Books Like...

Poetry Pharmacy by William Sieghart is a thoughtful anthology filled with poems for various life situations. It offers comfort, encouragement, and affirmation through carefully selected works from famous poets like Mary Oliver. Readers can find pieces that resonate with their feelings of divorce, loneliness, cancer, grief, and more. The book is designed to help navigate life's challenges by suggesting poems as remedies, making it a perfect gift for anyone going through a tough time.

The writing style in this anthology is accessible and warm. Each poem is accompanied by a straightforward introduction that sets the tone for its use as a 'prescription' for emotions. The collection is diverse, blending different styles and voices, which keeps it engaging for both poetry lovers and novices alike. Many reviewers have praised it for its emotional depth and have found it a valuable resource in times of need.

'A Thousand Mornings' by Mary Oliver is a collection of poetry that deeply connects with nature and life. Oliver's writing style is described as contemplative, simple yet deeply moving, with poems that read like songs of praise to the natural world. The poems in this collection are meditative observances of nature, praising the natural order and humanity's place within it, while also exploring themes of self-reflection and spirituality.

Amanda Gorman's book 'Call Us What We Carry' is a collection of poetry that delves into the Black experience in America, interwoven with themes of hope, unity, and historical reflections. Gorman's writing style is described as brilliant, unique, and masterful, with a focus on expressing feelings and ideas in a profound and impactful manner. The book includes a variety of poems with interesting visual presentations, showcasing the author's creativity not only with words but also with the overall structure of the poems.

"The World's Wife" by Carol Ann Duffy is a collection of poems that give voice to the female subjects of modern and ancient myths, sharing their perspectives on well-known stories and historical figures. The poems are described as thought-provoking, amusing, and deep, offering a unique take on the lives and experiences of the wives of famous men from history and fables. Duffy's writing style is praised for its wit, cleverness, and ability to subvert traditional narratives, making the reader see familiar tales from a new and feminist perspective.

'The Rattle Bag' is a poetry anthology curated by Seamus Heaney and Ted Hughes, featuring a diverse selection of poems from around the world. The book is described as a collection that encourages readers to explore different poets and styles of poetry, with poems arranged in an unusual alphabetic order. The editors intentionally present the poems randomly, allowing readers to have serendipitous finds and discover new works they may not have encountered before. The anthology is praised for its variety, spanning different poets, styles, forms, and subjects, making it a bountiful and enjoyable collection to delve into.

'Helium' by Rudy Francisco is a collection of powerful and heartfelt poetry that delves into themes of love, loss, self-reflection, and human experiences. Francisco's writing style is described as raw, honest, and relatable, with metaphors that are expressed in a way that resonates deeply with readers. The poems in this collection are said to be both personal and global, touching on political and non-political topics, showcasing the beauty of imperfections and highlighting the essence of humanity.

Crush by Richard Siken is a collection of poetry that delves into themes of love, longing, self-discovery, and darkness. The poems are described as hauntingly beautiful, raw, and evocative, with a focus on homoerotic relationships and the complexities of human emotions. The writing style is noted for its vivid imagery, intense emotions, and a sense of urgency that captivates readers and leaves them feeling deeply moved.

The book is structured into three parts, each exploring different motifs and emotions that weave together to create a cohesive narrative. The poems are described as cinematic, immersive, and filled with both explicit and symbolic references to love, pain, and desire. Richard Siken's writing is praised for its honesty, immediacy, and ability to evoke a wide range of emotions in readers, making Crush a powerful and thought-provoking read.

'Wild Geese' by Mary Oliver is a poetry collection that touches the hearts of readers with its life-affirming and nature-inspired verses. The book is known for its accessible and moving poetry that explores themes of self-discovery, healing, and the beauty of the natural world. Through poems like 'Wild Geese', 'The Journey', and 'Morning Poem', Mary Oliver invites readers to reflect on their place in the world and find solace in the simplicity and wonder of everyday life.

Billy Collins' 'Aimless Love: New and Selected Poems' is a collection that showcases the poet's accessibility, sense of humor, and ability to evoke both light-heartedness and deeper emotions through his words. The poems in this book range from whimsical and humorous to contemplative and introspective, with each piece offering a unique perspective on life, love, and the world around us. Collins' writing style is characterized by its clarity, economy of words, and ability to speak to readers from all walks of life, making his poetry both relatable and thought-provoking.

The Labrador Pact by Matt Haig is a unique and engaging story told from the perspective of a loyal Labrador retriever named Prince. The book explores the concept of 'The Pact,' a code that Labradors follow to protect their family above all else, even at the expense of their own needs. Through Prince's narrative, readers witness a complex tale of loyalty, family dynamics, and the internal struggle between following a set of principles and succumbing to societal pressures. The plot unfolds gradually, revealing unexpected twists and emotional depth that keep readers invested in Prince's journey and the challenges he faces in upholding The Pact.

Matt Haig's writing style in The Labrador Pact is described as gripping and skillful, with a mix of humor and darkness that creates a compelling narrative. The author adeptly weaves together themes of loyalty, morality, and the complexities of human-animal relationships, offering readers a thought-provoking exploration of identity and ethical choices. Through Prince's eyes, Haig delivers a powerful story that delves into deeper philosophical questions while keeping the reader engaged with a blend of humor, heartbreak, and suspense.