Children's Poetry Review

A Cat Named Fat
by Marie Gebel
ISBN-10: 1420871463
Review by Heather Froeschl



Fed up with morbid nursery rhymes, Marie Gebel tickled her tongue with new poetry for the youngest of people and published it. “A Cat Named Fat” is a delightful book to read aloud to a child, complete with colorful artwork and memorable thoughts.

Kids love rhythm and rhyme yet new poetry for very young children is sometimes hard to come by. Marie Gebel offers such delights as A Cat Named Fat about a feline who grows into his name, and Jack and the Mirror in which young Jack plays and waves to his friend inside…a game almost all babies play. Her poems are based on things a young child knows about, like love, Santa Claus, birthdays, and butterflies, Mom, and the magical moon. These happy poems are sure to make a child laugh and smile. An early exposure to poetry may infect a child’s life, for life, and such a chance is one we all must take.

Simple and sweet, this collection is one that will likely be read over and over again. Even the youngest of listeners will be enticed by the beat of the spoken words and the vivid illustrations. In time, adults will be listening to the same poems being read back to them by kids who have developed a love for verse…all thanks to “A Cat Named Fat” and Marie Gebel of course.

Poetry Review

Ordinary Poems for Extraordinary People
by Marie Gebel
ISBN-10: 059541897X
Review by Heather Froeschl




In verse, through which to speak her mind, Marie Gebel writes to everyone. Her collection of poetry, titled, “Ordinary Poems for Extraordinary People” is said, in her own words, to be for those who are kind, insightful, offbeat, and compassionate. Here you will see yourself and people you know, detailed in poetic style.

I know several teens that would love this book and relate to many of its poems, from Fashion Plate, the very first poem in the book, about being an individual rather than taking on assigned style, to Used to Be, which ruminates with memories of younger days. Yet readers of all ages will adore the works like, Pieces, where a person recognizes the various aspects of being human, and My Mind, in which the most valuable thing to cherish is the mind and not the possessions.

Poetry is often full of deep meanings and open wounds, and this collection has its share. Marie’s subtitle for the book is “An Undressing of the Soul.” It can be argued that it is also a mirror for the soul, since readers will be sure to see themselves within the words. The works are easy to read and understand, but what’s more is that they are easy to feel. The sense of emotions that come through is precisely why I enjoy reading poetry. “Ordinary Poems for Extraordinary People” is a delight.

Poetry Review

Mockingbird Come Home: A Book of Poetry
by Stephen B. Wiley
ISBN: 0-9766251-1-3
Review by Heather Froeschl


“Poetry cannot be made of words alone.” How very true, and being a poet, Stephen B. Wiley offers so much more than words in his wonderful collection, “Mockingbird Come Home.” The pages here are filled with memories and moments, emotions, settings, and paintings artistically created with words.

“Mockingbird Come Home” is what poetry is meant to be. Depicting a moment in time, a place in the heart, he writes of “Where We Live” and “Who We Are,” the two sections of the book. The “where” is about places I know personally, not that it matters, for the settings described in Vermont, Florida, and New Jersey are easily seen with the imagination, helped along with Wiley’s words. From a low-water Lake Champlain to the colorful vibrancy of Key West, the memories of places he shares are more personal than postcards. The “who” is even more endearing, with tales told so eloquently of gnarled and vein mapped hands, the grandparent naps before dinner, and the poet who becomes the poem.

Reading the verses of Stephen B. Wiley is a joy to be compared with spending a day in an art gallery. The admirer will see different aspects of each work of art, perhaps what the artist/poet intended, but maybe something else entirely. The joy is in the discovery. “Mockingbird Come Home” is a poetic delight of excellent work.

Poetry Review

From the Well
By Colleen Avelli
ISBN# 1-4241-8040-6
Review by Heather Froeschl

With poetic voice, sentiments are released and shared, moments of life relived and relayed, and tidbits of time examined and explored. In Colleen Avelli’s poetry collection, “From the Well,” readers are gifted with caches of imagery, treasures of emotion, and quite simply, a delightful, touching tome.

