The Whole Story

by Maggie Bowyer

The Whole Story is an attempt to capture trauma and the changes in our thought patterns as a result. After years of complex trauma one can feel like they are drowning in unrelenting crises. This can lead to an extremely abusive relationship. The Whole Story explores how trauma can intrude on our lives when we are finally safe and happy. Trauma can still interrupt life once it's over. To gain control of this story, life, and our past, we must cling to something, like these words. These words go out into the world with the goal of exemplifying just how tumultuous trauma and healing can be. Most of all, you have to see how worthy you are, and that you deserve to care for and love yourself. We all do.

122 pages, Paperback

Published November 24, 2020

About the author

Maggie Bowyer (they/them/theirs) is a poet, cat parent, and the author of various poetry collections including Allergies (2023) and When I Bleed (2021). They are an essayist focusing on Endometriosis, chronic pain, and trauma. They have been featured in The Abbey Review, Chapter House Journal, The Elevation Review, The South Dakota Review, Wishbone Words, and more. They were the Editor-in-Chief of The Lariat Newspaper, a quarter-finalist in Brave New Voices 2016, and a Marilyn Miller Poet Laureate. You can find their work on Instagram and TikTok @maggie.writes.

Reviews

[Mish McHugh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Maggie's poetry captures the emotions behind the ever-turning power and control wheel, with paralleled literal and figurative language to paint their journey of self-discovery, empowerment, and constant growth. I received The Whole Story and read it within one sitting, pulled into the author's journey and reflecting on my own similar life occurrences - stories I have not been strong enough to share for decades. I immediately lent the book to a friend, whom I know has shared experiences akin to mine - the unique yet similar cycle so many people have emerged from stronger; the push/pull from which so many sadly never surface; the fire from which so many can still arise. Whether you're a survivor looking to reaffirm your self-love, a victim searching for hope, or simply a fan of great writing and poetry compilations that tell a solid story, I highly recommend The Whole Story. Maggie is a powerful writer. I cannot wait to read their next publication.

[Amber Moore · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Whole Story is an incredibly raw and powerful selection of writing on healing and dealing with trauma/abuse. If you are on your healing journey and you feel alone I really recommend picking up Maggie's book. I'm looking forward to seeing more of their beautiful prose in print!