Tag: book review

Staring Into the Sun
Joshua Fields (2010) ISBN 9781432759537
Reviewed by Joseph Yurt for Reader Views (09/10)

As is my habit with any new book I pick up for the first time, I peruse the front cover, then the back cover. In this instance, the book in hand was “Staring Into the Sun,” a collection of poetry written by Joshua Fields. The minimalist copy on the back cover proclaims that “Inside is a compilation of his life’s experiences and insights.” Since this small, slender collection of work is only thirty-nine pages, I’ve concluded that each reader must decide whether this proclamation is genuine, tongue in cheek, or both.

Collectively, the free-form pieces are part of the author’s personal celebration of “life’s greatest gift – love.” Stylistically, Fields melds cryptic dialogue with coffee house cadence in thirty-nine pieces that recollect, recount and reflect on his relationship over time with the love of his life. From the piece entitled “Attraction,” he writes,

“You say goodbye and I say hello
Don’t know why you…
No, I really want to know
Because I’m a woman and you’re a man
Intoxicates?

At times, infuriates” From another piece, “The Newborn,” he pens,

“Look at the size of her head
That’s our daughter you’re talking about
Like a bowling ball
She’ll grow into it
I’m so proud Me too
Has your eyes
And your bald scalp”

While some of Fields’ insights seem a bit stereotypical, overall, there is an appealing, amusing universality in much of what he writes. “Staring Into the Sun” is somewhat like reading a personal blog about love relationships. I recommend it if you are seeking yet another voice and perspective in the never-ending discussion of the differences between men and women in love. It is not recommended if you are looking for fresh, new dialogue on the subject.

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Of Lights in the Night; Friends and Adventure
Sean Noonan
9781432752897, $11.95

“Of Lights in the Night; Friends and Adventure” is a delightful fantasy adventure chapter book written for readers ages 4-8 and up. It is about a brother and sister Elannah and Sam and their dwarf friend Arnold, who meet in their secret Tree-House in the Jungle when they sleep and dream. They excitedly fly forth on flying bikes to see Rodger the Badger, in search of magical fireworks. They end up with the Great Wizard Grumphspawn in the Great Northern Mountains, where they experience the seven assorted sensations, the Goblin Racer, the Highlander’s Delight, the Jolly Jester, the King’s Coronation Ball, the Long Light Liberation, the Parrots, Pirates and Pancakes Piratical Pyrotechnics; and lastly the Troll’s Totally Terribly Triumphant Toothy Tongue Tingler. As might be surmised, there is not a dull moment on any page. Best of all, as morning approaches, Elannah and Sam say goodbye to their new friends, promising to return for more adventures. Black and white illustrations drawn by the author’s 6-year-old daughter are included in the book’s ending, which also promises another adventure dream-story soon, “A First Christmas; Friends and Festivity.”