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Reviewed by Doreen Chombu for Readers' Favorite
Was It a Dream? by Larada Horner-Miller is a deeply personal collection of poems that chronicles the author’s journey and love of poetry. It covers her struggles and reflections over fifteen years. She talks about humanity and her connection to the Maya, sharing her time in Mexico and Canada, and observations of nature. The author has included a love poem from her wedding and pays tribute to her father and great-grandmother while recounting her upbringing. She discusses the pain of not having a child by the age of forty, the loneliness she felt, and her struggle with the perception of failing to pass on her heritage, which made her feel less of a woman. The book details her introduction to poetry, illustrating how it transformed her view of the world and highlighting the importance of sharing her experiences with others. It also covers aging, storytelling, teaching poetry, and actively creating a meaningful life.
Was It a Dream? is a beautiful collection that delves into themes of love, loss, identity, healing, and spiritual connection, all inspired by Larada Horner-Miller's personal experiences. Influenced by poets such as Mary Oliver, Emily Dickinson, and Joy Harjo, her work combines free verse, magical realism, and haiku to convey her evolving understanding of herself and the world around her. The collection is both a catharsis for the author and an invitation for readers to find beauty and meaning in life's ordinary and extraordinary moments. The author skillfully balances profound, emotionally charged subjects like alcoholism, motherhood, love, heartbreak, and miscarriage with reflections on simple, everyday experiences. This juxtaposition creates a relatable and heartfelt narrative that will resonate deeply with readers, emphasizing that even amidst life's most intense struggles, there are small, meaningful moments worth cherishing. The book has photos of people mentioned in the poems and colorful images that are eye-catching. Overall, this book conveys inspiring messages and is a compelling read for anyone seeking connection and insight through poetry.
