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A Poetic Exploration of Identity and Heritage: A Review of Teeth in the Back of My Neck by Monika Radojevic

Teeth in the Back of My Neck by Monika Radojevic is an emotionally charged and thought-provoking collection of poetry that delves into themes of identity, ancestry, and history. Radojevic's unique background as a half-Brazilian, half-Montenegrin woman raised in London adds depth and authenticity to her writing, and her master's degree in Development Studies is evident in the way she skillfully addresses issues of women's rights and gender equality.

One of the standout features of this collection is Radojevic's ability to convey a wide range of emotions, from joy and confusion to sadness and tension. Her writing is evocative and powerful, and she has a knack for finding the right words to convey the depth of her experiences.

In addition to the themes mentioned above, Teeth in the Back of My Neck also explores the idea of home and belonging, as Radojevic grapples with the feeling of having her history scattered across different countries and cultures. Through her poems, she grapples with the question of where she truly belongs, and how this sense of belonging shapes her identity.

One of the most striking aspects of this collection is the way Radojevic uses language to convey the complexities and contradictions of her experiences. Her poems are full of imagery and symbolism, and she has a knack for finding the perfect word or phrase to capture a particular emotion or experience. This attention to language and craft elevates her writing and makes it a pleasure to read.

Teeth in the Back of My Neck is a deeply personal and thought-provoking collection of poetry that explores the intersections of identity, ancestry, and history. Radojevic's writing is emotive and evocative, and her use of language is masterful.

Overall, Teeth in the Back of My Neck is an impressive debut collection that showcases Radojevic's talent as a poet and her ability to tackle complex and nuanced themes with grace and insight. This is a must-read for fans of contemporary poetry and anyone interested in exploring the complexities of identity and heritage.


MONIKA RADOJEVIC is a talented poet and writer with a unique background. Born and raised in London, she is half-Brazilian and half-Montenegrin, and her diverse heritage is reflected in her writing. Radojevic holds a master's degree in Development Studies from the University of London, and has worked in the political sector on issues related to women's rights and gender equality. In 2021, she was selected as one of the inaugural winners of the #Merky Books New Writers' Prize, and her debut collection, Teeth in the Back of My Neck, was chosen as one of Bustle's Best Debut Books of the year. Through her writing, Radojevic explores themes of identity, ancestry, and history, and her emotive and evocative poetry is sure to leave a lasting impression on readers