She Took The Long Way Home | Poems by Jennifer Bates

I wrote these poems because life rarely goes exactly as we plan, and the unexpected paths are often the ones that matter most.

This collection was born from a lifetime of gathering stories. I have lived in different corners of the world, from New Zealand to Europe and now Western Australia. Along the way, I learned that the journeys we do not plan for are the ones that shape us deeply.

I wanted to write about life as it actually happens. It is messy, full of detours, and rich with second chances. These pages hold the quiet moments in seaside towns and familiar cafes alongside the loud, demanding seasons of heartbreak and healing.

Writing this book taught me to see the value in taking the long way home. I hope it helps you find strength in your own new beginnings and comfort in the unexpected spaces of everyday life.

Sometimes you look around and realize the life you are living looks nothing like the map you drew. You might be rebuilding after a loss, stepping out of a long relationship, or simply wondering what comes next. That uncertain space can feel incredibly lonely.

But getting lost is often the first step toward finding yourself. When you let go of the pressure to arrive on time, you give yourself permission to heal at your own pace. The unexpected turns stop being obstacles and start becoming a vital part of your story.

This book meets you in that messy middle. It offers a quiet reminder that it is perfectly fine to take things one step at a time.

Why this collection belongs on your nightstand

Poetry has a way of putting into words the feelings we struggle to name ourselves. When you read a poem that recognizes your exact season of life, the world feels a little warmer and a little less isolating.

You will find comfort, warmth, and a touch of humour in these pages. It is a book you can pick up on a quiet Sunday morning with a cup of coffee or turn to at the end of a long day when you just need a moment to breathe.

Walking the D.E.T.O.U.R.S. of life

Every poem in this collection explores the common threads that run through a life well lived.

Discoveries

You will find hidden truths in the familiar spaces of everyday life.

Endings

We explore the honest reality of loss and the courage it takes to grieve.

Travels

You will wander through seaside towns, cafes, and faraway places.

Openings

New beginnings offer us the quiet strength to start again.

Understanding

We learn to embrace ourselves exactly as we are right now.

Relationships

We navigate the complex bonds of family, friendship, and love.

Seasons

Every chapter of life holds its own unique value and purpose.

What you will find inside the pages

Modern poetry that speaks honestly about life as it really happens.
Reflections on rebuilding your world after heartbreak.
Stories of travel and the beautiful cultures found across Europe.
Quiet moments of healing and self-discovery.
Encouragement to trust your own unique timing.

A companion for the journey

Honest reflections

The poems tackle life's ups and downs with zero pretense.

Warm recognition

Find your own experiences mirrored in these thoughtful verses.

Gentle inspiration

Draw quiet strength from stories of resilience and new beginnings.

Get your copy of She Took The Long Way Home

$19.95

The complete debut poetry collection.
Original black and white images.
Beautiful colour images.

Read with confidence

If this collection does not speak to you, simply return it within the standard retailer window. I want these poems to bring you comfort. If they do not, there are no hard feelings.

Jennifer Bates

Jennifer Bates is a poet and writer based in Perth, Western Australia. Born in New Zealand, she has called Australia home for most of her adult life. Her career has included owning businesses in both hospitality and airline catering. These varied experiences gave her a deep appreciation for people and their inherent resilience.

She spent sixteen years living in Europe and has travelled extensively. Her writing draws rich inspiration from different cultures, distant places, and everyday moments we often overlook. When she is not writing, she enjoys exploring new destinations, staying fit at the gym, and taking on outdoor adventures.