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Witchcraft and Monsters
If there's anything Kala knows, it's monsters.
Witchcraft and Monsters is a debut poetry collection by Kala Godin.
Kala understands that the human body can be its own kind of monster. She knows the way strangers both see her and don't.
There is magic in everything we do.
And there are monsters in each of us.
This collection is broken into five parts.
Witchcraft.
Fairytales.
Bodies.
Bad ideas.
Endings.
Witchcraft and Monsters is a debut poetry collection by Kala Godin.
Kala understands that the human body can be its own kind of monster. She knows the way strangers both see her and don't.
There is magic in everything we do.
And there are monsters in each of us.
This collection is broken into five parts.
Witchcraft.
Fairytales.
Bodies.
Bad ideas.
Endings.
- GenresPoetryContemporary
54 pages, ebook
Published January 21, 2019
2 people are currently reading
58 people want to read
About the author
Kala Godin
5 books6 followersKala Godin (she/her) is a 20-something-year-old author and editor living with a physical disability (Spinal Muscular Atrophy type 2) and is confined to a wheelchair. She has been editing and writing for the last 7 years. She lives in a small town in Alberta, Canada. She's had 3 poetry collections and several short horror stories published. Halloween is her favorite holiday. She likes tattoos, chocolate, horror, and witchcraft.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
December 8, 2018
There isn't really an awful lot to say about a poetry collection - especially a short one like this. With 54 pages, I reached the end before I even noticed and it's not like I tried flying through it either. For some that might mean the poems didn't touch them, didn't leave a mark but that wasn't the case for me.
Sure, as with every poetry collection there will be poems that leave more of an impression than others but overall I really liked most of them. There are some other poems that really hit me as well. Poems that made me ask myself some questions I hadn't really asked before and.. that's what poetry is supposed to do, right? To make you question things, to make you feel, to make you admit certain truths you usually hide away from.
A poetry collection worth reading if you like poetry, if you feel like asking yourself some harsh questions and maybe even if you feel like confronting yourself with even harsher truths.
4 / 5
Sure, as with every poetry collection there will be poems that leave more of an impression than others but overall I really liked most of them. There are some other poems that really hit me as well. Poems that made me ask myself some questions I hadn't really asked before and.. that's what poetry is supposed to do, right? To make you question things, to make you feel, to make you admit certain truths you usually hide away from.
A poetry collection worth reading if you like poetry, if you feel like asking yourself some harsh questions and maybe even if you feel like confronting yourself with even harsher truths.
4 / 5
November 15, 2020
For regular readers of my blog, you will know that when it comes to contemporary poetry, I’m not the biggest of fans. However, a poetry collection that is called Witchcraft and Monsters? I am here for it. When I saw the cover, I requested it immediately. I didn’t even know that it was poetry, I didn’t even read the blurb… I just… well… requested it. And I’m so glad that I did.
If there’s anything Kala knows, it’s monsters.
Witchcraft and Monsters is a debut poetry collection by Kala Godin.
Kala understands that the human body can be its own kind of monster. She knows the way strangers both see her and don’t.
There is magic in everything we do.
And there are monsters in each of us.
This collection is broken into five main parts: witchcraft, fairytales, bodies, bad ideas, and endings. Now, the book is only 53 pages long, so each section is very short. The section that packed the biggest punch for me was ‘Witchcraft’. It was the section where I could relate to the most poems. There were a few other poems throughout the collection where I could relate but the aforementioned section was my favourite.
The thing that I liked the most about this book was that it was darker than most contemporary poetry that I’ve read. I liked the references to Greek Gods, to the devil… Just dark stuff in general. It was definitely speaking to my high school emo side *cue nervous laugher here*. Okay, I’m still kinda in that stage.
Usually, the lack of rhyming is an issue for me. I kind of like the old school style of poetry more where it’s got a rhyming scheme, but that might just be because that’s the only poetry that I’ve read my entire life due to the stupid English curriculum in the U.K. ANNNNYYWWAAAYYY, I digress. Like I said, lack of rhyming is usually an issue, but in Witchcraft and Monsters, it didn’t bother me. I liked the rhythm of the poems.
Overall, I actually really enjoyed this short collection of poetry, which surprised me (in a good way.) I’m still going to say that contemporary poetry isn’t my most favourite type of poetry, but I am learning to look at poetry as texts that you don’t have to consume all in one go. They are collections that you can keep going back to whenever you’re in a different mood, or a different time in your life.
Disclaimer: this book was sent to me by the publisher in exchange for an honest review
If there’s anything Kala knows, it’s monsters.
Witchcraft and Monsters is a debut poetry collection by Kala Godin.
Kala understands that the human body can be its own kind of monster. She knows the way strangers both see her and don’t.
There is magic in everything we do.
And there are monsters in each of us.
