"I am as a very weak man that has come a long ways
through the highways and byways and now
crawling"
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The Human Race by R. Vanderhoofven Trafford Publishing
book review by Michael Radon
This short collection of poems is focused primarily on questions of faith, existence, and the human experience. Collected over the course of nearly a decade, these poems bring questions in the author's mind to the forefront, but have such a broad universal appeal that they can serve as reflections for nearly any reader. The primary aim of selections like "Would You?" and "Trouble" is to call readers to give thanks and appreciate God despite the tribulations of life on Earth, while "No Shortcuts in Life" looks more at the promise for redemption made possible through unconditional love. As these poems were the end result of a vision made true for the author, the way these poems will lead you to think and feel the same things that led to the creation of this work is another dream come true.
Each of the poems comes with a backdrop of a gorgeous full-color photograph of natural peace and soothing flora and fauna. Between the selections themselves, the author occasionally provides some personal stories of what led to their inspiration or publication which provide a glimpse into the creative process. The heavy themes of faith and existence will prove to be a comfort to readers who are beset with serious questions about their lives. What makes these poems strong is the overall titular humanity that is at the heart of every word on these pages. The sincerity and heartfelt emotions of every line give these words their true strength. Readers with a heart full of faith and hope will certainly enjoy the poems in this book.