Title: A Light from Within: Inspirational poems of a Child’s Struggle Through Trauma
Author: Nikki Kelly
Publisher: AuthorHouse
ISBN: 978-1-6655-2357-8
Pages: 148
Genre: Poetry
Reviewed by: Margie Przybylski
Pacific Book Review
Nikki Kelly’s book of poems, A Light from Within, opens a window into the heart of a young girl struggling with trauma throughout her entire life. Born into the foster care system, Nikki Kelly grew up believing she was missing something. Her poems shed light on what it feels to be a foster child. While this book contains mature material, I believe it can be a learning experience for other young people to read. Though Kelly’s life experience vastly differs from the majority – her voice speaks to all. She is relatable and her poems are carefully crafted, each word has a purpose and the poems carry their own weight within her collection.
What is so remarkable about this collection of poems is the power that each one holds. They are each so moving and memorable, I find myself haunted and chilled by Kelly’s descriptive verses. Her diction and word choice make the poems artistic; each word is carefully placed and fits perfectly within the poem. Though her poems rhyme the subject matter is hardly light hearted, though the rhymes certainly make the poems easy to read and understand. Through rhyming the poet brings the reader to her own experiences. Rhyming also connects the reader to their own childhood memories in school and at home.
In the section titled “School” Nikki Kelly reveals that she has dyslexia. This came to such a surprise to me as her writing is truly moving and beautiful. Each poem reads like a well carried out plan, they follow a variety of forms and styles. Her rhymes are not forced, instead they flow like a river carrying her experiences, thoughts, trauma, pain to the readers. Nikki Kelly faces so much hardship in her life – she is an inspiration to others. Though she received failing grades and experienced other difficulties, she shares her story, she uses her voice – and a beautiful voice at that!
Nikki Kelly’s vulnerability regarding her own personal experience encourages others to use their voice in times of trauma or abuse. It is so unfortunate what happened to the poet in her childhood, this work is so important in bringing awareness to the abuse of children in America. This book exposes the dangers which lurks while hidden in plain sight. Not everyone is able to speak out, and not all victims experience justice for their loss. In a perfect world – Nikki Kelly’s experiences would have never happened; in our world they are a reality for far too many.