The first section of the collection is perfectly pagan, dealing with nature and moments of legend and lore. With dragons and princesses in towers, knights and minstrels abound, while ancient stones and emotions endure, the poetry trickles as a stream through primeval forest. Magic is woven through settings of old, leaving the reader wishing for simpler moments and for the feel of wildly rough tree bark under the tips of fingers. My favorite in this section is a poem titled; “Celtic Maiden” in which a damsel is so bravely “saved” by a knight who comes to be told that his sword is not needed, for the maiden can clearly take care of herself. Let the fairy games abound! Another portion of the book examines the touchstones of life. From a moment blessed by a butterfly to the pitfalls and trappings of the mind, subjects here vary greatly but are raw emotion and offer a bare naked glimpse at the author’s soul. A son’s haircut, a bit of writing done and disposed of, human connections embraced and ignored, all are topics of poetic verse. In the last section, looking at love and loss, the mirror is held up to show days of unbridled joy and times deep within the well of despair. My favorite in this section is unbearably heart-touching. “Goodnight Daddy” is an embracement of loss and saying goodbye in life’s hardest moment. Relating to this endeavor is something most readers will do, acknowledging what Colleen Avelli is openly sharing is something I do here in reaction. Poets open their souls to the reader of their words; Avelli does so seemingly without hesitation.

An endearing collection of poetry, “From the Well” has something for everyone. Reaching out to the free spirit in all of us, stroking the heart strings, Avelli shares her gift through rhythmic lines of verse. The accompanying illustrations add to the magical feel of the book, lending an ancient quality perfectly fitted to the text. In pure delight, I highly recommend “From the Well.”

Poetry Review

The Passion Runs Through It
by Debra Dietz
ISBN-10: 1424136210
Review by Heather Froeschl
Moments in time are often ignored or forgotten, but reliving them through poetic words can bring them back to life and to the forefront of our minds. This is the gift a poet hopes to give to readers. In "The Passion Runs Through It..." by Deb Dietz, that gift is willingly shared and embraced.

Capturing a feeling and portraying it openly so that others can feel it is a talent few have. Relaying a moment so well that others can say, "I know how that feels; I've done that!" takes a talent that Deb obviously has. Taking everyday images, from ribbons of asphalt to spiral bound notebooks, she opens the eyes of her readers to all that is around them. In magical moments of solitude and moon gazing, and passionate portrayals of love, it is clear that the word can evoke deep feeling. These are not epic poems, but short works of art that reach out to many senses.

Deb Dietz will feel like a friend whom you've shared moments with. My only complaint was that I wish the book were longer...I want more!

Poetry Review

Intrinsic Desires
by Brandon Gene Petit
ISBN-10: 1420891995

Poetic works that pull you in, enticing you to explore the written word, and leaving you momentarily lost in a jungle of metered beats are the sort that are perfection to me. Leave your greeting card verse at the store. A book of poetry worth sinking your mind into is “Intrinsic Desires,” by Brandon Gene Petit.

In a tone that reflects an intricate mind, Brandon offers moments in time, scenes of life, and instances of fundamental feeling. His work is rich with imagery, from twilight skies to lantern lit walls, cobblestone streets and naked, wet trees, all vividly painted before your eyes. His words express fluidly a mixed bag of emotions, from sadness and longing to heartbreaking yearning, despair and desire, pride, self contentment, and love. The poems work magic on the reader, enticing to pause and go deeply into each setting, taking the time to truly understand what is being said. Brandon invites you to go Beyond Summer, breathing the freshly decaying scent of the air, hearing the rustle of leaves, and feeling the glow of warmly lit windows from the outside looking in. He dares you to examine A Dying Breed, where you can witness the tormented soul of a vampire, enduring death, tormented by ingrained desires, a man with no master, and content in his ways. With a nod to the last page, Petit shares this, “We pass the torch to our better halves and sell our souls to a nobler craft.” A poet, Brandon is a gifted artist at this nobler craft.

It is a different sort of poetry book; one that quietly offers to hold your attention and that will remain in your mind until it has you completely. Intelligently offering viewpoints you might not otherwise have come across, the work is darkly compelling and decidedly fresh. Take an unforgettable, neo-gothic journey, and expand your poetic horizons.

Poetry Review

Rocking in a Free World
By Mark Allen Gray
ISBN-10: 0976109530
Review by Heather Froeschl

Without chaos there is no peace, without struggle there is no celebration. These are the concepts of a collection of poetry, titled, "Rocking in a Free World," by Mark Allen Gray.

Broken into four chapters, Independence, Journey, Struggle, and Celebration, the author works to demonstrate his understanding of the feelings behind the words. In Independence he looks at the freedoms we have and the restrictions that keep us circled in. In Journey, Mark examines our purpose to Be, and experience life. In Struggle, he bears witness to inner turmoil and outer conflict. Celebration is all about that pivotal moment of change, that moment to rejoice; it regards the rupture of spring and laughter, and the burst of song.

