The Witch Doesn't Burn in This One by Amanda Lovelace

11/5/2018

SYNOPSIS

2016 Goodreads Choice Award-winning poet Amanda Lovelace returns in the witch doesn't burn in this one — the bold second book in her "women are some kind of magic" series.

The witch: supernaturally powerful, inscrutably independent, and now—indestructible. These moving, relatable poems encourage resilience and embolden women to take control of their own stories. Enemies try to judge, oppress, and marginalize her, but the witch doesn’t burn in this one.

Synopsis from Indigo

PERSONAL REVIEW

I don't often read poetry, which means I very rarely actually review poetry. That said, I loved Amanda Lovelace's the witch doesn't burn in this one and I really wanted to give it some love online.
I loved so many of these poems, so I'm not going to list them individually,but instead give a brief explanation of why I love the collection as a whole.

Excellent Poetic Structure
One of the stand-out features of this collection for me what the unique structure of how Lovelace has written her poems. While some are listed in list format, others have a step-ladder effect, and still others are a slow spiral downwards. Two of the poems that continue to stay burned in my mind was the side-by-side lists about how to prevent rape and how to teach boys not to rape. The starkness of both pages and the repetition of "don't rape" was a punch to the heart; I thought this was beautifully done and really pushes home the message that our culture of blaming the victim needs to end.

Strong Message of Female Strength
It shouldn't be a surprise that this is a collection of feminist poems, calling all women to action in finding their voice and standing up for each other. I love the message behind every poem, where Lovelace had clearly spent a long time coming up with a cohesive message of female empowerment and female strength. The witch will not allow others to hold her back any longer; it is time for all women to find their strength and lose our fear.

This collection is a fast-paced read and one that I think everyone (female and male) should take the time to read. While I'm anxiously waiting for Lovelace's final book in the series to be published, I hope it gives everyone else the chance to pick up her book for the first time and enjoy the journey she brings us on. This was a beautiful collection and one I continue to enjoy and recommend.

FINAL RATING: 5/5