Welcome to Litsy!

I‘m trying to gain a deeper appreciation for poetry. I I really enjoyed this small book of poetry. Smith writes about the joys and hardships of being a parent. The worry that all parents have about their kids growing up, but especially for Black boys. Some of his reflections are on historical places & reflecting on Americas past with the enslavement of others. I‘m a fan of Smith‘s writing in general & enjoyed his collection of poems.

This has sat unread on my shelf for YEARS. I‘m glad to have finally gotten around to reading it, and while it‘s not exactly flattering to Dickens it was a well-crafted novel that explored those close to me “the Chief” and I‘m glad I read it. My final #doublespin of 2024, and (unusually for me) I‘m ready to start 2025 with no book in progress. It‘s a clean slate. @TheAromaofBooks

I love Clint Smith‘s writing. This includes some of his keen and straightforward social analysis, always with an eye on historical context. But also a lot of sweetness about young fatherhood.

I tried but I don‘t like Gonzalo, I don‘t like Carla and I don‘t like the humour. Some parts are funny others just feel forced and silly. Zambra can write, especially steamy scenes but this book or maybe even this author is just not for me.

I‘m such a crank. I like thinking about my kids when they were young, but this poetry collection focusing on being a new father didn‘t do much for me. The half-reaches on more serious topics were similar. Ok. He does pull back his punches. I kept thinking this stuff feels thin.

The mid-year reflections begin! It's pretty clear who are my favourite authors of 2024...so far...yes, six of these are rereads.

But some days, I worry that we are welcoming you into the flames of a world that is burning.
Some days, I am afraid that I am more kindling than water.
Poetry collection by Clint Smith

#ReadAway2024