Gray's style is point blank poetry. His words are honest and clear; his meaning is obvious. His artful intent is complete with self-made symbols for each chapter. It was a delight to read this book and reflect on his purpose.

Poetry/Relationships Review

Forever Sentimental Vol. III: Agape Love
by Kenyatta
ISBN-10: 0595396933

If you're looking for a sort of poetically styled relationship advice book, "Forever Sentimental" by Kenyatta, is for you. Taking the art of relationships to a lighter, artful form, the book offers sound advice and mixes it with loving words of caring.

The book is broken into sections titled, Cherish the Love, Heartbreak, Hopelessly Romantic, and Agape Love. Each section offers Life Lessons and a piece of verse for each one. Loosely correlated to each other the topics of verse and advice include everything involved in relationships, from finding someone to connect with, to putting an end to a bad relationship, being comfortable with yourself first, to making a major commitment.

Honestly, I prefer verse to feel more poetic than greeting card-like, but the honest heartfelt emotion in the works is obvious. The advice is well founded and thought out, and is presented in a straightforward and helpful manner. All in all, the book is an insightful exploration of love.

Poetry Review

Life, And Everything in Between
by Stephen J. Dodds
ISBN-10: 1595409750

It takes a certain talent to create poetic verse that truly evokes an image or feeling. Stephen J. Dodds demonstrates his abundant ability in his book, "Life and Everything in Between."

This wonderful collection of works covers many topics and is aptly named. I found the perfect description for the book within one of the poems, "Random thoughts adorn the page, like a jig saw, connecting not in context, but adjoining perfectly, in concert." Though many of the poems do connect in context, it is the overall feeling of one man's thoughts on life that pulls the book together so nicely. Each poem is accompanied by a quote that compliments it and completes the feelings evoked by the verse. Each poem is demonstrative of an ability to pull imagery and feeling together and weave them into carefully chosen words. I especially enjoyed "the bath" as it brought to mind the relaxed sensation of my favorite evening event and the peace of mind one feels watching troubles go down the drain along with the bubbles.

Typically I will ponder if I've read the author's intentions correctly when reading poetry. Dodds takes the mystery from that question with the addition of an explanation at the end of the book, regarding what brought many of the poems to be. This adds to his outreach to his readers as we can truly look into the mind of the artist.

Stephen J. Dodds has found a place in my mind as a talented modern poet for every walk of life.

Poetry Review

The Dark Side of the Moon (The Dark Side of the Moon by Varujan Ughurlyan, Volume 1)
by Varujan Ughurlyan
ISBN-10: 9994101471
Review by Heather Froeschl


Reflective, mindful, descriptive, obscure, intense and intimate are some of the words that come to mind while reading "The Dark Side of the Moon," by Varujan Ughurlyan. This book, a work of art, for it denies being compartmentalized into the categories of book of poetry or portfolio of paintings, is not to be taken lightly. The author's intentions are surely not pure entertainment. His own words, from one of the poems, sum up the work nicely...

"I want
to mold my thoughts
so the words condense
into exquisite sculptures."

In his artwork, the man's body merges with many others - perhaps as a statement that relates well with his written work. He labels himself unique and truly is. I believe this is one man's search for God, for understanding, for acknowledgment, and self. We simply witness it.

The works show examples of love and hate, righteousness and depravity, good and evil - humanly and godly qualities and considerations. Short tales of mythology and human-ology mix poetry and fiction, leaving messages - or not - with the reader. Sometimes confusing, other times enlightening, the book is not light reading and should be given time to enter the mind. It is a massive work of intricacy, an intensive work of art.

Children's book Review

Never Pull a Lion's Tail!: A collection of poetry and photographs about animals of Africa For Sophisticated Children of all Ages
by Barry J. Freeman
ISBN-10: 1904722245
Review by Heather Froeschl

Who doesn't love a book about animals? In the rich photographic collection of Barry J. Freeman's book, "Never Pull a Lion's Tail," readers will delight in not only fantastic pictures but also personable poetry. Go on safari with Barry and enjoy the ride.

With poems that reach out in animalistic innocence and humanistic politics, the book is a well-rounded offering to all ages. Children will love the references to the lion cub's nervousness, the baboon's overeating and the zebra losing his stripes, while adults might find satisfaction in a poacher who gets his just desserts, and a pair of waterbucks that thwart danger by falling in love. Young folks interested in animal conservation will no doubt be inspired, and those who just love photos of nature or poetry in the rhythm and rhyme style will be compelled to settle down with the book.

