I read this collection as the President of the United States incited an insurrection at the Capitol, and reading these poems was somehow a balm for that. It helped me to quiet my mind and focus on words that were crafted to express darkness and hope in a moment when both of those feelings were valid and relevant. 

This collection of poems is divided into two parts: darkness and hope, and both speak to the struggles of mental illness. It was relatable. I loved the presence of water throughout the whole collection because water can be a thing that drowns you, but it can also be cleansing and refreshing and life-giving. I think this is probably why I liked the poem "60 Percent Water" so much. 

I've read the opening poem, "Darkness and Hope," several times now, and I can't stop marveling at the diptych form. I read each side individually and then the whole thing together, and it all just works so well. It takes skill to write something like that, and I appreciate that talent in others.

This is a wonderful collection of poetry and I would recommend it to anyone, whether they're seasoned poetry-readers or just looking to dip their toes in. I look forward to seeing what Erica writes in the future!