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To Chase the Sun
To Chase the Sun is a collection of work that charts one poet’s journey from the darkness back into the light. This search for hope is reflected in his stages of healing from Chaos, to Order, and Beyond.
"I find that I am in love with the night, perhaps it's nought but an ache for the sun." -- Craig Randall
"I find that I am in love with the night, perhaps it's nought but an ache for the sun." -- Craig Randall
- GenresPoetry
92 pages, Paperback
Published June 9, 2022
7 people are currently reading
22 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
July 31, 2022
I'm going to admit, I have not been a fan of poetry...nor, do I seek to read. However, when my booksta friend published this little gem at a time I felt like I was in a dark place with the world, I thought I'd give it a go!
This book, in my opinion, was a little bit of a journey to happiness! Craig writes about something that the world could use in abundance right now...HOPE! Well my friends...here is Craig's little bit of 'hope' for you. It is short, sweet and to the point! I loved it! Craig has made me a fan of poetry. (That's not to say it is going to be read constantly...but if I feel down and out, I will look for something beautiful to lift my spirits!).
Are you a poetry lover? What are some of your favorites?
From 'To Chase the Sun', here are a few of mine....
~Beauty
~To Chase The Sun
~May the Rainfall Be
~Ernest Truth
Pick up this book! It will not disappoint!
This book, in my opinion, was a little bit of a journey to happiness! Craig writes about something that the world could use in abundance right now...HOPE! Well my friends...here is Craig's little bit of 'hope' for you. It is short, sweet and to the point! I loved it! Craig has made me a fan of poetry. (That's not to say it is going to be read constantly...but if I feel down and out, I will look for something beautiful to lift my spirits!).
Are you a poetry lover? What are some of your favorites?
From 'To Chase the Sun', here are a few of mine....
~Beauty
~To Chase The Sun
~May the Rainfall Be
~Ernest Truth
Pick up this book! It will not disappoint!
January 29, 2023
(I finished this book last year but was waiting for the right time to review it. Since then I have reread it. Been rather busy and most of my reviews on here are sloppy, more like a diary. I wanted to give the collection the review and attention it deserves. So finally, here it is!)
My first thoughts were that the introduction was raw and honest. I appreciated the way Randall explained how their poetry evolved as time went on. How the poetry became like an epiphany and transformed in something more positive overtime along with the mindset that wrote it.
The way the collection was sectioned was brilliant, great choice of titles (Chaos, Order and Beyond). Although, I'd hoped there would be a more balanced amount of poems in each section. Then, I suppose it's hard to comment on someone's reality that has manifested into a book.
The poems were beautiful! Raised important questions within self-reflection. Not an ounce of self-pity. Empowering in a gentle way.
'Fractured: a study of self' was written so eloquently, yet hard-hitting. I felt a belonging in these words. Some of the best literature I've read in quite a while! 🙌
I found a few grammar mistakes, mostly the inconsistent use of capitals at the start of lines and incorrect use of dashes. Some parts I found difficult to read but as a dyslexic myself, I miss a lot within my own writing so I don't consider it a massive issue and it doesn't take away from the poetry's overall message, in my opinion.
Many of the poems had nature imagery accompaning philosophical conversation, which I'm a massive fan of!!
Smaller poems like 'Orbit', 'Rushing Streams' and 'Thunderous' (to name my favourites) packed no less punch than longer ones.
There were some rather romantic poems 2/3 through, these were immersive and so so sweet! It was nice to see some new structures explored too.
I'm grateful I was given the opportunity to read this by the kindness of the author!
I give this book a 4.5 stars ✨ and am excited for the release of the following collection!
My first thoughts were that the introduction was raw and honest. I appreciated the way Randall explained how their poetry evolved as time went on. How the poetry became like an epiphany and transformed in something more positive overtime along with the mindset that wrote it.
The way the collection was sectioned was brilliant, great choice of titles (Chaos, Order and Beyond). Although, I'd hoped there would be a more balanced amount of poems in each section. Then, I suppose it's hard to comment on someone's reality that has manifested into a book.
The poems were beautiful! Raised important questions within self-reflection. Not an ounce of self-pity. Empowering in a gentle way.
'Fractured: a study of self' was written so eloquently, yet hard-hitting. I felt a belonging in these words. Some of the best literature I've read in quite a while! 🙌
I found a few grammar mistakes, mostly the inconsistent use of capitals at the start of lines and incorrect use of dashes. Some parts I found difficult to read but as a dyslexic myself, I miss a lot within my own writing so I don't consider it a massive issue and it doesn't take away from the poetry's overall message, in my opinion.