This collection is broken into five main parts: witchcraft, fairytales, bodies, bad ideas, and endings. Now, the book is only 53 pages long, so each section is very short. The section that packed the biggest punch for me was ‘Witchcraft’. It was the section where I could relate to the most poems. There were a few other poems throughout the collection where I could relate but the aforementioned section was my favourite.
“I keep
Raising the dead,
Like it’s going out of style.
Rise dead feelings,
Dead issues,
Dead ideas…”
– Kala Godin, Witchcraft and Monsters
The thing that I liked the most about this book was that it was darker than most contemporary poetry that I’ve read. I liked the references to Greek Gods, to the devil… Just dark stuff in general. It was definitely speaking to my high school emo side *cue nervous laugher here*. Okay, I’m still kinda in that stage.
Usually, the lack of rhyming is an issue for me. I kind of like the old school style of poetry more where it’s got a rhyming scheme, but that might just be because that’s the only poetry that I’ve read my entire life due to the stupid English curriculum in the U.K. ANNNNYYWWAAAYYY, I digress. Like I said, lack of rhyming is usually an issue, but in Witchcraft and Monsters, it didn’t bother me. I liked the rhythm of the poems.
“They tell me
I’m more witchcraft than girl.
More wolf than woman.
Like it’s a bad thing
To be the predator,
And not the prey.
– Kala Godin, Witchcraft and Monsters
Overall, I actually really enjoyed this short collection of poetry, which surprised me (in a good way.) I’m still going to say that contemporary poetry isn’t my most favourite type of poetry, but I am learning to look at poetry as texts that you don’t have to consume all in one go. They are collections that you can keep going back to whenever you’re in a different mood, or a different time in your life.
Disclaimer: this book was sent to me by the publisher in exchange for an honest review
November 30, 2018
I received this from netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I wasn't sure about this when I seen the title and when I requested it I did not know it was poems but once I started reading it, I could not put it down.
It was broke down in to 5 sections. The poems to me where great. They seem to be someone fighting there own fears and troubles in life. It brings out the monsters in life that we can sometimes face as well of other small poems.
I really enjoyed this. After reading this, I may try to start picking up more poetry readings.
I wasn't sure about this when I seen the title and when I requested it I did not know it was poems but once I started reading it, I could not put it down.
It was broke down in to 5 sections. The poems to me where great. They seem to be someone fighting there own fears and troubles in life. It brings out the monsters in life that we can sometimes face as well of other small poems.
I really enjoyed this. After reading this, I may try to start picking up more poetry readings.
December 20, 2018
Thanks to NetGalley for sending me an ebook copy of this amazing poetry collection. I flew through it and adored EVERY single poem written. The feelings that resonated with me throughout every single one couldn't be described. I feel as if some of these were written with my life in mind. I will 100% be buying a physical copy to add to my library - I think everyone should read this beautiful collection of poetic work.
February 26, 2019
Thank you to Netgalley for providing me with a review copy.
I gave this a four out of five stars. I really enjoyed the authors writing it was so beautiful. Her poetry is unique and amazing, totally magical. I'm going to end up buying myself a physical copy. You should totally check it out! I loved her writing so much I highlighted some of my favorite lines.
Here are a few of my favorite lines:
"I don't know love in small doses. I know how to spill my entire being out. I know how to love completely."
"I am too much of myself for them, But never enough, Of what they want,"
"I am waiting, For my throne of bone, Blood, and ash."
"She doesn't want to be saved. Doesn't want to be the damsel. of the Fiance. So she'll teach herself how to a tsunami instead."
I gave this a four out of five stars. I really enjoyed the authors writing it was so beautiful. Her poetry is unique and amazing, totally magical. I'm going to end up buying myself a physical copy. You should totally check it out! I loved her writing so much I highlighted some of my favorite lines.
Here are a few of my favorite lines:
"I don't know love in small doses. I know how to spill my entire being out. I know how to love completely."
"I am too much of myself for them, But never enough, Of what they want,"
"I am waiting, For my throne of bone, Blood, and ash."
"She doesn't want to be saved. Doesn't want to be the damsel. of the Fiance. So she'll teach herself how to a tsunami instead."
January 22, 2019
I LOVED THIS BOOK.
This was a poetry book I have been in search of all my life. Beautifully written, relate-able, audacious, and different.
I normally don't highlight when I read, but I found myself highlighting almost every line of this book.
I flew through this book and adored every page.
I enjoyed the distinguished parts of the book each related to witches, monsters, and fairy tales.
This would be a perfect poetry read for Halloween but personally I would read this anytime of year over and over again.
I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys beautiful and dark poetry.
This was a poetry book I have been in search of all my life. Beautifully written, relate-able, audacious, and different.
I normally don't highlight when I read, but I found myself highlighting almost every line of this book.
