When Anisa Haghdadi launched Poetry Jam in Birmingham 5 years ago, she had no idea of the almost legendary status the monthly event would achieve in the city, and the massive crowds it would draw. A free open mic only night where anyone can come and read to the crowd and be sure of a warm and enthusiastic reception, Poetry Jam has been an essential element in the production a whole generation of poets on the Birmingham scene.

This anthology pulls poems from Poetry Jam regulars old and new to form a snapshot of poetry in the city that is exhilarating and exciting. Name local poets such as Jasmine Gardosi, Nafeesa Hamid and Amerah Saleh rub shoulders with incredible emerging poets from the scene. The book also features poems contributed by Polarbear himself (his first spoken word poem to reach the page) and the wonderful Deanna Rodger. Steven and Deanna have been heavily involved in promoting and improving poetry in the city.

The book launched at Poetry Jam’s 5th Birthday celebration event which took place at Birmingham Town Hall on Feb 8 2018. All profits from the book will go towards securing the future of Poetry Jam as a ‘free open mic night for all’ well into the future.