Hurley's gorgeously bound book of poetry includes two short stories and three autobiographical essays, which recall significant moments of the author's storied life. The award-winning writer confesses poetry "grounded" his writing passion after a notable conversation with his mentor, Father Raymond Roseliep. He even met the greatly admired poet Robert Frost at the 1959 University of Iowa Writers' Workshop, impressing on Hurley a lifelong fondness for poetry. This experience is recounted in the poem "Offered Hand" and the essay "A Personal Rebuke from Robert Frost," originally published in the Robert Frost Review.

The two short stories included here are absorbing reads. The visceral "The Broken Day of Bernie McCarville" portrays his grandfather's tragic incident with a freight train in 1915, while in "The Second Drawer Revolver," Hurley channels the voice of a fourteen-year-old in a curious episode of shooting an intruder. The poems are inspired by real-life events where Hurley continues exploring themes such as family, aging, and life and death. "Impressionists" affectionately honors his marriage with his wife as a "painter and a poet locked in time." "Julia Rose" lovingly reflects upon the fears and joys of becoming a father. "Apollo 11" pays homage to the wonders of space flight. "Two Slow Murders" sorrowfully muses on the death of a neighbor's dog and its lingering, traumatic impact. And "Dear Reader: P.S." thanks readers for joining Hurley in this writing journey.

Hurley concentrates primarily on place and time, his words flowing with a particular rhythm that holds the reader's attention. They are mournful, uplifting, and at times humorous. Also worth reading is the moving forward, written by Robert Bernard Hass, highlighting Hurley's strengths and characteristics. Overall, this book reveals a writer's true dedication and articulation in providing an anthology worthy of such a fulfilling life.

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