The Wonder of Small Things: Poems of Peace and Renewal

Book Review: The Wonder of Small Things: Poems of Peace and Renewal by James Crews

The Wonder of Small Things: Poems of Peace and Renewal, edited by James Crews, is a delightful anthology that invites readers to explore moments of wonder and peace in everyday life. With a deep love for the world permeating each poem, this collection sparks curiosity and encourages readers to embrace the beauty and mysteries of existence.

Crews has curated a diverse selection of poems from renowned authors, including Native American poets Joy Harjo, Linda Hogan, Kimberly Blaeser, and Joseph Bruchac, as well as BIPOC writers Ross Gay, Julia Alvarez, and Toi Derricotte. Additionally, the anthology features new works from popular writers such as Natalie Goldberg, Mark Nepo, Ted Kooser, Naomi Shihab Nye, Jane Hirshfield, and Jacqueline Suskin.

The book opens with a foreword by Nikita Gill, setting the tone for what lies ahead. As readers delve into the collection, they are guided through moments of reflection with pauses interspersed throughout the pages. These reflective pauses allow readers to fully immerse themselves in the meaning and essence of each poem. Furthermore, the inclusion of reading group questions at the end of the book enhances the reading experience, making it suitable for both individual contemplation and group discussion.

One of the standout features of The Wonder of Small Things is its accessibility. The poems are highly approachable, making them perfect for both seasoned poetry enthusiasts and those new to the genre. Crews has successfully compiled a collection that engages readers with its beauty and meaning, drawing them in regardless of their prior familiarity with poetry.

As a reader who had not delved deeply into poetry before, I found this anthology to be an excellent starting point. The carefully selected poems in The Wonder of Small Things touched me with their elegance and depth. Each piece captured the essence of life, nature, and appreciation, offering moments of solace and inspiration.

I particularly enjoyed the thought-provoking questions that followed each poem. These prompts encouraged me to pause and reflect on the themes presented, deepening my understanding and connection to the words on the page. Additionally, the writing prompts provided were an unexpected bonus, igniting my own creativity and allowing me to engage more deeply with the poetic form.

Furthermore, I must highlight the charming cover of this book, which immediately caught my attention. Its visual appeal perfectly complements the content within, creating an aesthetically pleasing reading experience.

In conclusion, The Wonder of Small Things: Poems of Peace and Renewal is a gem of an anthology that invites readers on a journey of wonder and contemplation. With its accessible poems and thoughtful prompts for reflection, this book is suitable for both poetry aficionados and those new to the genre. James Crews has curated a collection that celebrates the beauty of life and nature while reminding us of the importance of appreciating the small things. For these reasons and more, I give The Wonder of Small Things a well-deserved 5 out of 5 stars.

ARC Via NetGalley