Many of the poems had nature imagery accompaning philosophical conversation, which I'm a massive fan of!!
Smaller poems like 'Orbit', 'Rushing Streams' and 'Thunderous' (to name my favourites) packed no less punch than longer ones.
There were some rather romantic poems 2/3 through, these were immersive and so so sweet! It was nice to see some new structures explored too.
I'm grateful I was given the opportunity to read this by the kindness of the author!
I give this book a 4.5 stars ✨ and am excited for the release of the following collection!
June 22, 2022
To Chase the Sun is a collection of honest, insightful, and soulful poems written by Craig Randall during a personal time of darkness. Using the written word to cope with feelings of anxiety and depression, the resultant works are emotionally charged, despairing, and raw at times, but always provide a glimmer of hope…a light in the midst of the darkness.
It’s a reminder that healing can be achieved by using various art forms as therapeutic devices, channelling our pain and transforming it into something inspirational and beautiful.
The poems in this collection, both long and short, are vividly and skillfully written. I was deeply immersed in the imagery, enjoying the wordplay, the emotional journey, the different stages of healing. I literally felt compelled to read the entire collection in one sitting. I recommend this book for anyone who enjoys reading beautifully written poetry.
It’s a reminder that healing can be achieved by using various art forms as therapeutic devices, channelling our pain and transforming it into something inspirational and beautiful.
The poems in this collection, both long and short, are vividly and skillfully written. I was deeply immersed in the imagery, enjoying the wordplay, the emotional journey, the different stages of healing. I literally felt compelled to read the entire collection in one sitting. I recommend this book for anyone who enjoys reading beautifully written poetry.
July 2, 2022
I am by no means a poetry reader, frankly I sucked at the poetry unit in school. With that said I loved the way Craig laid out his introduction with enough backstory for you to understand and relate to his mindset in writing these beautiful poems. For some of them I could really relate to the emotions of having anxiety and living through it. Others were just light and pretty.
If you enjoy poetry and want an uplifting read this is definitely the book for you
If you enjoy poetry and want an uplifting read this is definitely the book for you
June 15, 2022
This is a book of healing, of honesty, and of finding the light even in the darkness. This is a book of hope and a book of self love in the face of our perceived failings. It's a short but emotionally resonant read with poems I've bookmarked to read again and again. This beautiful book of poetry will be accompanying me to the beach all summer because it has the perfect blend of raw heart and hope. An extra ray of sunshine I'll carry with me.
July 1, 2022
To Chase the Sun is an extraordinary of poetry. It’s a journey through the darkness of depression into the light of hope and healing. The poems are thoughtful and deeply expressed. I thoroughly recommend all of Craig Randall’s work. He is a gifted writer, his words speak directly to the human heart.
June 30, 2022
Beautiful and honest words that encourage the reader to dwell in hope. Recommended for human consumption. Read aloud.
June 18, 2022
To Chase the Sun is a fantastic collection of poems that represent different moments throughout the author's journey through overcoming anxiety and depression. I personally found it very relatable, even to the point where I teared up reading a few of his poems. It was a great read, and I'm really have to have been an ARC reader for this book!
June 10, 2022
An epic collection of poetry centered around the process of healing through life's traumas and challenges. This is an essential read to break the taboo behind mens' mental health issues. The introduction alone is truly inspiring for all.
June 16, 2022
While I don't deal with depression, I have loved ones who do. I often struggle to understand what they are going through. This book gave me insight into the challenges they face and the deep-rooted desire for hope that's often buried by those negative emotions. The author explained his journey out from the cage of depression in an eye-opening introduction which allowed me to better grasp what my loved ones might be experiencing. The poems reflect how he coped with these emotions and found a place of hope. Many contained a poignant line that caused me to think more deeply about the world around me. It's a fast read full of precious nuggets. Disclaimer: I received an advanced copy of this book for review.
August 2, 2022
To Chase the Sun is a collection that sheds light on the importance of understanding what pain has to teach you before you can truly begin healing. These poems delve into what it means to be human in a variety of forms.
The haikus were some of my favorite pieces in this collection. They provided a good break from some of the more lengthy pieces (which I also enjoyed). I also loved the use of negative space and formatting in pieces like “Rise” and “Whole” where every line break feels like it has purpose.