I flew through this book and adored every page.
I enjoyed the distinguished parts of the book each related to witches, monsters, and fairy tales.
This would be a perfect poetry read for Halloween but personally I would read this anytime of year over and over again.
I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys beautiful and dark poetry.
January 18, 2019
The publisher, Patchwork Press, kindly offered me an advanced reader copy (ARC) of Witchcraft and Monsters by Kala Godin via NetGalley. Yet, this is an honest review of the book expressing my humble opinion.
I found Witchcraft and Monsters to be an exceptionally original and feminist poetry book. The author's passion for each word and need to write this book are easy to see. Kala Godin has taken myths, gods, and tales and span poems that reflect not only her emotions but her the society norms, as well. Some of favorite poems are Predator, Small absolutes, Pyro, The Big Book of Mythology, among many others. The author's ability to take society norms and expectations and retell them by the perspective of a woman is outstanding. The author has really impressed me, and I am truly looking forward to reading more poetry from her.
Witchcraft and Monsters is an amazing poetry book, and I couldn't recommend it more. If you identify as a woman, you'll find a companion and a friend in this book. If you don't, this book will open your eyes to what women face in this world, no matter where you live..
Some her lines will stay with me forever, and many have resonated with me as deeply as a book can reach. Kala Godin and Patchwork Press, THANK YOU. Witchcraft and Monsters is a must-read.
4.5 stars - ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Author: Kala Godin
Publisher: Patchwork Press
I found Witchcraft and Monsters to be an exceptionally original and feminist poetry book. The author's passion for each word and need to write this book are easy to see. Kala Godin has taken myths, gods, and tales and span poems that reflect not only her emotions but her the society norms, as well. Some of favorite poems are Predator, Small absolutes, Pyro, The Big Book of Mythology, among many others. The author's ability to take society norms and expectations and retell them by the perspective of a woman is outstanding. The author has really impressed me, and I am truly looking forward to reading more poetry from her.
Witchcraft and Monsters is an amazing poetry book, and I couldn't recommend it more. If you identify as a woman, you'll find a companion and a friend in this book. If you don't, this book will open your eyes to what women face in this world, no matter where you live..
Some her lines will stay with me forever, and many have resonated with me as deeply as a book can reach. Kala Godin and Patchwork Press, THANK YOU. Witchcraft and Monsters is a must-read.
4.5 stars - ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Author: Kala Godin
Publisher: Patchwork Press
January 22, 2019
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley for free in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
Oh god. This book. It left me in tears, there is so much pain throughout and so many words that hit home with me. Pyro spoke to me the most out of them all, so much so, that it sparked the first tears.
That first line, "I love aggressively" and "Why did nobody burn with me?" ending with "I am too much of myself for them, But never enough, Of What they want." I know all too well what its like to be too much of myself for someone. Many someones. Heartbreak after heartbreak, bridges built and burned all while I'm left standing in the ashes alone.
I've never read poetry, and am not usually a fan because finding the meaning or being able to relate is hard sometimes. I had no problem relating to 90% of this book and feeling the anguish the author felt.
Such an amazing book of poems, and so heartfelt. I will be recommending this to everyone.
Oh god. This book. It left me in tears, there is so much pain throughout and so many words that hit home with me. Pyro spoke to me the most out of them all, so much so, that it sparked the first tears.
That first line, "I love aggressively" and "Why did nobody burn with me?" ending with "I am too much of myself for them, But never enough, Of What they want." I know all too well what its like to be too much of myself for someone. Many someones. Heartbreak after heartbreak, bridges built and burned all while I'm left standing in the ashes alone.
I've never read poetry, and am not usually a fan because finding the meaning or being able to relate is hard sometimes. I had no problem relating to 90% of this book and feeling the anguish the author felt.
Such an amazing book of poems, and so heartfelt. I will be recommending this to everyone.
January 14, 2019
This is my first time reviewing a poetry book so bear with me.
I was on NetGalley and this book cover caught my attention. I ended up requesting the book and even though I’m not a big poetry reader this was a good read.
Some parts of the book hit me more than others but overall it did get me to think and I found myself shaking my head as I read. Even though book is short it still packed a punch. If you’re a fan of poetry, I think you will enjoy this read.
Listed below are quotes that stood out to me.
“I'm like Hermes, In the way I wander. No one place is home, They all are, So long as the ones I love are close.”
“So when you are walking alone, And a wolf greets you with too much sly and not enough soft, Show him your teeth and tear him to shreds.”
*NetGalley Review*
I was on NetGalley and this book cover caught my attention. I ended up requesting the book and even though I’m not a big poetry reader this was a good read.
Some parts of the book hit me more than others but overall it did get me to think and I found myself shaking my head as I read. Even though book is short it still packed a punch. If you’re a fan of poetry, I think you will enjoy this read.
