In this collection, Dr. Reyna paints life in vivid poetic tones that sing with universal consciousness. This Poet Laureate of the Altadena (CA) Library District is fearless in her weaving of the lives of everyman. Her courageous work embraces the truth of poverty, the divine in relationships, as well as the beauty of survival. No part of life, whether splendid or grim, is left untouched by her pen. She opens with, "To Charles Bukowski: About Poems," where she shares her take on voice.

…mine sometimes trickle out like drops of blood from wounds not
sealed, steady pops of purple that stain the page while fingers
tremble at ancient recollections…

Even the personal, as in "Grandmother's Insomnia," "To my 12-Year-Old Daughter" and "Sleepless Night," brings us into familiar worlds. With "Rosita's Hands" this poet shows us what it means to make a commitment to become an American, and in "Shadow Love," she reveals how life is lived without papers and in a way that humbles. Her words transcend nation, nationality, and economic status. This work is a free verse treatise on life as an American. The haunting poem, "Manicure Diva: Hong Hanh, Apricot Blossom" is one immigrant's life portrayed in black and white. It is accessible even between the lines. Another poem speaks to everyone's life in "Let There Be Light."

…Outside, the moon's a faded coin
on trees and clouds, an old woman with
her luster stripped who knows and waits…

Thelma Reyna, author of short stories and two other books of poetry, is a must read because each life, each nation, rises and falls—some to rise again, some to die. Whatever the outcome, it is poetry of this scope that will live on.

RECOMMENDED by the US Review