Spring has sprung here in Western New York. The snow is almost gone, except for those dirty piles here and there. I have even broken out the short sleeves (but not the sandals, not yet). Today, my students spent classtime staring out the window. I wasn’t mad — it’s just that I wanted to spend time staring out the window, too.
With spring, comes new poetry books and new poetry news. First, I preordered two poetry books the other day. I have never preordered anything — I always wait for the magic words, “In stock.” But I couldn’t resist. One book was due out at the end of March; the other was due out in April. Guess what? Jehanne Dubrow’s Stateside arrived in my mail today — so yes, this third collection from this talented poet is out on the streets. I know what I’m going to be reading tonight! More good news: I also preordered Sandra Beasley’s I Was the Jukebox — and according to a recent email, this book will also be sent out earlier than expected. I should have this second collection by the end of March.
And have you checked out Alison Stine’s news? Ohio Violence was one of the best books I read last year, so of course, I’m looking forward to Stine’s second collection. Want to know a secret? I’ve heard that Stine is going to be reading at SUNY Fredonia in a few weeks — that’s in my backyard. So I guess, I will have to trek up there to see her….