Why I Am Not a Bus Driver

by Ashley Hickson-Lovence

Why I Am Not a Bus Driver is a moving and musical debut collection exploring grief, love and the power of community, from the author of The 392, Your Show and Wild East (Mal Peet Award, Carnegie Medal for Writing Nomination). The heart of this book beats in sync with that of the poet's late grandfather, as, sonnet after unconventional sonnet, Hickson-Lovence uncovers the micro-histories woven into the streets and journeys that shape us. These poems speak with Frank O'Hara, in their stream-of-consciousness lyricism, in meditations that dance like winding roads, both immediate and nostalgic. Committed to honouring the authentic and everyday, the real and true, human connection is the destination in this stirring collection, and every reader has a priority seat.

Genres: Poetry

102 pages, Hardcover

Published April 24, 2025

About the author

Ashley Hickson-Lovence was born in London in 1991 and is a former secondary school English teacher with a PhD in Creative and Critical Writing from the University of East Anglia. His debut novel, The 392, was released in April 2019 and his second novel, Your Show, was released in April 2022. His third book, a YA-in-verse called Wild East, is released with Penguin in May 2024.

Reviews

[Jeremy Carter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read the entire book in less than an hour on the train. It’s wonderful, personal, humorous and emotional. Pure genius.

[Bukola Akinyemi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Why I Am Not a Bus Driver
Ashley Hickson-Lovence

Through a series of unconventional sonnets, Ashley weaves heartfelt words with images of his grandfather, creating a powerful emotional resonance. His writing invites readers to immerse themselves in the narrative, and I couldn’t help but feel as though this story was my own family’s tale.

Poetry lover or not, everyone needs to read this collection. It is so beautifully written and touching, you should experience it.

Ashley poured out his heart on the pages of this book, allowing readers process their own thoughts and emotions.

[Rob Cook · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very personal collection of poems that come in very different forms but are immensely readable.

[Tracy Stephens · Rating 3 out of 5]

I wanted to love it but poetry just really isn't my cup of tea. nothing to do with the author just not my thing. read for book group. quick and easy. if poetry is for you give this a go.

[Gretel · Rating 5 out of 5]

An absolute gem.