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johnreinhartpoet's review
5.0
There is good reason this book won the 2016 Elgin Award for best science fiction poetry book. Though the author concedes that many of the poems lack poetic elements and Xau is too perfect, this is the book for 2017. After a year when leadership was a hot topic and a shambles, we need reminders about what it means to lead.
I read this book in two sittings, though could have done it easily in one. The poems flow easily separately and blend together seamlessly. The illustrations are a fine addition to the story, but the words themselves ring true.
If, as Garrison Keillor noted in his introduction to "Good Poems for Hard Times," that "the meaning of poetry is to give courage," then I can imagine no more fitting poetry for the coming year.
I read this book in two sittings, though could have done it easily in one. The poems flow easily separately and blend together seamlessly. The illustrations are a fine addition to the story, but the words themselves ring true.
If, as Garrison Keillor noted in his introduction to "Good Poems for Hard Times," that "the meaning of poetry is to give courage," then I can imagine no more fitting poetry for the coming year.
mlatt's review against another edition
adventurous
emotional
reflective
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
5.0
tfrohock's review
5.0
Told entirely in Soon Lee's beautiful poems, each chapter explores a different aspect of King Xau's life as he goes from fourth son to king. Not since I first read Beowulf have I been so captivated by an epic poem told so brilliantly.
Each verse takes the reader deeper into young Xau's life as he matures into an empathetic king. The relationships between the characters are what sealed the deal for me. They are sweet and caring, yet none of them flinch from doing what's hard in life.
Soon Lee's author's note says there are one hundred and thirty poems that continue King Xau's story. I wish I could read them all.
If you love a rousing story told in gorgeous language, I cannot recommend this work enough.
Each verse takes the reader deeper into young Xau's life as he matures into an empathetic king. The relationships between the characters are what sealed the deal for me. They are sweet and caring, yet none of them flinch from doing what's hard in life.
Soon Lee's author's note says there are one hundred and thirty poems that continue King Xau's story. I wish I could read them all.
If you love a rousing story told in gorgeous language, I cannot recommend this work enough.
divadiane's review
4.0
I love this book! It's a great story of a perfect king, the sort of hero we all wish existed. Looking forward to the next installment. Full review forthcoming on Amazing Stories.
trin's review
5.0
Now this...is a motherfucking epic.
I don't think I've felt the mythological and historical weight of something, its sheer status as legend, since The Song of Achilles.
I want to read the comics and watch the TV show and the movies. (None of these exist, but they should.) I am also prepared to purchase action figures.
I don't think I've felt the mythological and historical weight of something, its sheer status as legend, since The Song of Achilles.
I want to read the comics and watch the TV show and the movies. (None of these exist, but they should.) I am also prepared to purchase action figures.
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