Customer Reviews

A New Dish

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I read this author's first book, The Difference Now, a few months ago and really enjoyed it. I saw a rare talent and have recommended the book to several friends. I really enjoyed this second work as well, the poems are not as dark as the first book and are collectively very strong. The author has branched out into new subject areas, and has incorporated a wide selection of rhythm and tone with each poem.

The book has three sections dividing poems of a spiritual tone, relationships, and other subjects. I found the first section very inspirational, and especially liked "Father's Eyes" and "Yes."

The second section has several break out poems, and one in particular that I recall is "Is That All There Is." I loved the story that this one told about two women who contemplate the choices they've made - one into a life of kids and housework, and one into a career. It shows two sides of a coin many other women will probably recognize as something they've dealt with themselves.

The last section has a variety of subject matter, ranging from people at a train station, the act of writing poetry, the thought of having to send your dreams away because you've neglected them for so long, and finally recognizing the patterns of those who've abused or taken advantage of you. I liked the variety here and the voice of a matured writer.

It's not that I don't like poetry but usually when I read something I don't always get it. Or should I say, I don't usually like it and then other people tell me it's because I don't get it. Anyways... this poetry is different. I enjoyed it very much, and found it to be inspiring and genuine.

There's one poem in particular called "Keep Going, Child" that was my personal favorite. As someone that struggled to get pregnant, I also enjoyed "The Test." There's a strong sense of female empowerment in this poetry, but when I gave the book to my husband he also enjoyed it. So I think it's something men or women could enjoy.

This is a delightful book of poetry. The title, "A New Dish," is from the last poem in the collection, where the author explains that words call out to her and beg her to get them onto paper (or put them in a pretty dish) before time passes and the words will be different. It beautifully wraps up this collection.

Much of it is in the moment. There's observational poetry and story telling--how she once got on the wrong car of a train and begrudged the woman who took "her" seat--and vivid description of the world around her. There's an even mixture of angst and strength and many poems expressing love and gratitude. It's a portrait of growth.

Mostly a collection of free verse poetry, I found a few of the more traditional (iambic pentameter) entries ("This is Who I Am") to be particularly strong. Also liked "On Trial" and "Words," and think my favorite was a little lesson called, "Worry."

Worth the read.

From the author of "I'm Living Your Dream Life," and "The Things I Wish I'd Said," McKenna Publishing Group.