Susan Deborah King was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 1999. The act of writing this collection was an essential part of recovery. In her preface she states: “The process of diagnosis, treatment and recovery and the writing about it was indeed a transformative one, leaving me with an abiding sense of poignancy about our life’s brevity, gratitude for it and joy.”

In her third collection of poems, Susan Deborah King bears witness to a soul’s transformation in the wake of a breast cancer diagnosis and subsequent mastectomy. She is consumed with outrage at the possible systemic causes of her disease. She holds the earth and beloved people close as she contemplates her end. She connects with and feels the suffering of others. In One-Breasted Woman, King offers poems that are utterly alive: vivid with fear, heightened awareness, anger, tenderness, sorrow, playfulness, and even joy.


Every 1.9 minutes a woman is diagnosed with breast cancer, and every 13 minutes someone dies from it. Those that have support from family and friends and others who share the same fear are 60% more likely to recover. Supported in part by the George Family Foundation, whose mission is to foster wholeness in body, mind and spirit in order to enhance the fulfillment of human potential, One-Breasted Woman offers an honest, intelligent, and ultimately life affirming response to anyone who faces a terrifying illness.

“In her third book of poems, the Presbyterian minister, psychotherapist and teacher faces her breast cancer with courage and eloquence, outrage and wit. There is solace in this poet's brave, graceful poems, full of the dignity needed to carry one through the struggle from diagnosis through treatment.”—Star Tribune

“Into this new age, when more of us are learning to live with the epidemic of cancer in our world, comes a moving and musical collection of poetry that will, I am sure, save lives. From the very first words of Susan Deborah King’s One-Breasted Woman, I knew I was in good hands; it’s all about feeling less lonely in our challenges, paying attention to suffering, and finding the courage to be afraid. Even in the darkest moments, there is a joyous energy here that transcends fear, disengagement, brokenness and death. My list of friends for whom I know this book will become both a necessity and a blessing, grows longer every day.”—Judith Guest

“What a gift these poems are to both one-breasted women and others! It is filled with reminders that we are not alone; a poem like ‘Twinges’ rocked me with recognition and comfort. All through the volume, comfort and recognition. Thank you, sister.”—Lucille Clifton


Susan Deborah King taught writing at the University of Minnesota, SASE, and the Loft. Formerly a Presbyterian minister andpsychotherapist, she leads retreats on creativity and spirituality. She is founding director of the Literary Witnesses Reading Series at Plymouth Congregational Church. She has published two previous poetry books: Covenand Tabernacle: Poems of an Island. Published by Holy Cow! Press: September 15, 2007 Poetry, 136 pages, 978-09779458-2-5, Paper $15.95
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