Book Reviews (Vol. 1, Number 3)
Witty, energetic, accessible and fun are all terms that could be applied to the poetry of Michelle Pinkard. (whose work appears on p. 20-21 of this issue). But compassionate, thoughtful and profound would apply as well. She has deservedly been called "a brilliantly talented new voice in the African American community" (Rawsistaz Book Club). Pinkard's poetry cries out to be read aloud or sung - it echoes the slap of a playground jump rope or street corner slam, and effortlessly shift gears from political and social to personal and spiritual themes. She recognizes the sociopolitical "tornado" we face in the 21st century; but unlike many who merely decry it, she chooses to fight it. In her poetry, injustice is met with action, anger with reason, confusion with contemplation and loss with hope. Life is too precious to not be lived well, and in her "tornado-fighting," Pinkard has chosen to do just that. We look for good things in the future from this talented young poet.