The haikus were some of my favorite pieces in this collection. They provided a good break from some of the more lengthy pieces (which I also enjoyed). I also loved the use of negative space and formatting in pieces like “Rise” and “Whole” where every line break feels like it has purpose.
March 28, 2025
”Make not your thoughts your prisons.”
--William Shakespeare
DISCLAIMER: Craig Randall and I have known each other via social media for a couple years now. His poetry and shining positivity has brought light to many days, and I couldn’t be more grateful. During that time, he very generously sent me three of his poetry collections. There weren’t any stipulations regarding reading them in exchange for an honest review or anything like that. I’m reviewing them of my own accord. My opinions are my own. Thank you, my friend.
Going in to this read, I was confident I would enjoy it, as I’d read some of the poetry that he’d shared on his Instagram stories, and I knew they came from a very deep and personal place, but I never expected to connect with it as fast as I did. In fact, the opening paragraph of the Introduction reeled me in immediately. I recognized a lot of myself and my mental health struggles in his story. I didn’t expect that.
”If a person lives in darkness long enough, their vision can blur. We can learn wrong to mistake it for the light—thinking that’s all there is. Or at least grow far too comfortable thinking you don’t deserve the light.”
I could go on forever, quoting the beautifully tragic truths of his story (for instance, the entirety of the second paragraph,) but I’m trying to keep the sharing of quotes to a minimum, because it’s my review and I’m less interested in replicating what he wrote, and much more interested in giving my opinions, personal insights, and the ways they impacted this unique reading experience.
Divided into three apt sections, entitled “Chaos,” “Order,” and “Beyond,” I liked “Chaos” the most, simply because it contained most of the longer poems, and as a personal preference, I get the most out of poems with more substance to them. There’s nothing wrong with haikus with just a single stanza (Craig Randall managed to convey a lot with such extreme brevity,) but nothing makes me more giddy than reading a poem that’s very relatable and that I can really sink my teeth into its meaty bits and be moved by the words. That’s what he did here, again and again. He made me feel seen and welcome. I felt less alone, knowing in my heart and mind that if he could earnestly sit with the fear and uncertainty of—sometimes crippling—anxiety, as well as the perpetual sadness, insecurities, and all those awful symptoms of depression, and come through the other side with this beautiful book, then I could gradually heal from my mental health stuff, too.
I am so incredibly grateful for this book.
Similar to the last book I read, And My Blood Sang by Maia Brown-Jackson, To Chase the Sun very much reminded me of a fictional story with an undisclosed narrator, except neither one are fiction. The poems in Randall’s collection are less connected to one another, by which I mean that anyone can read a verse from it randomly, and not have to be familiar with what came prior or after. They don’t require a lot of context, although reading them chronologically makes a lot more sense, almost like when you read a standalone novel. That comparison’s not exact, but I think it works well in attempting to describe my personal experience. Regardless, watching his journey unfold with such brevity, creativity, and grace gave me ubiquitous joy. I can’t stress enough how happy reading it made me feel.
One of my favorite poems was “I Take My Thoughts with Me,” and so I thought I’d leave you with an excerpt:
I take my winter gloves and hat, and travel past the hidden falls, above the sheer stone path I walk—above the vast farm-tread fields.
I take my wild thoughts with me, far deep into the wilderness, to realign them, sort the soul—to refashion my mind anew.
Highly recommended!
I’m eager to dive into Among the Wildflowers and Rain Songs
(Books II and III in his trilogy.)
September 20, 2022
4.5/5
I have anxiety and taking this journey with Craig while he clawed his way through the the depths of his own anxious mind was like coming home
This poetry was a friend who sits quietly with you when you're spiraling. A weighted blanket keeping you from floating away. Some of the poems felt as if someone put my own mind on the page which was so comforting knowing I'm not alone. I'm not currently strugfling with my anxiety, thankfully, but I remember it well and spend time worrying it will come crashing back - anxiety about anxiety, how fitting.
After reading this I am SO EXCITED for Craig's 2nd book of poetry which should be out Spring of '23. Among the Wildflowers will be more of the mindspace I'm currently in (post-anxiety) and I'm hoping I can connect to it in the same deep way To Chase the Sun spoke to my soul.
