Nonpareils by Michael Pedretti is a collection of 53 poems. Frank Shatz celebrates the life of Frank, who had escaped a slave labor camp and went ahead to interview some of the most powerful people of the time. Yet Frank acknowledges his greatest legacy is saving people from facing the gas chambers of Adolf Eichmann. Agnes Venner is celebrated as a mother and a giver of life through birth, feeding, and planting. Peter Pedretti saw more change than most, owned half the town, yet gave it all away without regret. Jack Byer is celebrated as an excellent friend and tutor who encouraged questioning and thinking, with no ideas looked down upon. Clowns are celebrated for happiness and kindness to those who need it most. Alexander is celebrated as the conqueror who inspired Caesar, Charlemagne, and Napoleon. What did they all achieve other than pain, suffering, and death for the many casualties of their wars?

Nonpareils by Michael Pedretti is a unique and interesting read that shows the value of human connections and the nature of choices and consequences. I loved how it challenges one to look beyond what has been written in major historical accounts. It is an inspiration to look within ourselves and our communities to appreciate the heroes amongst us who make life worthwhile. I also loved some of the quotes provided, which enrich the work. This thought-provoking work can also be used as a stepping stone to read more about some of the individuals mentioned who did not get enough credit in mainstream historical accounts. Michael ensures the language used is easy to understand, which makes this work accessible to all kinds of audiences.

“You are equal to everyone. Hardly worthless.” Michael Pedretti’s Nonpareils is a poetic reflection of extraordinary and exemplary lives. The people honored by this poet are not rich, nor are they famous. They are not kings, queens, or people of power (though arguably their power really is second to none). Fifty-three poems, divided into seven categories, honor those who have given so much of their lives for others. Some are creative geniuses, while others are mothers and caregivers. There’s Agnes Venner, “Giver of life/ Maker of things/ birthing, feeding, clothing, tutoring.” And then there’s Leo Pedretti, “Brother to twelve/ Uncle to seventy/ Mentor to more/ Friend to all.” The poet honors their lives in panegyric poems (praise poems). The poems celebrate the lives of these extraordinary individuals, those who really had the power to shape humanity, through diligence, hard work, compassion, and sometimes just setting a good example.

Michael Pedretti’s book, Nonpareils: 53 Panegyric Poems, is extraordinary in itself in that it honors those whom the standard history books choose to pass over. The poems are simple, free verse with stanzas and reflective insights. The poems are interspersed with quotes from so-called “famous” people through the ages: artists, writers, leaders, and deep thinkers. This is a fascinating collection of thoughts and people, one that will have readers considering the extraordinary people around them and how they have shaped the world, more prophetically and sincerely than the “famous.” And, the poet concludes his book with a self-proclaimed assertion of his contributory powers. “Me” is his story, from the age of seven to eighty-three: “I still hope./ Peace, fairness, and kindness/ Are who we are ” Nonpareils: without equal. A fascinating read.