Write a Poem, Save Your Life

May 1, 2021
A handbook for using poetry as a journey to self-expression and empowerment. Poet and educator Heller presents a guide born out of her personal experience of turning to poetry to process multiple emotional and physical traumas in adolescence. In her introduction she describes a nomadic existence of "kicking around with a free-spirited gang of musicians, experimenting with drugs and sex, testing our edges, all of us desperately wanting to figure out who we are and what we believe in." Poetry was a lifeline: "Working on poetry becomes a reason to live...a way to channel my overwhelming feelings and make...beauty from suffering." She now leads poetry workshops for students of many ages and backgrounds in schools and institutions, including juvenile detention. The book contains writing prompts designed to bolster writers' self-confidence and develop their skills. They range from the practical (how to make a blackout poem) to techniques for sparking imagination and creativity (such as using photos of your childhood self for inspiration). Heller's encouraging and engaging style of writing and her original voice make this work effective for use by and with young people who are grappling with varied life issues. Student poems are included with each prompt. More than a simple how-to manual, this volume is invaluable for use within and beyond the classroom. Writing advice both practical and inspirational. (Nonfiction. 12-adult)

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May 1, 2021
Due to the ongoing pandemic, it's been a long time since writers and other creative individuals have been able to gather together to share inspiration. With growing Zoom fatigue and an uncertain future, the next best thing may be this motivational guide to writing poetry by poet, singer, and educator Heller, whose approach to nurturing emerging writers centers on authenticity, introspection, and judgment-free self-expression. The book presents dozens of suggestions (""Make a personal time capsule. Think about who you are, what you value, and what you want to be remembered for"") and writing prompts (""Write about a place that feels like home. Describe the space, people, pets, feelings, memories, smells, foods, sights, sounds, and conversations you remember"") as well as samples of poetry produced by younger writers. Heller's light touch and endless encouragement will no doubt unlock creative energies that may have lain dormant. While especially instructive for use with children and teenagers, Heller's warm and caring how-to is also recommended for any adult new to writing poetry and experienced poets looking to enliven their writing practice with fresh or forgotten angles on inspiration.

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