Barry Freeman, having gone on four African safaris to observe and photograph animals in their natural habitats, shares his joy with the world. It is obvious that he loves animals and his delight in writing about them shows on every page. The book is a wonderful addition to any library and home collection. The photos are absolutely splendid. Barry shares credit with two of Africa's widely published photographers: Karl Ammann and David Pluth. This is Barry's first published work but I certainly hope that it isn't his last!

"Never Pull a Lion's Tail" is a treasure!

Poetry Review

Wavelets
by Nahu
ISBN-10: 1598001566
Review by Heather Froeschl

Poetry is accepted in endless emotional responses. In my opinion, if successful, a poem can mean different things to each reader. What one takes from a poem reflects who or what the person reading is. In the book "Wavelets" by Nahu, the author offers up a rich smorgasbord of delicacies to be reflected upon by the individual, appealing to the broad interpretations that will result.

Topics covered in the poems range from the universe to the flight of birds and touch upon emotions of introspection, love and reverence. Each work creates a feel of its own, to be appreciated differently by each reader. Each poem offers a moment in time, a concept of spirit, and an awareness of soul.

Nahu reveals his many interests, from zen-like truths to consciousness, spiritual paths to teacher-student learnings. His book is truly a unique offering to lovers of poetry and those who can appreciate the artistically written word. "Wavelets" is one of the most inspiring works of poetry I have read in a good long while.

Poetry Review

Soul Inspired
by Joshua Dillaha
Review by Heather Froeschl


Poetry is such a wonderful tool for self-expression, emotional release, and creative art. The written word can evoke the deepest feelings; bring a smile, or tear, and reach out to the reader in many ways. Joshua R. Dillaha has published a collection of his poems, titled, "Soul Inspired." Whether the title refers to the reader's soul being inspired or his own having been and the results are the poetry within, his collection bears his soul and deepest thoughts.

The fifty-seven works of words are an example of a growing, maturing poet. From the beginning page, readers will feel the emotion put into each poem. In rhyme and rhythm Joshua spells out feelings of love, hurt, anger, fear, gratitude and more. On topics including being in the midst of war, watching a lost love marry, and finding his religion, Joshua openly shares his thoughts in the form of a poem.

The writing is sometimes intense, sometimes funny, and an ever evolving art. One can see growth here, in the person and the poet. It is clear that the author has a passion for his craft. I expect the future will hold more volumes from Joshua Ryan Dillaha, as his soul continues to be inspired.

Poetry Review

Covered By Blood
by Linda Kleinman
ISBN-10: 159467423X
Review by Heather Froeschl

"Covered By Blood" is a book of poetry that reaches out to its readers like an offered hand. With words of purpose, Linda Kleinman shares her thoughts on Christianity and Jesus. Readers will witness moments of humility, prayer and hope.

A short book of 104 pages, 73 poems, "Covered By Blood" is a testament to Christian belief. I am not sure exactly whom the book is intended for as the closing thoughts imply it is for the unconverted, a hope to turn the reader toward Christianity. Many of the poems are clearly written with this intent. However, quite a few of the poems are geared toward those who are in the process of converting others. Either way, it is an outreach.

As a book of poetry, its merits are not high. The poems are not altogether fluid or rhythmic and where rhyme is intended it is not always found. A handful of typos and misspellings added to my discontent when reading the book. The illustrations throughout the book were a nice addition though the feel of them is sketchy. The cover art is somewhat disturbing though that may have been the objective.

I feel the author's intentions were high and the effort was fine, but the end result is not a highly graded book.

Poetry Review

Pure Thought
by Hollie Dawn Smith
ISBN-10: 1413756077
Review by Heather Froeschl


"Pure Thought" is aptly titled, for Hollie Smith shares her most purely spiritual thoughts with readers. Through poems and verse she offers her thoughts on God and life. Here is a touching testament to one woman's spiritual path.

I would call this a book of prayers more than a book of poetry. The style of each piece varies from page to page, while the theme of prayer remains throughout the book. Smith has put to words what many only "speak" in their minds.

A touching book, it is short in length but long on spirit. The writing is rich and full of feeling. The messages relayed are deeply felt and clearly very important to the author. The target audience will surely connect to the book and cherish it.

