''A firework display of technique, versatility and passion.'' Independent on Sunday

''The crafted sincerity of this potent, lyrical collection, in which an absolutely contemporary voice concisely expresses common concerns, is everything that poetry should be.'' Times Literary Supplement

''The first poet of serious artistic intent since Philip Larkin to have achieved popularity . . . it is possible that he will attain the sort of proverbial status Larkin now occupies.'' Sean O''Brien, The Deregulated Muse