By: Jay Feldman
“Poetry is the language of the soul,” says Kayla Miller, an award-winning poet whose debut collection, Things My Mother Never Taught Me, has resonated deeply with readers. For Miller, poetry is more than just art—it’s therapy. It allows her to process life’s challenging moments and emerge stronger. Released in February 2023, her collection explores grief, resilience, and the unyielding human spirit, offering readers a path to healing and connection.
Miller’s journey to literary acclaim is defined by passion and perseverance. She grew up in a small Alabama town and turned to books for solace. “Books were my escape,” she recalls. “They sparked my dream of writing my own.” That dream led her to a university near Atlanta, Georgia, where she earned a B.A. in English and refined her writing. During this time, she learned to turn raw emotion into powerful poetry.
Initially, writing was a private outlet for Miller to process her struggles. “I started writing as therapy,” she explains. “These poems chart my journey to self-discovery. Through writing, I found strength even in my darkest moments.” As she began sharing her work, Miller realized her poetry had the power to heal others, eventually leading to the creation of her debut collection.
Things My Mother Never Taught Me doesn’t shy away from life’s darker themes. It explores grief, assault, poverty, redemption, and love, with Miller capturing emotions many struggle to express. Her poetry invites readers to confront their vulnerabilities and find comfort in shared pain and healing.
One standout poem, “I Pack My Grief in a Box,” earned Miller an International Impact Award for its powerful portrayal of loss. “I wanted to convey how grief feels like something you physically carry,” Miller shares. This poem exemplifies her work’s raw honesty and emotional depth.
In November 2023, Miller was honored with the International Impact Book Award for Outstanding Work of Poetry. This prestigious accolade solidifies her place among today’s celebrated poets. The recognition highlights the depth of her work and the powerful connection she creates with her readers.
Critics and fans praise Miller’s authenticity. One reviewer described her poetry as “a courageous exploration of themes many shy away from.” Readers echo this sentiment, sharing how her work has inspired them to confront their struggles. Miller’s ability to connect with her audience stems from her willingness to bare her soul. “I’ve faced challenges, but they’ve shaped me and my writing,” she says. “Authenticity is my goal.”
Her writing style is striking for its vulnerability. She explores pain, love, and healing with refreshing candor. “Sharing our stories creates space for healing—not just for ourselves but for others,” she says. Through her poetry, Miller offers strength to those grappling with their own challenges.
Looking ahead, Miller is working on her next project—a collection of essays, poems, and short stories slated for 2026. This work will expand on themes from Things My Mother Never Taught Me and dive deeper into her journey. “I want to keep pushing myself as a writer,” she says.
Miller’s work reminds us that even in our darkest times, beauty exists in vulnerability, and strength comes from sharing our truths. Through her words, she invites us to embrace our stories and find resilience in adversity. To follow her journey and stay updated on her future projects, visit www.kaylamillerwritesbooks.com.
Published by Kaye A.
