The Myths of Girlhood by Christine E. Ray is a raw and powerful collection that discusses various emotional experiences and topics. Ray takes us on a journey full of striking events and times of transformation. In the poems “Dissolution” and “Go Ask Alice,” she explores the struggle of finding identity and the pain that accompanies depression. Another prominent topic that stands out in the collection is the unrealistic expectations and limitations that society places on women. In the poem “I Knew My Name,” the poet discusses how society places limitations on girls from an early age. Another topic that is featured includes female objectification which is discussed in the poem “Objectification.” Domestic violence and sexual abuse are other prominent topics in the collection. The poem “Ode to a Black Eye” defines domestic violence explicitly.

Christine E. Ray’s collection, The Myths of Girlhood, is open and does not shy away from sensitive and difficult topics. In all the poems, the poet maintains an honest approach and includes different emotions and perspectives which allow for an in-depth understanding of the themes. The intensity of the tone in some of the poems communicates the desperation and pain of the characters. For other poems, such as “I Knew My Name,” it is the progressive narration of different events in the characters’ lives that effectively communicate the message of the poem. The words used in the collection are few but equally impactful, nonetheless. The Myths of Girlhood is a passionate collection that contains topics that inform and resonate with readers.

The Myths of Girlhood by Christine Ray is an insightful and beautiful collection of verses that gives readers a peek into the many stories of the lives of women, the pain we carry, and the strength that lies within us, along with sharing skeins of her personal life that have led her to analyzing the psyche of girlhood and womanhood. She helps women readers look into the dark side of their lives which have left them crippled yet given them the immense strength to emerge as survivors. Dealing with the past, embracing the demons inside, and walking towards freedom form the crux of her poetry which is an encouragement to all those who are survivors.

It is a collection of self-discovery, courage, conviction, strength, and transformation, one that speaks to all poetry lovers. There is an element of pain and angst that runs through her verses, and the minimalist expressions and starkness bring this out, making them tangible. Her words capture the vulnerability, helplessness, and remorse of a survivor, which stands out in the poem 'Introductions'. Every poem in the book is well worded and effective and will hit readers with unexpected beauty and profundity. 'Breathe Out In Black' is another poem that caught my attention with its darkness. For those readers who love poetry and poetic expressions, this collection is a must-read. They will love the honesty and straightforwardness that lingers in the poems and the way the emotions have been expressed is palpable while one is reading this collection.