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A Book Review: The Moons of Autumn

Hello friends, today I have for you the review I’ve posted on Goodreads and Amazon of
this lovely book of syllabic poetry I came to many moons late. I’m so happy I finally did
and I hope my review piques your interest in this collection.

The Moons of Autumn: A Word Craft Journal of Syllabic Verse by Colleen M. Chesebro

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


Recommendation: Read this book before bed. Let me tell you why.

The Moons of Autumn: A Word Craft Journal of Syllabic Verse edited by Colleen M. Chesebro and Jules Paige was published on September 28, 2021.

I immediately loved the title, the front cover image, and the feel of the book. Upon opening the collection, I found all the syllabic forms I’ve come to appreciate (and attempt to emulate myself) in this short, 63-page jewel of a book: haiku, tanka, gogyohka, haibun; cinquain poetry, nonet, badger hexastitch, abhanga; and some of their variations.

bare branches/bathing in moonlight—/autumn scribbles/ moving with the night// ~ Pat Raffington

Each short poem—and they’re all short—has a density of detail in its imagery-inducing quality, so that each author’s chosen words resonate deep.

blackberry moon/her fingers stained/with juice// ~ Nancy Brady

As if that wasn’t enough already, editor Colleen M. Chesebro succinctly presents each section with an easy-to-understand description of the forms, adding more value. This makes it a perfect book of reference with excellent examples.

There are lovely illustrations throughout the pages and at the back biographies of all the participating authors.

I read The Moons of Autumn slowly at night, before bed, and highly suggest the same for you—not because the poems put me to sleep but because each nature poem helps to calm the residue of external “happenings” of modern life: the nightmares of our days today. ​(that is my WHY)

full moon/herald of change/gold autumn blowing/cycles of waxing and waning/take heart/for life flowers, withers, reseeds/earth to ash, dust to green/oak and acorn/reborn// ~ D. Wallace Peach

I believe that after cozying with these poems you​, too​, will achieve restful sleep. A moment to appreciate short sojourns in nature gazing at the moon through another’s eyes—this, I highly recommend for everyone. I highly recommend​ this book.

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This photo of a lovely stamp was taken by selma.

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Thanks dearly.

Selma Martin
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This Post Has 26 Comments

  1. beth

    it sounds lovely and I really like that the form explanations are included

    1. Selma Martin

      Yes, a little knowledge of the rules employed makes them that the more enjoyable. Wows! Thanks Beth. Xo

  2. Gwen M. Plano

    Thank you, Selma, for showcasing Colleen’s lovely collection. She is an amazing artist, writer, poet, and naturalist. ❤️

    1. Selma Martin

      Colleen is all those things and a great human being
      Thanks for reading Gwen. 🥰

    1. Selma Martin

      It’s an amazing book. Sharing it is my pleasure. Blessings Maggie

  3. robertawrites235681907

    HI Selma, thank you for sharing this wonderful review. I have also read and enjoyed this book.

    1. Selma Martin

      A wonderful book it is indeed.
      Looking forward to the new Sunflower. Congrats. 🎉

  4. Colleen Chesebro

    Thanks so much, Selma. This was such a great anthology. I appreciate your review. You made my Sunday extra special. 💖

    1. Selma Martin

      Aww, that I made your Sunday. That’s such a sweet thing to say. You made my Day. Bless you. I want more reviews on this book.
      And looking forward to reading Sunflowers too. Such beauty. Bless you

    1. Selma Martin

      So pleased to know you liked it dear Diana. Happy holidays my friend.

  5. jazzytower

    Oo!! You started with me! Loved the anthology. A lovely, thoughtful review. Thanks Selma.
    Pat
    p.s. Of course, I ran upstairs to show it my daughter🥰. She’s beaming!!

    1. Selma Martin

      I started with you, Pat because that was the one that grabbed me well from the start. What a beautiful poem. Adore it. I hope more people to get hold of this lovely book. It’s priceless. Congratulations my friend. Sending holiday blessings. Stay sweet. I wish you miracles.

  6. jazzytower

    Same to you! Again, thank you very much.
    Pat

  7. Chris Hall

    Yep, really enjoyed it – lovely poets, and of course, I know quite a lot of them! I was reading it in Autumn too 🍂

    1. Selma Martin

      I really enjoyed it Chris. Happy we shared same feelings about this one. Bless you.

  8. D.L. Finn, Author

    Thank you for sharing this wonderful review, Selma 🙂 It was a great collection Colleen put together!

  9. Michele Lee

    That is a beautiful title, Selma and your reviews are a treat. Thank you for sharing your generous and beautiful spirit. 🍁🌛

  10. rajkkhoja

    Beautiful your book review. Nice collection.

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