4 out of 4 stars
Share This Review
In this autobiographical collection of poems, author, Michele Renatta, shares her personal challenges and pain. Tear Open My Soul and See Through Me is a poetic diary rich with moments of melancholy, pain, growth, and love.
Michele’s childhood was one of sadness and confusion. The mistreatment she endured from her cruel mother and alcoholic father lead to a lifetime struggle with depression and the loss of her self-worth. The encouragement from her loving grandmother was her only solace. When her grandmother passed away, Michele spiraled into a deep depression. With this loss, and dark memories of her childhood, Michele struggled to find a reason to carry on. With pain and sorrow weighing heavy on her heart, Michele begins to fight the demons keeping her from finding peace and the will to survive.
The author shares the wisdom she gained from each profound experience in her life. A child thinks that she is beautiful until someone tells her that she is ugly. The hurtful words of others cut so deep that the scars never completely fade. It is only when we find our inner strength that we learn to wear those scars like a badge of courage. Depression is such a common affliction, but sufferers feel isolated. This story is a reminder that, even in our darkest moments, we can find strength and we are not alone.
It took true courage to publish this book. I admire the author’s bravery. She opens the book in such a relatable way that I felt an instant connection to her story. The poems that tell the story of Michele’s troubled childhood are heartbreaking, but I found an elegance in the rhythm of the words.
There is such inspiration within the words of these poems. They are beautifully written and a pleasure to read. There are two minor grammatical errors within the text, but they do not disrupt the flow of the story. Poetry readers will like this book. The poems are written so gracefully that romance readers will also enjoy the story.
I rate this book 4 out of 4 stars. There is a poem in this collection for every emotion and many stages of life. This is a story that you continue to think about long after you put the book down. I enjoyed this short read so much that I read it twice, and I have no doubt that I will read it again.
******
Tear Open My Soul and See Through Me
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon
Like JessNWheeler's review? Post a comment saying so!