I have anxiety and taking this journey with Craig while he clawed his way through the the depths of his own anxious mind was like coming home
This poetry was a friend who sits quietly with you when you're spiraling. A weighted blanket keeping you from floating away. Some of the poems felt as if someone put my own mind on the page which was so comforting knowing I'm not alone. I'm not currently strugfling with my anxiety, thankfully, but I remember it well and spend time worrying it will come crashing back - anxiety about anxiety, how fitting.
After reading this I am SO EXCITED for Craig's 2nd book of poetry which should be out Spring of '23. Among the Wildflowers will be more of the mindspace I'm currently in (post-anxiety) and I'm hoping I can connect to it in the same deep way To Chase the Sun spoke to my soul.
June 17, 2022
The moving poetry in To Chase the Sun is instantly recognizable to anyone struggling with anxiety/depression - even without reading the beautifully written forward. If you know someone who struggles with either or both of these, it’s an apt insight into their mind.
It accurately and achingly displays the struggle to find a life-vest of hope in a sea of seemingly unending despair. But what I love about this book is that it sails relentlessly towards optimism, and offers every single reader a seat on the boat.
Definitely one that will stay with me and that I’ll turn to in my own times of drowning. But a recommended read for everyone in any stage of their mental health journey!
It accurately and achingly displays the struggle to find a life-vest of hope in a sea of seemingly unending despair. But what I love about this book is that it sails relentlessly towards optimism, and offers every single reader a seat on the boat.
Definitely one that will stay with me and that I’ll turn to in my own times of drowning. But a recommended read for everyone in any stage of their mental health journey!
July 1, 2022
A healing read
In the beginning of the book Craig starts out by explaining where his mindset was when he started writing the poetry. I felt like reading where he was mentally during the writing process helped me connect to the poetry even more. The poetry itself was phenomenal. I’ve struggled with anxiety and depression for as long as I can remember and I found Craig’s poetry to be like a breath of fresh air. It reminded me that I’m not alone mentally, I could feel myself healing with him as the poem progressed. I highly recommend To Chase the Sun to anyone who struggles mentally themselves or know anyone who does.
In the beginning of the book Craig starts out by explaining where his mindset was when he started writing the poetry. I felt like reading where he was mentally during the writing process helped me connect to the poetry even more. The poetry itself was phenomenal. I’ve struggled with anxiety and depression for as long as I can remember and I found Craig’s poetry to be like a breath of fresh air. It reminded me that I’m not alone mentally, I could feel myself healing with him as the poem progressed. I highly recommend To Chase the Sun to anyone who struggles mentally themselves or know anyone who does.
June 17, 2022
Simply beautiful. Craig has a stunning way with words, painting beautiful images and provoking new ways of thinking about the world. He finds beauty and meaning in the seemingly mundane, inspiring me to want to do the same. While each of the poems can stand on its own, the collection as a whole shows a beautiful journey of learning to feel and understand your pain and suffering but not let it swallow you whole. This is a book I'll be going back to again and again.
June 24, 2022
In his introduction, Craig speaks of his own journey to healing and says, “I learned there was something in me worth saving.“ I think that single line summarizes the depth of this collection. The trajectory of each poem calls that part of you—the part yearning for hope, healing, and purpose—into existence and gives it validity. At our core, we all contain pieces of potential inside of us that are intended to make this world more beautiful and bright, and Craig’s work pushes us to explore those truths.
July 1, 2022
This book begins in Mr. Randall’s chaos, settles into order, and then shifts into what comes after. The beyond. You can feel the emotions, and for anyone who has struggled with mental health, this book would be a great companion to have when you’re feeling chaotic and need to relate, crave some order, or simply desire some food for thought.
June 19, 2022
Beautiful! Craig opens up about his hardships, unraveling his mental health journey through a unique tapestry of insights and poetry with little gems of wisdom. Craig’s writing is a gentle and loving reminder to have faith when the night is dark, and that you are never alone.
June 23, 2022
To Chase, the Sun is a collection of poems and an engaging perspective on mental health. It gives a profound understanding of the challenges one's faces when dealing with angst, depression, and anxiety. Each poem is emotionally resounding and unique. A reminder that no matter what we go through, hope is binding.
