Prelude to Bruise

Purchased this collection while I was reading the authors memoir, “ How We Fight for Our Lives” and found it a fantastic companion. A beautiful collection of poems that can stand alone, I found that it really enriched my experience reading the poetry, to have some of the background of the authors life. Highly recommend getting the two books together

Raw, fresh, like the sap springing from freshly cut wood. I devoured this book and plan to keep it close. Do yourself a favor and buy two copies - you'll want to give one to your lover, your friend, your reading buddy so that someone else can experience this with you, jump in feet first holding hands. You'll be different when you come up for air.

Can only read so many of these at a sitting; they're that powerful. And in such simple, allegorical language.

Such an amazing collection of poems. I had to read it for my Arts in NY class, but do not regret it one bit. We also got to meet the author and he was such an amazing guy, full of honesty and inspiration. Definitely recommend this!

until i read it and discovered it's the kind of book that will always stay with me

I cried through much of this collection of poems. So beautiful yet painful. If this doesn't bring up a flood of emotions, check your pulse.

This is one of the best collections of poetry I've read. Jones is a preacher of the poignant, with echoes of Langston Hughes. Every poem, every line gave me pause, and I'd have to reread to believe the miracle of language. This is a necessary read.

Gorgeous prose and fresh imagery!

One of the best collections of poems I've ever read. I cried a little on each page. I would recommend this to everyone fond of beauty and heartache.