Poetry Review

calling all hearts
by rodney timms
ISBN-10: 1885473850
Review by Heather Froeschl

For everyone who knows a child, "Calling All Hearts" is a book of poetry that will reach out to you and touch your soul. What better way to reach the world and inspire than by the written word? Rodney Timms has not had an easy life and it is his mission to change the lives of those children that are suffering as he did.

Each poem is filled with emotion and caring. Each page supports Childhelp USA, an organization that helps to prevent child abuse. Each person who reads this book will come away wanting to help, wanting to make the call that can save a life. This book will deeply touch those who have been abused, and those who know them.

Rodney Timms is a survivor. His poetry is telling and straightforward. It is sometimes sad and often evokes terrible images of child abuse. It is these images that he hopes will encourage the reader to take a stand against the violence. He offers poetry of joyful love for his grandchildren and special memories of his family as well. "Calling All Hearts" is a creative and expressive outreach that will speak to the heart of everyone who reads it.

Poetry Review

calling all hearts
by rodney timms
ISBN-10: 1885473850
Review by Heather Froeschl

For everyone who knows a child, "Calling All Hearts" is a book of poetry that will reach out to you and touch your soul. What better way to reach the world and inspire than by the written word? Rodney Timms has not had an easy life and it is his mission to change the lives of those children that are suffering as he did.

Each poem is filled with emotion and caring. Each page supports Childhelp USA, an organization that helps to prevent child abuse. Each person who reads this book will come away wanting to help, wanting to make the call that can save a life. This book will deeply touch those who have been abused, and those who know them.

Rodney Timms is a survivor. His poetry is telling and straightforward. It is sometimes sad and often evokes terrible images of child abuse. It is these images that he hopes will encourage the reader to take a stand against the violence. He offers poetry of joyful love for his grandchildren and special memories of his family as well. "Calling All Hearts" is a creative and expressive outreach that will speak to the heart of everyone who reads it.

Poetry Review

Picture Poetry On Parade!
by Joseph Sottile
ISBN-10: 1591134951
Review by Heather Froeschl

Picture Poetry on Parade is a humorous collection of poems that every school aged kid can relate to. Covering topics such as how to not make friends, brothers, sisters, teachers, dads, having to go to school and so much more.

Along the lines of Shel Silverstein, Joe Sottile has a good grasp on the viewpoint of kids and he's not afraid to show it. There are also poems where he offers the same subject from the view point of adults and kids and these make for funny comparisons if not friendly reminders to parents that we sometimes need to chill out.

The artwork is simplistic and kid friendly, just right for the accompanying text. The collection is a cute addition to a child's library and will be a well-checked book at school libraries, everywhere.

Poetry Review

Emotions: Love Made Courageous
by Milena Gomez
ISBN-10: 074141404X
Review by Heather Froeschl

"Emotions: Love Made Courageous," is a poetry book that touches deep the heart of the reader. It is our emotions that make us human, give our souls the lessons we need in life. Milena Gomez Alvarez has taken raw emotion and woven it into words of understanding.

Poetry is a language that speaks to everyone, if only they give it a chance. And what better topic to offer than that of emotion? Alvarez explores what love, the greatest human emotion, does to the heart and soul and shares her thoughts with the reader.

Her style is freeing and her grasp on rhythm and rhyme is well demonstrated. That she puts her own emotions into her writing is obvious and endearing. Here, an author offers up her self through her words and one cannot help but be moved. Expression of feelings is what this book is all about and, clearly, Alvarez has accomplished this. Life is, indeed, expressed in her prose.

Poetry Review

Emotions: Love Made Courageous
by Milena Gomez
ISBN-10: 074141404X
Review by Heather Froeschl

"Emotions: Love Made Courageous," is a poetry book that touches deep the heart of the reader. It is our emotions that make us human, give our souls the lessons we need in life. Milena Gomez Alvarez has taken raw emotion and woven it into words of understanding.

Poetry is a language that speaks to everyone, if only they give it a chance. And what better topic to offer than that of emotion? Alvarez explores what love, the greatest human emotion, does to the heart and soul and shares her thoughts with the reader.

Her style is freeing and her grasp on rhythm and rhyme is well demonstrated. That she puts her own emotions into her writing is obvious and endearing. Here, an author offers up her self through her words and one cannot help but be moved. Expression of feelings is what this book is all about and, clearly, Alvarez has accomplished this. Life is, indeed, expressed in her prose.