Title: Life: A Selection of Short Poems
Author: Stephanie Brown
Illustrations by: Mark Ruben Abacajan
Publisher: Xlibris
ISBN: 978-1-5144-9643-5
Pages: 30
Genre: Poetry, Spiritual, Christianity
Reviewed by: Beth Adams
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Author Stephanie Brown ends her book of poetry with what is actually the beginning of her spiritual submission, “Thank you firstly to God and all my family, natural and spiritual for your constant love and prayers.” In her book, Life: A Selection of Short Poems, she affirms her faith to the Lord Jesus with humble, introspective and eloquent poems, each a reflection on her foundation of faith.
Brown’s poetry is terse, each only a few stanzas, set in the genre of prayers which can be read aloud; if not verbally then slowly and boldly in your mind, mentally, as if talking to God. The generous spacing of text in the galley of this book, interleaved with beautiful illustrations by artist Mark Ruben Abacajan, bring a sense of relaxation and serenity to the reader, transporting one to a sanctuary of earth’s comforting natural beauty. The water colored pictures each depict a different style of tranquility with nature, as well as a couple of abstracts of clouds and colors which can be used to pause and reflect on the messages of the poems. As the reader pages the alternating poetry and pictures, a storyboard effect is cast upon one’s mind performing the intended task of humility for the sanctity of life and the miracle of creation. All gifts from God.
Life is published electronically as well as in print. I believe the hardcover version would be the best medium for possessing this work. As a printed book, one can reflect on the theme portrayed without the possession of an electronic device, making the impact of the combination of words and images a more personal experience. The book would also be ideal to leave by a bedside for repeated viewing, a gift for someone recovering from an illness, or given to a loved one to share in the celebration of common faith. I would imagine also this book would be an ideal addition to a waiting room as it can be read in only a brief amount of time; picked up and placed down as time allows.
Paying particular homage to the Biblical origins of the poems in her book, Stephanie Brown has compiled a presentation of beauty in a publication which will be treasured by all those fortunate enough to receive the blessings of Life: A Selection of Short Poems.
