This poetry collection gathers twenty-three poets considering the topic of consolation and loss. Through their craft the wisdom of traditions are enlivened and re-interpreted.
"Ringing with grace, elegance, and power." - Reverend Kathleen Lorenz, All Souls Church DC
Contributors include: Jeffrey Banks, Katya Buresh, Regie Cabico, Chris Farago, Stephanie Gemmell, Kira Hall, Laura Hart, W. Luther Jett, Jacqueline Jules, Michele Kay, Brian Leibold, Laura Martin, Susan Meehan, Kim B. Miller, Anna Postelnyak, Bernard Riefner, Dominique Rispoli, Jane Schapiro, Ori Z Soltes, Lori Tsang, Phibby Venable, Walter Weinschenk, and Jon Wood.
Falling Leaves is edited by Susan Meehan and Robert Bettmann, and produced with support from the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities and Hazon's Hakhel Jewish Intentional Community Incubator program. Early response to the book from faith and community leaders includes:
Arising from a time of unprecedented trauma and loss, this collection of poems sets its readers on a healing journey… An encouraging read for those in despair, and for those just needing to know that they are not alone.
— The Rev. Dr. David B. Lindsey, Interfaith Council of Metropolitan Washington (DC)
Is this collection of contemporary poetry too good to be true? No! It is real. This collection will take its rightful place on my easy to reach shelf of books that I will use regularly.
– Rabbi Daniel G. Zemel, Temple Micah
The poets' voices will help you soothe pain, help you contemplate loss, and help you consider possibilities for your limited time on this earth.
- Sharon Freundel, Jewish Educator
This poignant collection provides readers with a space to connect, cry, and smile in the truth the poetry speaks.
– Ronni Ticker, Congregation B’nai Tzedek
There is peace and solace to be found reading these beautiful poems.
– Katha Kissman
The cover artwork on the book is by Michael Janis and Tim Tate, used by permission.