https://www.amazon.com/Fish-Boy-John-Gosslee/dp/0999447181 Sealey Challenge #18 If you've ever felt the sting of a parent dying or the throes of mental illness, this is a book which will touch you in ways you can't even imagine. I met John at a birthday party and continued to read, hear, and see his work. He's a thoughtful wordsmith and … Continue reading “Fish Boy” by John Gosslee
Recommendations
Wylie Phenix Appreciation Post
Wylie Phenix is a creative visionary I never thought I'd encounter. He is creating a cartoon called "Queer Horror Cartoon", which contains a cast completely compiled of LGBTQ+ actors. It is also refreshing to know he's engaged to be married to his long time partner and fellow YouTuber, Tyler Ringhand. Please read more about the … Continue reading Wylie Phenix Appreciation Post
“Their Footsteps” by Kassie J. Runyan
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08LT3KMFT/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_hsch_vapi_tkin_p1_i2 Sealey Challenge #17 I had the pleasure of meeting Kassie in a Zoom reading for the release of this book. I was thoroughly amazed by the minimalism in the poetry, as it went well with the amazing full-color photos on the page. Having pre-ordered, Kassie was nice enough to include a handmade journal, a … Continue reading “Their Footsteps” by Kassie J. Runyan
“A Socially Acceptable Breakdown” by Patrick Roche
https://www.amazon.com/Socially-Acceptable-Breakdown-Patrick-Roche/dp/1943735980 Sealey Challenge #16 Patrick Roche is one of the most important figures we have in poetry. The ways in which he describes suicidal tendencies is heartbreaking and profound. I have been fortunate enough to watch him perform in numerous venues and his vulnerability speaks volumes.
“Remembering Tamir on the 4th of July…” (a poem by Donna Ferrie)
https://www.àboutdesouffle.com/2017/07/remembering-tamir.html When I grow upTo become a manI'm gonna be a Super Hero,Savin' the worldFrom all things bad. I think I’ll wearNot a cape of redBut a Shirt of Blue,A Silver-Star BadgeOf Invincible Power,An Emblazoned Cap--All the neighborhoodTryin' it onFor size. The protector ofOur Community,My family will be soProud of meMy best friend,“Musa,”* (*Mansa Musa, … Continue reading “Remembering Tamir on the 4th of July…” (a poem by Donna Ferrie)
“Tears Laced with Fire” by Keisha Molby-Baez
https://www.amazon.com/Tears-Laced-Fire-Keisha-Molby-Baez/dp/1533508860/ref=sr_1_2?dchild=1&keywords=keisha+molby-baez&qid=1629035407&sr=8-2 Sealey Challenge #15 I had the pleasure of being a featured reader at The Inspired Word back in 2019. I also had the pleasure of meeting Keisha (AKA Coco). I am always amazed by how much rich imagery she creates with words. She was also a Pushcart Prize nominee for her poem, "Birthright" featured … Continue reading “Tears Laced with Fire” by Keisha Molby-Baez
“Deep Thoughts” by James Dean Rivera
https://www.amazon.com/Deep-Thoughts-James-Dean-Rivera/dp/8194900360 Sealey Challenge #14 Many times, people appear in my newsfeed on FB for a reason. James Dean Rivera is one of those people. His work is filled with verses meant to inspire the masses. He is also a spoken word artist and you'd be missing out on a lot by not checking out his … Continue reading “Deep Thoughts” by James Dean Rivera
“Lost & Found” by Michel M. Antoine
https://www.amazon.com/Lost-Found-Michel-M-Antoine/dp/1736216740 Sealey Challenge #13 The next book I am including in this challenge is from a woman I've gotten to know well through the ii Publishing family. I was fortunate to get to know her and be part of her IG Live release of "Lost & Found" We also performed on the same bill at … Continue reading “Lost & Found” by Michel M. Antoine
“The Many Attitudes of Dennis” by M.A. Dennis
https://www.amazon.com/Many-Attitudes-Dennis-Spoken-Poems/dp/0359417329 Sealey Challenge #12 I'd be truly remiss if I didn't include the words of M.A. Dennis in my recommendations. Having done spoken word showcases and open mics with him, I can truly say Dennis is a class act and a talented wordsmith to boot. He is an inspiration to many with his honesty and … Continue reading “The Many Attitudes of Dennis” by M.A. Dennis
“A Moon Magnetized This Screeching Bird” by A.i. Firefly
https://www.amazon.com/Moon-Magnetized-This-Screeching-Bird/dp/B08RH4521J/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=a.i.+firefly&qid=1628683567&s=books&sr=1-1 Sealey Challenge #11 Firefly and I go way back to the art and poetry scene on Staten Island. Along with being a poet, she is a musician, singer, and artist. Many of the poems in this book are short, so you will definitely want to take some time to ruminate on the minimal and … Continue reading “A Moon Magnetized This Screeching Bird” by A.i. Firefly
Jacob R. Moses 