Jennie’s Review

Poetry is always such a varied reading experience for me. Sometimes a collection connects deeply, and sometimes it simply doesn’t land. But when this book crossed my desk, and I realized many of the pieces leaned into prose poetry, my curiosity immediately kicked in.

One of the most impactful reads for me was Living Rock, Losing Sky. I can’t even fully explain why, but it felt like I was reading that piece with my soul instead of just my brain. Those are the kinds of reads that linger long after you close the book. Melissa’s Angel also hit home, especially with its theme of pennies. My husband leaves coins in random places — always heads up — hoping a stranger will find one and smile, so that piece felt unexpectedly personal.

Then there was Mosses and Ivies, which instantly made me want to write a postcard or send an actual handwritten letter. In a world of quick texts and emails, it stirred up something nostalgic and warm.

This is not what I would consider a “typical” poetry collection, and honestly, that’s part of its charm. If you’ve been hesitant about poetry or think it’s not really your thing, this may be the perfect place to step in. Go in with an open mind and let yourself experience something a little different.

For more about this book, CLICK HERE!

Book Summary

Finalist, 2025 Blue Light Book Award

“Loosestrife for Porcupines is a beautifully crafted reflection of the intimacies of the natural world. Here, fiddler crabs raise their machine-gun claws like tiny gangsters. Named and nameless winds begin to stir. Balanced against these appreciations come listable sorrows, from the swollen oceans and the albino crows of Chernobyl to stars disappearing over the shifting bones of an aging planet. Inevitably, Gordon turns to us and asks, without judgement or malice, have we been wise? Craving joy, keenly insightful as they are compassionate, these stunning poems-both individually and collectively-are a timely and necessary gift.”

~ Mary A Koncel, The Last Blonde