HOMELAND OF MY BODY New and Selected Poems

Richard Blanco, a Cuban American poet, narrates an intimate collection of poems that reflect on humanity, home, family, identity, and healing. His voice is deep and intense. He enunciates words in English and Spanish with clarity and steadiness. Many endearing moments are conveyed in his tone as he depicts different characters in his life--sometimes his mother, grandmother, and father. At times, listeners will feel his sadness and frustration, as well--for example, when his grandmother would tell him to man up in the face of traumatizing name calling. Some of his narrations are strong and precise, while others are rhythmic, especially his closing poems, which employ repetition and sounds that are almost song-like. Blanco's poems are full of life and warmth. T.E.C. © AudioFile 2024, Portland, Maine [Published: MARCH 2024]