This collection of prize-winning poems by Barbara Blanks carries the reader through the range of human experiences. Perhaps a normal, sensible sequence would begin with Dawn, and end with Dusk or Eclipse, but she chooses to start with light and a kiss from the gods, move through the dark eclipse that sears like dragon's breath, then feel a joyous pulse at the pinnacle of light-and have some fun along the way. Her feet might be "wet from not quite leaping over puddles" but Barb is still willing to "pull the husk away from heaven, and bite into the flesh of the sun."

Barbara Compton's twelfth summer is supposed to be the best ever-and then her world humpty-dumpties when her parents die. Not only must she deal with her older sister (aka Old Grim and Gruesome) as her guardian, but she's threatened with the additional losses of her home, old friends, and her dog. Barbara resists all attempts that would force her to take giant steps into her future. How can she hang on to what's left of the only world she's ever known? Set in the 50s, life might seem simpler then, but death is never easy. Even so,humor still finds its way into the sisters' lives.

Poetry is not a curse word. Poems can be full of pun and nonsense--and I'VE HEARD VERSE is certainly full of something. Barb's word play is strangely amusing, slightly twisted, and simply fun. Suitable for ages twelve and up, these light-hearted and delightful poems may make you see the light--that is, if you think you don't like or understand poetry, this book will either change your attitude or ...Poof! Barb will change you to a pigeon. (see page 29 in the preview.) Contact Barb at www.barbara-blanks.com

Age happens--then everything else hits the fan. When my father-in-law's life changes overnight, mine does, too. These mostly light-hearted stories offer encouragement to others in a similar situation--past, present or future. See Pop romance the Little Debbie brownies, battle against bathing, and enjoy being the "only rooster in the henhouse." Meet the Old Lady Gang at Mayberry, and Bossy Barb, the elf Santa doesn't talk about. Pop's stories also candidly describe how he adjusts to communal living, handles his increasing infirmity and his approaching death from pancreatic cancer. We're all riding the same train, so join us on our simple adventures as we haul ourselves out of the wreckage. (Also available at amazon.com, on Kindle, and at www.barbara-blanks.com)