Listed below are quotes that stood out to me.
“I'm like Hermes, In the way I wander. No one place is home, They all are, So long as the ones I love are close.”
“So when you are walking alone, And a wolf greets you with too much sly and not enough soft, Show him your teeth and tear him to shreds.”
*NetGalley Review*
December 17, 2018
NOTE: I received a complimentary ARC of this book from Patchwork Press through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I'm so, SO glad I didn't realise this was poetry until I started reading it. If I had I might not have requested it and then I wouldn't have had the pleasure of reading this amazing collection of poems that deal with fears, inner demons, lost love, self-empowerment, feminism, healing, and hope. My absolute favourite in the collection is Spending My Borrowed Time, followed closely by Millennial Warfare.
I don't often read poetry but based on how much I enjoyed this collection, if it's ever available in physical form I will be buying it asap and I will definitely be reading anything else Kala Godin publishes in the future.
I'm so, SO glad I didn't realise this was poetry until I started reading it. If I had I might not have requested it and then I wouldn't have had the pleasure of reading this amazing collection of poems that deal with fears, inner demons, lost love, self-empowerment, feminism, healing, and hope. My absolute favourite in the collection is Spending My Borrowed Time, followed closely by Millennial Warfare.
I don't often read poetry but based on how much I enjoyed this collection, if it's ever available in physical form I will be buying it asap and I will definitely be reading anything else Kala Godin publishes in the future.
April 8, 2019
Witchcraft and Monsters is a very quick poetry collection that is packed with a lot of feeling. I enjoyed the many references to Greek Gods and fairytale stories, but I especially appreciated reading the poems about disability- as I think it's so important to get different perspectives on how others view and interact with the world. This collection is unique and interesting, and I look forward to the author's future works.
A copy was provided by the publisher via NetGalley.
A copy was provided by the publisher via NetGalley.
December 6, 2018
Synopsis:
In this dark yet magical poetry collection in 5 parts Godin takes you on a journey of finding strength in the dark. Within it's pages you'll find a tale of anger, power, acceptance and resistance of the spirit, body and mind. Sometimes the darkest monsters dwell within and the only way to combat them is to dig deep into the parts of you that you wish you could hide.
─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ─── I received this DRC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review and this in no way sways my opinion about the novel. ─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ───
My Thoughts:
I would just like to first start off by saying that this is a unique blend of fantasy, mythology, fairytale and connection to real life; This book may be short but I know I'm going to be thinking about it for a while and I wish it was longer. I found myself swiping at the end for the next page but there was none, I wanted more.
"They tell me I'm more witchcraft than girl. More wolf than woman."
"Like it's a bad thing to be the predator and not the prey."
It's a collection split into 5 separate parts and each part is true to the description and the poems that are within those parts. The author takes you on a journey of life within her body and the journey she went on to love it even if it may be broken, not enough at times. This was a fantastic #OwnVoices book with Disabled Representation and the whirlpool of emotions that come with having a spirit bigger than the life you may be confined to but finding the independence and love even though it's easy to succumb to the darkness.
"And how many ghosts can she harbor, before she turns into one herself?"
"Then you realize that the pain was never really gone. Just that you hadn't buried it deep enough."
"We may be good at burying things. But we aren't grave diggers."
More than once during this novel I found myself saying "wow" or just humbled by the vulnerability of Kala's voice and experience. I need everyone to go read this.
"I'm here to tell you that the Captain doesn't have to sink with the ship."
"You are not drowning, you are only learning how to swim, and I promise you can do it."
─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ─── Wrap up:
Kala is a member of my bookclub The Lit Coven and I didn't want to mention this until the end so no one felt that the review was not authentic. I am in love with how she blended magic and real life, it somehow made the read more...surreal yet real and I know that makes no sense. I'm just left with a feeling of introspection and wisdom, I look forward to supporting her on every future endeavor. This book was rated 4.5/5 🌟 and was every bit as magical as Kala herself.
─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ─── Thank you for reading!
In this dark yet magical poetry collection in 5 parts Godin takes you on a journey of finding strength in the dark. Within it's pages you'll find a tale of anger, power, acceptance and resistance of the spirit, body and mind. Sometimes the darkest monsters dwell within and the only way to combat them is to dig deep into the parts of you that you wish you could hide.
─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ─── I received this DRC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review and this in no way sways my opinion about the novel. ─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ───
My Thoughts:
I would just like to first start off by saying that this is a unique blend of fantasy, mythology, fairytale and connection to real life; This book may be short but I know I'm going to be thinking about it for a while and I wish it was longer. I found myself swiping at the end for the next page but there was none, I wanted more.
"They tell me I'm more witchcraft than girl. More wolf than woman."
"Like it's a bad thing to be the predator and not the prey."
