre. From there, came the next one, and the next one, and I soon realised I was writing a book without even knowing it.
Every poem (or funny rhyme) you will find in the book is from a genre I have written in either for myself or a client (and yes that includes child rearing from someone with no children). If your favourite genre is covered, I’m sure you’ll recognise the plot points from the rhymes.
Check out An Ode to The Horror Genre and An Ode to The Romance Genre to get an idea of the kinds of things to expect from the book.
And the great news is Parodies and Piss Takes is only 99p – grab it here.
You can read a review of the book by the fab Michelle from Rockin’ Random Mom here. You can also find out how deciding to take the plunge and become a writer changed my life on Mudpie Fridays here, and read more about how I’ve always wanted to be a writer and how the dream became a reality on Cuddle Fairy here.
To say I’m a little nervous about publishing poetry, however loosely I use the term, is an understatement. In fact, I almost didn’t do it. But then I thought of how many times I’ve told people to put themselves out there, to go for it, to feel the fear and do it anyway. And I figured I should practice what I preach.
Parodies and Piss Takes: Back Cover Blurb
A collection of poems that explore the tropes of some of the mainstream genres of fiction in a funny, light hearted way.
Parodies and Piss Takes is a collection of poems that explores the tropes of the major genres of books, TV and movies.
Using rhyming humour, those tropes are gently mocked in this collection of funny poems that will have fans of the genres laughing along as they recognise their favourite characters in the parodies.
Let me know what you think of Parodies and Piss Takes 
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Congratulations Debbie! I loved the book and I know others will enjoy it too:) #anythinggoes
Thank you so much
You’re very welcome! I’m coming back around from #bloggerclubuk
CONGRATUALTIONS!!!! So happy for you, Debbie!
#anythinggoes
Thank you
That is awesome!
Now I just have to start the soul destroying process of marketing it lol!
Awesome, I love a poem. #AnythingGoes
This is brilliant, you must be so proud. Congratulations!
Thank you
I love your writing Debbie, so I know this one will be brilliant xx #bloggerclubuk
Thank you
congratulations, amazing achievement! #bloggerclubuk
Congratulations – what an exciting venture
#BloggerClubUK
Debbie, I read both poems and I LOVE them!! The Halloween & the romance!!! Not blend the two together! HA!:))
#BloggerClubUK
Thank you
Nothing beats a B-list horror movie with a really cheesy love story thrown in haha you’ve got me thinking now!
Congratulations Debbie! Awesome news. #Bloggerclubuk
Thank you
Ahhh I agree with you there – the ‘rules’ of writing can be very frustrating! The Elements of Style by Strunk and White is one of the most infuriating books I have ever read, and almost put me off writing altogether. Almost. I like the sound of this book of poetry though!
#BloggerClubUk
To be honest, I only follow the “rules” if clients specifically request it, otherwise, I put my own slant on them. I think it keeps it way more interesting.
Wow Debbie, that’s amazing – what an achievement. I don’t know how you find enough hours in the day to do all the writing that you do. It’s inspiring. #bloggerclubuk
Thank you
It’s a juggling act mostly lol
Yay Debbie!! Congratulations on the official book launch! It’s amazing to follow your career, you have done so much & have such varied writing talents. I’m excited to see what comes next
Thank you! It’s so much fun playing with different genres
Well done for just going for it. I’m sure it’ll be a great success. #bloggerclubuk
Thank you
How exciting! Must feel amazing to have a book on sale, and I think it’s definitely acceptable to class it as poetry! #BloggerClubUK
Thank you
It really is a great feeling!
This sounds like a lighthearted read for when you need a break from parenting in my case. Humour is the best medicine after all X #bloggersclubuk
Definitely a good read for when you need a break and a laugh! x
Congratulations! You have worked so hard and deserve your success #anythinggoes
Thank you so much
Awesome! I’m in awe of anyone with a talent like yours, let alone having the passion to put it out there as a book. I hope it gets the recognition it deserves!
#anythinggoes
Thank you so much
Congratulations and good luck x #bloggerclubuk
Congratulations! I can’t wait to get stuck in. I’m always looking for things I can dip in and out of
I hope you enjoy it
Congratulations Debbie, well done. I don’t know how you manage to write your own books as well as freelancing and the blog. I am sure this will do really well for you xx
Thanks Clare
Lots and lots of coffee haha! x