Anna Laurene Arnett has assembled in Just A Woman many of not only her own poems, but others written by relatives and friends - all women - to enhance a voyage of poetic enlightenment. She's commented on every poem either with a personal anecdote or something she has learned about poetic forms and how to read, write and appreciate poetry. To Anna, romping through poetry indicates a lively play with words and meaning - a dance of rhythm and rhyme - the joy of a well-framed phrase - the yes of clearer understanding - and sometimes, a glorious enrichment to the soul.

Just A Woman has been compiled for the benefit of people who assume they're not particularly fond of poetry, but are willing to try dipping their toes within its soothing waters nonetheless. You just may find the journey a rewarding and enriching one. She knows she has.

Anna, age 89, is called many things. The better epithets are: wise, delightful, adorable, eager, an eternal optimist, faithful, forgiving, a friend to all she meets, a walking dictionary with a wealth of knowledge and always seeking more.

When asked, "How are you?" she replies, "I'm happy," and she is, because she chooses to nourish happy thoughts.