It's a collection split into 5 separate parts and each part is true to the description and the poems that are within those parts. The author takes you on a journey of life within her body and the journey she went on to love it even if it may be broken, not enough at times. This was a fantastic #OwnVoices book with Disabled Representation and the whirlpool of emotions that come with having a spirit bigger than the life you may be confined to but finding the independence and love even though it's easy to succumb to the darkness.
"And how many ghosts can she harbor, before she turns into one herself?"
"Then you realize that the pain was never really gone. Just that you hadn't buried it deep enough."
"We may be good at burying things. But we aren't grave diggers."
More than once during this novel I found myself saying "wow" or just humbled by the vulnerability of Kala's voice and experience. I need everyone to go read this.
"I'm here to tell you that the Captain doesn't have to sink with the ship."
"You are not drowning, you are only learning how to swim, and I promise you can do it."
─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ─── Wrap up:
Kala is a member of my bookclub The Lit Coven and I didn't want to mention this until the end so no one felt that the review was not authentic. I am in love with how she blended magic and real life, it somehow made the read more...surreal yet real and I know that makes no sense. I'm just left with a feeling of introspection and wisdom, I look forward to supporting her on every future endeavor. This book was rated 4.5/5 🌟 and was every bit as magical as Kala herself.
─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ─── Thank you for reading!
December 6, 2018
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
"It's like I've got
Love poems running through my veins,
Instead of blood."
I knew when I saw that title of this collection that I would love it, and I was right. This was a short, wonderful read that I had a hard time putting down when life forced me to take a break. The poetry was dark and wonderful. Kala Godin weaves beautiful imagery into her poetry and I cannot wait for whatever she writes next.
"It's like I've got
Love poems running through my veins,
Instead of blood."
I knew when I saw that title of this collection that I would love it, and I was right. This was a short, wonderful read that I had a hard time putting down when life forced me to take a break. The poetry was dark and wonderful. Kala Godin weaves beautiful imagery into her poetry and I cannot wait for whatever she writes next.
January 26, 2019
~ ARC provided by Netgalley ~
It was a nice collection of poetry. I enjoyed the different aspects of it, there's really not too much I can say about it. It was a short and easy read, but a good reflection.
It was a nice collection of poetry. I enjoyed the different aspects of it, there's really not too much I can say about it. It was a short and easy read, but a good reflection.
January 8, 2019
*I received a digital copy of this title through NetGalley.
I'm not always the biggest fan of modern poetry collections, but I could resist checking out this title when I saw the cover and description and I'm so glad I did. Though this book is very short, the author's writing is lyrical and descriptive. There were phrases that literally made me suck in a breath because they were so impactful. I can't say that there were any poems within this collection that I disliked and found myself identifying with so many of them.
This collection is broken up into different sections that feel like a natural progression. Not only do the themes evolve and change as you make your way through it, but as you make your way through the poems become more reality and less fantasy. It's obvious that the author has poured herself into this work and truly laid out many of her emotions and thoughts for the reader. That kind of vulnerability is not an easy thing to do and all the more beautiful for it.
I definitely recommend picking this collection up and giving it a read and hope to see more from this author in the future.
I'm not always the biggest fan of modern poetry collections, but I could resist checking out this title when I saw the cover and description and I'm so glad I did. Though this book is very short, the author's writing is lyrical and descriptive. There were phrases that literally made me suck in a breath because they were so impactful. I can't say that there were any poems within this collection that I disliked and found myself identifying with so many of them.
This collection is broken up into different sections that feel like a natural progression. Not only do the themes evolve and change as you make your way through it, but as you make your way through the poems become more reality and less fantasy. It's obvious that the author has poured herself into this work and truly laid out many of her emotions and thoughts for the reader. That kind of vulnerability is not an easy thing to do and all the more beautiful for it.
I definitely recommend picking this collection up and giving it a read and hope to see more from this author in the future.
January 5, 2019
**Thank you to NetGalley and Patchwork Press for the ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review!**
Witchcraft and Monsters by Kala Godin is a love song to a lot of things, but primarily what I get from it is a celebration of the type of woman that I am - the outspoken kind who won't sit down, look pretty, and be quiet. Godin writes with a mastery of quick, punch-you-in-the-face phrases, from "And I burn my bridges, if I have to" to the entirety of the poem "Teeth." Then, in turns, Godin offers a poignant view of life for someone with a "broken body" (I have one of those too), and how loving yourself is a hard thing to do.
My personal favorite poem is "Millennial Warfare," or perhaps "Bone Queen." I also enjoy the little nuanced nods to modern day witchcraft - rose quartz mentioned in a poem about love spells, for example.
All in all, this is a powerful debut collection from a very talented poet, and I only wish that there were more to read - I blew through this collection quickly. I will be on the lookout for more from Kala Godin.
