Tada! The Good Parts Review!

Dadadaaaaa. Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls (y'all shouldn't be reading this - go to your rooms!), what you've all been waiting for: My review of Sky's book, The Good Parts: Erotic Poetry for Women is finally here!

First, confession time, I didn't read the book in it's entirety (I skimmed everything, but this is poetry and it needs to be read). But, but, but - I didn't have to in order to give my review, because it's good, y'all. I mean, real good. I think the truest indicator is that every time I pick it up and read, I have a new favorite poem.

OK, let me give you some background: I originally found out about this book because my buddy, Sky, wrote it. Her nom de plume is S. Valentine King (not really a nom de plume, but I like that phrase; it sounds cool.). Previously, I hadn't actually read any of her poetry, even with her teasers on her Myspace site and blog (see below for links, but read the review first!). However, in the interest of OKMG, I asked Sky if she would let me read it and do a review and, since what writer will give up free advertising/pimpin', she agreed! I was also intrigued by the notion of erotic poetry.

I took a look-see. And, boy, am I glad that I did!

When I read a few poems to T, we both commented how Sky was a great writer and that she uses words well. There are a wide variety of poems ranging from the barely sexual to the hints of S&M to the in-your-face lovely visuals (she uses the word wet a lot). My current favs are: The Vagina Song, for its Vagina Monologues-inspiration; Do You Speak, for it's slam poetry feel; and, my absolute favorite, Go Softly into Me, for the way it makes me feel after I've read it.

I was surprised that the book on the whole wasn't more blatantly sexual. But I realized that erotic does not always equal in-your-face sex (that's called porn, folks). The Good Parts is more like a fine wine, designed to be sipped and savored slowly versus porn, which is more like beer and meant to be taken in big gulps.

Finally, a vignette from the author:

I write because I make a better poet than nun. I write to give words to others who lack them. I write to stimulate, to inspire. I write because I find beauty and wish to share it with others around me. I write so I will be heard. May my words open a loving dialogue between women positively enhancing their lives.

(To which I say: WORD!)

Well, that's all for now folks. Sky, I hope that I did your book justice with my review.

Now y'all have a job to do: First, go buy the book and share it with someone special. Second, go check out the author's Myspace site. Third, go check out her blog (updated with poems occasionally). Fourth, enjoy!

Sunshine