By the River

"By the River" is a novel written in poetic verse. The story of Harry Hodby is told through small glimpses into his life. One poem about sitting with his friend Linda listening to her read stories she's written, another poem about weeding the patch of daisies that grow at her grave site a year later. We learn Harry's story: his friends, his family, the town where he lives, and his thoughts on life through the most poignant little scenes. I love all of Herrick's works. His characters are so relatable and vulnerable. Each poem is written in the way my thoughts run: slightly disjointed and rambling, but with a clear idea or emotion behind it all. By the river will take you into the mind of a young teenage boy who is learning about friendship, love, family and himself. I highly recommend this book, and I would also like to recommend my favorite Steven Herrick novel: "The Simple Gift".