Witchcraft and Monsters by Kala Godin is a love song to a lot of things, but primarily what I get from it is a celebration of the type of woman that I am - the outspoken kind who won't sit down, look pretty, and be quiet. Godin writes with a mastery of quick, punch-you-in-the-face phrases, from "And I burn my bridges, if I have to" to the entirety of the poem "Teeth." Then, in turns, Godin offers a poignant view of life for someone with a "broken body" (I have one of those too), and how loving yourself is a hard thing to do.
My personal favorite poem is "Millennial Warfare," or perhaps "Bone Queen." I also enjoy the little nuanced nods to modern day witchcraft - rose quartz mentioned in a poem about love spells, for example.
All in all, this is a powerful debut collection from a very talented poet, and I only wish that there were more to read - I blew through this collection quickly. I will be on the lookout for more from Kala Godin.
May 10, 2019
**Disclamer: I did received this book via NetGalley. This had in no way, shape or form affected my opinion on it.**
Full review on the blog!
Though some poems were not ringing to me personally, i found most of them really beautiful and had to re-read them more than once, enjoying them a few more times. I quite liked how short this book was, and how much diversity in themes this contained- yet they all tied together perfectly in harmony and emotions.
Full review on the blog!
Though some poems were not ringing to me personally, i found most of them really beautiful and had to re-read them more than once, enjoying them a few more times. I quite liked how short this book was, and how much diversity in themes this contained- yet they all tied together perfectly in harmony and emotions.
Read
June 10, 2022I received an e-ARC from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Poetry has never been my thing, but every now and then I will pick up a great collection that I really love. This is one of those collections. So many of the poems spoke to me, especially "Haunted Houses Look a Lot Like People". I love Kala Godin's voice and how present and almost forceful it is in each of her poems and how honest she is about every aspect of her life -- especially the heartbreak.
Poetry has never been my thing, but every now and then I will pick up a great collection that I really love. This is one of those collections. So many of the poems spoke to me, especially "Haunted Houses Look a Lot Like People". I love Kala Godin's voice and how present and almost forceful it is in each of her poems and how honest she is about every aspect of her life -- especially the heartbreak.
January 4, 2023
I lucked out getting an advanced reader copy and i'm glad I did. Witchcraft and Monsters is a definite quick read. The title alone intrigued me. Part two was my favorite. It was about Greek Mythology and fairy tales, which I totally love! I feel like reading it fed my soul. If you're looking for something different to read, this collection of poetry is it!
January 24, 2019
I received this E-ARC by the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I want to start by saying that I really liked this poetry collection. I want to leave the best for last, so I will continue on to talk about the thinks that could be improved.
First of all, the structure of the poems was a bit weird given that a lot of the first letter in each line was a capital letter even though it caught the word mid-sentence . Also the first and fourth part of this book Part one: On Witchcraft and Part four: On Bad Ideas were a little bit weaker compared to the rest of the collection. Some of the poems in those section felt a little simple. Lastly on the the constructive criticism, I feel like the rhythm of a lot of the poems was a little bit bulky, causing the poems not to flow all that smoothly.
Moving on, I can see that Kala Godin is a fighter and I admire her a lot for it, she won’t give up even when it’s not easy because she is a warrior at heart, which makes this collection the more enjoyable.
My favorite part was Part two: On Immortality and Fairytales, for me the poems in that section were the most powerful ones, the ones I, personally, could connect to the most. I also love mythology and fairytales, so the fact that the author could blend them both to crate wonderful poems was a great treat.
At last, some of my favorite poems were:
-Predator
-The Big Book of Mythology
-Ophelia
-Man Versus Beast
-Teeth
and
-Haunted Houses Look a Lot Like People
And here are my 4 favorite verse, I want to see if they encourage you to give this book a try because it truly deserves it:
“They hate that I wear
The title “Wolf”, like a crown.
Like I’m anything other than
the predator”
“She doesn’t want to be saved.
Doesn’t want to be the damsel.
Or the Fiancé.
So she’ll teach herself how to be
a tsunami instead.”
“So when you are walking alone,
and a wolf greets you with too
much sly and not enough soft,
Show him your teeth and tear
him to shreds.”
“But how many skeletons can a
girl keep in her closet,
Before she starts going to battle
wearing a skull for a helmet,
And a ribcage for armor?”
I want to start by saying that I really liked this poetry collection. I want to leave the best for last, so I will continue on to talk about the thinks that could be improved.
First of all, the structure of the poems was a bit weird given that a lot of the first letter in each line was a capital letter even though it caught the word mid-sentence . Also the first and fourth part of this book Part one: On Witchcraft and Part four: On Bad Ideas were a little bit weaker compared to the rest of the collection. Some of the poems in those section felt a little simple. Lastly on the the constructive criticism, I feel like the rhythm of a lot of the poems was a little bit bulky, causing the poems not to flow all that smoothly.
Moving on, I can see that Kala Godin is a fighter and I admire her a lot for it, she won’t give up even when it’s not easy because she is a warrior at heart, which makes this collection the more enjoyable.
My favorite part was Part two: On Immortality and Fairytales, for me the poems in that section were the most powerful ones, the ones I, personally, could connect to the most. I also love mythology and fairytales, so the fact that the author could blend them both to crate wonderful poems was a great treat.
At last, some of my favorite poems were:
-Predator
-The Big Book of Mythology
-Ophelia
-Man Versus Beast
-Teeth
and
-Haunted Houses Look a Lot Like People
And here are my 4 favorite verse, I want to see if they encourage you to give this book a try because it truly deserves it:
“They hate that I wear
The title “Wolf”, like a crown.
Like I’m anything other than
the predator”
“She doesn’t want to be saved.
Doesn’t want to be the damsel.
Or the Fiancé.
So she’ll teach herself how to be
a tsunami instead.”
“So when you are walking alone,
and a wolf greets you with too
much sly and not enough soft,
Show him your teeth and tear
him to shreds.”
“But how many skeletons can a
girl keep in her closet,
Before she starts going to battle
wearing a skull for a helmet,
And a ribcage for armor?”
January 23, 2019
ACTUAL RATING: 4.5 STARS
I received a copy of Godin's debut poetry from Patchwork Press and I'm so glad I requested it. Coming in at just 54 pages, I didn't expect a great deal of internal response; such a short publication would usually lead to a lack of character development. Instead Godin masterfully weaves the short verses into a emotional rollercoaster.
Upon opening the file, I found myself enthralled. I would have expected to take 2-3 sittings to read this short work, instead I sat and read it cover to cover. The work, although having a generalised theme, speaks of monsters and men, witches and women. At one point she speaks of Cinderella, at another the words flow from the page discussing her being differently abled and her failing body.
Although it was short, this collection of poems made me run the gamut of emotions. Concise but powerful, I loved every page.
I received a review copy from Netgalley and Patchwork Press in exchange for an honest review. Opinions within are that of the author and have in no way been influenced by the publisher or its affiliates.
I received a copy of Godin's debut poetry from Patchwork Press and I'm so glad I requested it. Coming in at just 54 pages, I didn't expect a great deal of internal response; such a short publication would usually lead to a lack of character development. Instead Godin masterfully weaves the short verses into a emotional rollercoaster.
Upon opening the file, I found myself enthralled. I would have expected to take 2-3 sittings to read this short work, instead I sat and read it cover to cover. The work, although having a generalised theme, speaks of monsters and men, witches and women. At one point she speaks of Cinderella, at another the words flow from the page discussing her being differently abled and her failing body.
Although it was short, this collection of poems made me run the gamut of emotions. Concise but powerful, I loved every page.
I received a review copy from Netgalley and Patchwork Press in exchange for an honest review. Opinions within are that of the author and have in no way been influenced by the publisher or its affiliates.
January 22, 2019
"They hate that I wear The title 'Wolf,' like a crown. Like I'm anything other than the predator."
This is an absolutely beautiful book of poetry. Full of metaphor and magic, the words transport you to a fairytale world, transform you into a sword wielding heroine. This though, is not the fairytale of your bedtime stories, but the fairytale of Anderson, or the Grimms. This is a fairytale world where darkness bubbles in the shadows and evil has real presence. The stakes are high, and the good guys may win on the surface but ultimately lose, as everyone in these situations loses something in the end.
I relate to so many of these poems, vaguely relate to some more, and found some I cannot relate to and hope never to relate to. I find myself and people I love between the lines, I find joy and heartbreak in every page.
Standouts: Bone Queen, Ophelia, Man Versus Beast, Teeth, Dear 17, Small Absolutes.
This is an absolutely beautiful book of poetry. Full of metaphor and magic, the words transport you to a fairytale world, transform you into a sword wielding heroine. This though, is not the fairytale of your bedtime stories, but the fairytale of Anderson, or the Grimms. This is a fairytale world where darkness bubbles in the shadows and evil has real presence. The stakes are high, and the good guys may win on the surface but ultimately lose, as everyone in these situations loses something in the end.
I relate to so many of these poems, vaguely relate to some more, and found some I cannot relate to and hope never to relate to. I find myself and people I love between the lines, I find joy and heartbreak in every page.
Standouts: Bone Queen, Ophelia, Man Versus Beast, Teeth, Dear 17, Small Absolutes.
December 18, 2018
*Thank you Netgalley for giving me an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review*
“They tell me
I'm more witchcraft than girl.
More wolf than woman.”
