Review of For My Beautiful Black Sister

[Chris Agbara]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "For My Beautiful Black Sister" by Nathan B. Brooken.]

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5 out of 5 stars

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Nathan B. Brooken's For My Beautiful Black Sister is a poignant and heartfelt collection of poetry that honors the powerful influence of black women, particularly the author's mother. Through a blend of personal reflection and universal themes, Brooken pays homage to the nurturing, strength, and wisdom embodied by black women, celebrating their resilience and profound impact on society.

One of the book's greatest strengths lies in Brooken's ability to evoke deep emotions and vivid imagery, captivating readers with his admiration and gratitude towards the maternal figures in his life. Each poem serves as a testament to the enduring spirit of black women, highlighting their multifaceted nature and the indelible mark they leave on those around them.

Brooken's writing style is both accessible and profound, making this collection suitable for both poetry enthusiasts and newcomers to the genre. His ability to intertwine personal anecdotes with universal truths offers readers a nuanced understanding of the black female experience, inviting them to reflect on the profound bonds and legacies of the matriarchs in their own lives.

Standout pieces such as "Love without Sex" and "Black Women Remind Me of Books" showcase Brooken's talent for capturing the essence of love, intimacy, and the richness of black women's contributions to society. However, one drawback of the book is that there are occasional instances where the particular lines do not fully convey the intended message; take, for example, the opening of the first chapter. But it is worth noting that these moments are few and do not detract significantly from the overall quality of the book.

Moreover, the professional editing and simple free-verse style of the poems make the collection easy to comprehend and appreciate. However, it's worth noting that some readers who are not Christians may find references to Jesus in certain poems, so it's something to consider before delving into the book.

In conclusion, For My Beautiful Black Sister is a compelling anthology that celebrates the strength, resilience, and enduring legacy of black women. It serves as a poignant reminder of their invaluable contributions to shaping our identities and values, making it a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the pivotal role of women in society. This book, despite the drawback mentioned, deserves a rating of 5 out of 5 stars for its literary delivery and for its celebration of black women's contributions to society.

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For My Beautiful Black Sister
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[Nwachukwu Somto]

I must say, your description of the author's admiration and gratitude towards black women, particularly his mother, resonates deeply. You highlight the book's ability to evoke emotions and vivid imagery, making it accessible to both poetry enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

[Charmaine Mahlangu]

Your review makes me want to read this book . I feel like you have described a book for me as a young black mother and I anticipate reading this book . The author has done an amazing job highlighting exactly what needs to be shared and that's what makes this a good read. Well done.

[Ozioma Isaiah]

"Nathan B. Brooken's *For My Beautiful Black Sister* is a moving tribute to black women, particularly his mother, celebrating their resilience, wisdom, and profound societal impact through evocative poetry and heartfelt personal reflections."