July 17, 2022
*** i was offered an advance copy of To Chase the Sun for an honest review ***
craig randall weaves such wonder, such glory, between each and every word. a highly and gifted and passionate writer, randall breaks down his own personal views and moments of tribulation when it has come to the battle of anxiety and depression that so many of us face today. i have thoroughly enjoyed craig randall’s work for quite some time and i am so immensely proud of this collection that he has released to the world. if you or someone you know have been standing on the battlefield and are war-torn from ongoing storm, i highly recommend that you pick up craig randall’s book and let in a little sun.
craig randall weaves such wonder, such glory, between each and every word. a highly and gifted and passionate writer, randall breaks down his own personal views and moments of tribulation when it has come to the battle of anxiety and depression that so many of us face today. i have thoroughly enjoyed craig randall’s work for quite some time and i am so immensely proud of this collection that he has released to the world. if you or someone you know have been standing on the battlefield and are war-torn from ongoing storm, i highly recommend that you pick up craig randall’s book and let in a little sun.
July 21, 2022
Your written heals and eventually makes a person understand deep within themselves. Thanks for this beaut Rendition of poems. Loving it.
July 28, 2022
As someone who rarely reads poetry, this book drew me in at page one. I took a chance and am glad I did
June 27, 2022
I received an ARC of To Chase the Sun in exchange for my honest review, but I also purchased my own copy because we could all use a little book of hope in our collections. Craig Randall has put so much emotion and truth into the works of this collection and as you read you can't help but go on this emotional journey within its pages. It's the first poetry collection I have read/bought, and recommend it to anyone looking for a little sunshine in these gray times.
July 25, 2022
This was an interesting read, a collection of poetry divided in three sections, marked by the style of poems found therein. I definitely perfect the order and the beyond sections of poetry more. The book's poetry is as the book says largely about hope and occasionally a place of finding hope. I enjoyed it.
July 19, 2022
Normally I can't concentrate on reading, but this book stuck with me in more ways than one.
July 12, 2022
I recommend reading the introduction to learn the background and structure of this poetry book before diving in. The author’s words resonated with me and my experiences with anxiety and depression. Similarly, don’t skip the afterword. A final lovely poem awaits.
When I read a book like this, I only tackle 1-2 poems a day, reading each one 2-3 times so the words sink in and I have space to reflect. (That means I was able to enjoy this book for longer than my usual reads too!)
These poems are vulnerable yet hopeful so I’ll likely reread this book in future. I bookmarked a few poems that spoke strongly to me so I can easily return when I need encouragement.
Thanks to Craig Randall for the gifted copy—and for turning your feelings and experiences into words that bring hope to others.
“The light will rise to watch the darkness burn.”
When I read a book like this, I only tackle 1-2 poems a day, reading each one 2-3 times so the words sink in and I have space to reflect. (That means I was able to enjoy this book for longer than my usual reads too!)
These poems are vulnerable yet hopeful so I’ll likely reread this book in future. I bookmarked a few poems that spoke strongly to me so I can easily return when I need encouragement.
Thanks to Craig Randall for the gifted copy—and for turning your feelings and experiences into words that bring hope to others.
“The light will rise to watch the darkness burn.”
July 31, 2022
Heartfelt Poetry
Reviewed in the United States on July 27, 2022
I follow this writer on Instagram. I’ve been reading his work for a while, and just finished reading this beautiful collection of heartfelt poetry and prose. This is the real stuff, relatable, bringing fourth emotions you may not have realized you had. Excellent writing. Bringing help to so many in a beautiful way!
Grab this now you will not be disappointed!
Reviewed in the United States on July 27, 2022
I follow this writer on Instagram. I’ve been reading his work for a while, and just finished reading this beautiful collection of heartfelt poetry and prose. This is the real stuff, relatable, bringing fourth emotions you may not have realized you had. Excellent writing. Bringing help to so many in a beautiful way!
Grab this now you will not be disappointed!
July 13, 2022
This isn’t your average book of poetry; it’s a beacon. Reading, I could see someone trapped in the dark, lifting their face toward a light they were too afraid to chase—a roadmap in meter chronicling one person’s escape. Inspiring and beautiful.
July 6, 2022
I loved this lovely book of melodious and expressive poetry. This book is unique in that it is broken up into three sections that chronicle the author’s personal journey with depression. You start with Chaos, move to Order, and end with Beyond. I have favorite poems from each section. If you have been touched by depression or anxiety, you will find this compilation very relatable and touching. It is also a book for everyone as it contains intricate and well written verse. This is a must read for poetry lovers! I read this book in one sitting on the beach. This is a book that I will want with me every time I travel. It is a powerful read on the human condition, struggling, and abundantly overcoming! Don’t miss these exquisite poems and the powerful story that they tell.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews