The True Names of Birds, by Susan Goyette

Reviewed by Nico Mara-McKay (Shelf Life blog, August 2011)

Goyette’s first collection of poetry, published in 1998, was shortlisted for the Governor General Award in1999. I initially picked it up because Brick Books kindly sent me a few books to review, and I wanted more context for her work.

These poems revolve around domestic life: her husband, and most especially her children, as well as her own lost childhood, and her relationship with her sister. They’re lyrical and compelling, with a striking use of metaphor.

http://journal.nicomaramckay.com/books-literature/shelf-life-august-2011/