Witchcraft and Monsters is a quick read, it took me one sitting to finish this collection and though it's only 54 pages long, it tells so many things and relays feelings that will tug at you.
It's broken down into five parts; Witchcraft, Fairytales, Bodies, Bad ideas and Endings. The third part, Bodies, is my favorite of all because there was just something in that part that hurt, something that made me sad. This book is really a good read, it has topics relating to acceptance, love, anger and power. The first two parts were a little darker but I like how the book closes with Shipwrecks and Salt Water with the author telling us that sometimes we don't need to get drowned, sometimes we just need to learn how to swim.
“They tell me
I'm more witchcraft than girl.
More wolf than woman.”
Witchcraft and Monsters is a quick read, it took me one sitting to finish this collection and though it's only 54 pages long, it tells so many things and relays feelings that will tug at you.
It's broken down into five parts; Witchcraft, Fairytales, Bodies, Bad ideas and Endings. The third part, Bodies, is my favorite of all because there was just something in that part that hurt, something that made me sad. This book is really a good read, it has topics relating to acceptance, love, anger and power. The first two parts were a little darker but I like how the book closes with Shipwrecks and Salt Water with the author telling us that sometimes we don't need to get drowned, sometimes we just need to learn how to swim.
November 27, 2018
4.25/5 stars
I don't really read poems or books in poetic styles of writing, but this was actually nice. Using a more dark, macabre style of writing actual helps the topics the author is trying to address. It was a quick read as well, so makes it good for those who like to read in short bursts or just all together. I also enjoyed that it was seperated into 5 different parts, each one addressing a different theme and topic, with the last part being a really good closer. This is one I can see people enjoying and to just read on their own time in bed or even at school.
I don't really read poems or books in poetic styles of writing, but this was actually nice. Using a more dark, macabre style of writing actual helps the topics the author is trying to address. It was a quick read as well, so makes it good for those who like to read in short bursts or just all together. I also enjoyed that it was seperated into 5 different parts, each one addressing a different theme and topic, with the last part being a really good closer. This is one I can see people enjoying and to just read on their own time in bed or even at school.
February 1, 2019
ARC provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This poetry collection is very enjoyable, I felt like the author did a good job of interpreting mythology and using it to build these short well-written narratives. There's not much on can say about a short collection like this but I would definitely buy this book to enjoy again or use as inspiration in my own writings.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This poetry collection is very enjoyable, I felt like the author did a good job of interpreting mythology and using it to build these short well-written narratives. There's not much on can say about a short collection like this but I would definitely buy this book to enjoy again or use as inspiration in my own writings.
June 13, 2020
4.5 Stars ( I received an e-arc from Net Galley in exchange for an honest review)
I feel like I haven't seen a lot of poetry collections that include own voices disability rep, which is great that we are getting more diversity in the poetry community. Although I am still relatively new to reading poetry, the doesn't seem common as opposed mental health representation. Witchcraft, fantasy and commentary on how her body has dealt with her disability. Go read this for yourself and check out this amazing collection.
I feel like I haven't seen a lot of poetry collections that include own voices disability rep, which is great that we are getting more diversity in the poetry community. Although I am still relatively new to reading poetry, the doesn't seem common as opposed mental health representation. Witchcraft, fantasy and commentary on how her body has dealt with her disability. Go read this for yourself and check out this amazing collection.
December 5, 2018
This is the highest I’ve ever rated a poetry book
I loved the different themes and how unique each poem was even if they’re talking about the same topic. This collection really speaks to the heart of a woman. Feminism is a really big issue in today’s society (I too am a feminist), and this book shows how much women can succeed without a man by her side. Every poem expresses the inner strength we all have.
I would definitely recommend this book
I loved the different themes and how unique each poem was even if they’re talking about the same topic. This collection really speaks to the heart of a woman. Feminism is a really big issue in today’s society (I too am a feminist), and this book shows how much women can succeed without a man by her side. Every poem expresses the inner strength we all have.
I would definitely recommend this book
January 11, 2019
My Review: This was a very short book of poems that I really enjoyed. I don't really read poety all that much but when this one came up I thought I would give it a try. I do wish this would have been longer. I know shocker there!! I was at the end of this one before I even knew it was over.
Go Into This One Knowing: Poetry, Very Fast Read
February 18, 2019
I went into reading this expecting a book format rather than poetry, but even so, I was not disappointing. It was a very easy read and I enjoyed all the poems. Though light and easy to breeze through, the poems were filled with emotion. Im not a huge fan of poetry but I appreciate the writing style and loved the themes.
July 12, 2019
Witchcraft and Monsters is a fun little book of poetry, some of which I related to and some not so much. My only complaint is that I wanted more of the witchcraft and monster themed poems, as those were the most relatable for me. My favorites were “Witchcraft”, “Predator”, and “Pyro”, which together sounds rather poetic.
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