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Book review of "A Trilogy of Poetry, Prose and Thoughts for the Mind, Body and Soul" Date Reviewed: Feb 27, 2007.
Reviewed by **Guest Reviewer Rowena Winfrey of The RAWSISTAZ™ Reviewers
Rowena Winfrey is currently working on her first full length novel, and hopes to become a published author in 2007. She lives in Corsicana, Texas, near Dallas.
Copyright 2001-2008 - RAWSISTAZ™Literary Group
Date Reviewed: Feb 27, 2007
A trilogy of poetry, prose and thought...
A TRILOGY OF POETRY, PROSE AND THOUGHTS FOR THE MIND, BODY & SOUL features literature by a family of three authors; each has a section showcasing their work. The first section features the work of father Joseph S. Spence, Sr. Joseph's poetry and prose reflect the various facets of life, and the challenges therein. Some of his poetry is written from the male perspective, but most of his work is general observations about people and life in general. My favorites in his section were the poems "Soul Food Christmas," and "The Electric Slide." The latter poem is so descriptive, only music is needed to create the image of this dance.
The second section features son Jonathan C. Parrish Spence. Jonathan's work is more dramatic than both of his parents, and as he is only a teenager, much more youthful than Joseph's or Sheila's. In spite of his youth, he offers a refreshing perspective on life from someone who is in the early stages of experiencing it. Of his selections, I most enjoyed "Five A Day, Fruits and Vegetable, They're OK" and "Now That's What I Call Music," which features the name of several R&B, Rap and Hip-Hop musicians.
The third and final section is Sheila Parrish-Spence's work. Sheila's writing is more emotional and descriptive than that of the men in her family, with a light, airy flair not found in Joseph's or Jonathan's writing. Her poetry also reflects life experiences, and my favorites of her selections were "Sand and Sea," "I Love You," and "Your Smile My Son."
This book is truly a family affair, a collection of writing which shows the uniqueness of each author, yet also offers a similarity of thoughts and feelings which are only shared and understood between those in a family. The poetry is expressive and creative, the prose is descriptive and illuminating. The entire book is relaxing to read, and will leave the reader with a sense of calmness and peace, whether they sample a few poems and stories at random, or read the entire book.
It would be nice to see the Spence family do other collaborations, or even individual works in the future, A TRILOGY OF POETRY, PROSE AND THOUGHTS FOR THE MIND, BODY & SOUL provides a memorable experience.
Reviewed by **Guest Reviewer Rowena Winfrey
of The RAWSISTAZ™ Reviewers
Website: http://www.trilogypoetry.com
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Rowena Winfrey is currently working on her first full length novel, and hopes to become a published author in 2007. She lives in Corsicana, Texas, near Dallas
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Copyright 2001-2008 - RAWSISTAZ™Literary Group
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Hearty and wholesome. A delightful meal for Mind, Body, and Soul. An inspiration to us all. I simply could not put this book down. The wonderful lyrics and exciting prose in this book entice the reader to sing and dance to the rhythm of love and laughter while savoring the splendor of authentic foods from Jamaican to southern cuisine.
Joseph Spence has outdone himself in this book which offers a wide variety of poems that makes reading interesting and even amusing. His wife Sheila is an outstanding and highly esteemed poet on her own. Her work lends a feminine touch to their work. Gentle words, mellow thoughts and a deep understanding of love flow through her poems filling the reader with heartfelt warmth, tenderness and nostalgia.
Their son Jonathan adds excitement and youthful enthusiasm to the pages of this book. His poems are practical and realistic with vivid imagery and an easy flow of thought that evokes childhood memories of bright-eyed wonder and innocence lost.
What a team. There is certainly strength in unity.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book twice and I have given it a special place on my bookshelves. It is great for after dinner reading with friends. This book is certainly a great work of art and a family's vision of God's wonderful Creation. I recommend this book to all who enjoy beauty of the mind, body and soul and to all who love to use their imagination to the fullest.
I look forward to reading more of this family's work.
Review by Margaret Ottley-Okubo
Author of EVERYDAY MIRACLES and ON THE WINGS OF TIME.(Self Help & Personal Growth)
www.marge-angels.com