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Is Poetry a Dying Art?

General small press publishers rarely pull in the big bucks. Poetry small press publishers have it even harder. Yet for hundreds of years poetry has been a venue for people to express themselves on all life issues: from love to hate from despair to happiness. Some of the greatest works we know of are poems . . . Shakespeare’s sonnets, Edgar Allen Poe's works, as well as a few childhood fairytales.

Yet, when I saw this article on PBS: Seattle Poetry Publisher Finds Method to Adapt to Changing Cultural Times, I was sad because it reflects how this powerful literary device is struggling to stay afloat. Take a few moments to read what a few passionate poetry fans have been doing to help keep this literary field (and new authors) going.

Chic Lit: Comparing Bergdorf Blonds & Can You Keep a Secret

Bergdorf Blonds by Plum Sykes and Can You Keep a Secret by Sophie Kinsella are two fast paced Chic Lit  books that follow the exploits of twenty-something girls. The books are similar in several ways. Each main character begins the story with a boyfriend, who is gorgeous but inattentive. The main characters are British, although the unnamed narrator of Bergdorf Blonds resides in NYC and is a part of high society.

Both books are fantastically funny, each tapping into the naivety of the main  character. Sykes brings more of a sardonic wit, writing things like, “mascara clots are a federal crime here,” and “a fashion tantrum was brewing” (39). Meanwhile, Kinsella keeps the humor mixed in with a ping of compassion. Can You Keep a Secret’s main character, Emma Corrigan has to over come many obstacles including an awful attention-grabbing cousin and the desire to succeed at work.

All About Book Divas: Online Book Club

BookDivas is an online book club for young adult and college age readers. I have been a member for several years. Just recently they revamped their entire site and message board. Its a fun, positive place that nurtures the book worm in all of us. Authors of YA books frequently visit and answer members questions. Coming up next E. Lockhart mid-July to discuss her upcoming book Dramarama! Best of all, for us fans and readers the site is *free* so sign up today: Book Divas!