“For Best First Collection we chose Hilary Menos’s Berg. We loved its wit, range and strength, the way that each poem is a complete world in itself, and moves you out to strange places. The poems are contemporary, varied and highly imaginative.” — Chair of judges, Ruth Padel

“[Her] poetry is infused with an earthy quality and, frequently, a good dollop of humour … Her poems often take inspiration from everyday objects or events but present them to us in new and surprising guises. This is a compelling and skillfully crafted début”
— PBS Bulletin

“This is grown-up verse, able to take on the world.” — Poetry Review

“She has the rare ability to uncover the wide range of implications of the world we live in, be they emotional, spiritual or literary. Here is a new poet with a full locker of accomplishments. She is sure to make an immediate impact.” — John Stammers