Brightwood Street Chronicles

by Deb Rhodes

This is a collection of poems expressing the pain of sexual abuse.

32 pages, Paperback

First published March 25, 2018

Reviews

[A.R. Ashworth · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a difficult review to write because I have to approach her subject matter through misunderstanding. As a man, there is no way I can understand the abiding fear and agony of her childhood sexual abuse, nor its aftermath. Also, the poet is a friend and professional writing colleague, who has read and critiqued my novels. That said, I purchased her book and came to her poetry with an open mind, not having read it before publication.

Rhodes’s poetry is stark and stunning. She pulls no punches. She seems to move effortlessly between the loneliness of betrayal by those who should have loved her (“Oh mother, it’s not your puckered brow which worries me so, but your puckered soul spit-shined once a week…”) to the frantic release she sought through expression (“Let me write, let me write, let me fill up the blank skied night with words.”).

I know from the poetry, however, there was nothing effortless about any of it. It’s clear every word was ripped from her heart and soul.

I’ve read the book, then re-read it, and again. I highly recommend “Brightwood Street Chronicles” to anyone who feels the same need to cry out, or who seeks to better understand the desolation felt by victims of childhood sexual abuse. It’s a worthy read.

[Emilya Naymark · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book of poems is stark, beautifully written, and deeply affecting. For anybody who has lived through sexual abuse, this book is a testament that it's possible to build a life afterward - to love and be successful. The one thing that comes through every poem is resistance and a grim determination to live a normal life. Definitely worth a read.

[Kelley Griffin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Deb Rhodes writes with such raw honesty and vivid imagery. You can taste her anger and feel the struggle of coping with sexual violence at such a tender young age. This poignant collection of poems is beautifully written and will linger with you long after the last page. A must read!

[Anette · Rating 5 out of 5]

A courageous, poetic visit to a place no one wants to go.
A place where so many have been, and so many still are going.
A place that needs light and witnessing.
Let this poetic visit be your guide. It's worth it!