Here's the Kirkus review of da book. I have "uneven" feelings about it and wish I was better at just taking the good parts to heart and not getting fussed about words like "laziness." I love the way it starts, though. Makes me feel like a grown-up poet.
https://www.kirkusreviews.com/book-reviews/nonnie-augustine/see-whos-there/
A good review in a notable venue is a good thing.
So, you think it's a good review, Gary? Huh?
The idea of being reviewed terrifies me, but I believe you got thru this one relatively unscathed. For blurbs use just the most complimentary comments--to hell with the rest. Reviews for the most part are subjective, and done by hacks. (I have nightmares in which Michiko Kakutani tears me to shreds, even tho anything by her would sell books.)
How's this: "Vividly evokes many individual characters and shows a consistently vigorous imagination." -- Kirkus Reviews
Would fit nicely with several others both on Amazon and the back cover!
Yes, I think it is a good review. It misses the profoundly loving nature of your book and gets a bit petty in its bit of snark but i would be pleased.
Darlin' men, you two. xxoononnie
Congrats!
"The elegant grandeur of some moments contrasts sharply but fruitfully with the quotidian details of others; Augustine plays on these contrasts with steady skill that enhances both types of memories: “I go home to the fifth floor walk-up on Christopher Street,” one verse declares, “where I live with Jim who plays a ghost on Dark Shadows.” The narrative voices and perspectives often change abruptly, and the verse forms have an almost equal diversity." Kirkus
That's wonderful! And the quote Mathew chose. Great praise!
Good quote, Dianne. Perfect for blurbing.