Ordinary Hazards

Disclaimer: I received an ARC from the publisher. No review was expected, I am choosing to review this in the hopes more people find and read this important book.

I went to the Seattle ALA in January for a book signing of my own. While there I carefully avoided the grabby-hand syndrome of taking ALL the books. I allowed myself a small selection. The cover grabbed my eye, and when I opened the book to reveal verse, I slipped a copy into my bag. I'm so glad I did.

Nikki has been through A LOT. Born to a mother with schizophrenia, a father who wasn't sure how to be a dad, and an older sister who did her best to help raise her... trauma was a huge part of her growing up. She found a small voice at six and began writing down her thoughts, stories, and poems. Anything to help her deal with her life and the demands of growing up in the 50s and 60s.

This book is beautifully written in verse. I found myself identifying a lot with what she had to say. Surviving traumatic experiences is rough. It does erase a huge part of the moments we grow up in. This book helped me see where my own memory gaps are and taught me that writing continues to be an important method I have to healing myself. I can only hope to write a poignant memoir as Nikki Grimes has.

Thank you so much for writing this book. It has helped me, and I wish I could give you a massive hug.