review 1: I am still very unfamiliar with poetry, but this collection just didn't seem as moving as the other poems I read recently. This is especially true when I compare some of these poems to Louise Gluck's work. Szybist does some interesting stuff with word placement and form and the collection seems cohesive and tightly written around the central theme of the Annunciation. Given that I don't really know what I'm talking about, I figured, "Why not give it three stars?" review 2: In such a short book there is a vast variety of wonderful poems and presentation (structure). In many ways you have a feeling of new discovery as read and savor each page. I particularly liked the poems spiritual themes that are checkered throughout the book. I can certainly see why this book... more was so acclaimed receiving the National Book Award for poetry last year. And too think this is only Ms. Szybist's second collection of poetry! less
