A review by mariannemersereau
Deep Ends by Roberta Schultz

5.0

From a Kentucky poet whose state has received more than its share of water in recent times comes a book that takes the reader off the "deep end" (in a good way) with poems swimming in emotional depth, music, memory and watery images. From its cover painting, "Dear Lake Michigan" through the three sections, "Wade in the Water," "The Water is Wide," and "By the Waters of Babylon," the reader's thirst is quenched by strong narratives, humor, and foot stomping delight as we can hear the drum beat and rhythms that cause these poems to rise to the surface following their deep dives. Schultz pulls from her experience as a life guard, teacher, musician, sister and daughter among other roles in crafting these memorable poems. She also pays homage to another beloved Kentucky poet, Wendell Berry, in her poem, "I Heed Wendell Berry's Advice on How to Poem." As we read this collection, we do indeed "breathe in to flood all senses with the splash" of her wonderful words.