Pole Dancing to Gospel Hymns

In a Nutshell:

Pole Dancing to Gospel Hymns sounds uncomfortable but is ultimately a good read.  It is a collection of poems written by Andrea Gibson, a DIY Book of the Year, and a nominee for the Pushcart Prize. The Pushcart Prize is an award that honors the best poetry, short fiction, essays or literary work published in small presses. Not only is this book entertaining but it is an emotional rollercoaster, leaving its audience feeling the feels and wanting to make a difference. You will never want to put it down. Gibson's use of real life events, people, feelings, and social injustice along with her own truth appeal to her audience. Her work is extremely honest. Readers sympathize with her because she writes how she feels and holds nothing back, letting them experience the real her. Not some ideal society expects of her. This book will open your eyes to some of the simple injustices you glance over every day. People do not think how what they do affects other people. In Pole Dancing to Gospel Hymns, Gibson addresses topics most people are often afraid to discuss. She is an inspiration to all poets, and people. She sparks thought and ignites a voice in people who did not realize they had anything to say. Overall, Pole Dancing to Gospel Hymns left people craving more, always coming back and eventually waiting for more material. 

 

 

 

Why You Should Care:

This book brings a new definition to the word intriguing. Gibson uses her poems as a way to ask the questions people think but are afraid to say. She challenges the ideas we as a society are accustomed to. She opens the door and paves the way for young activists to speak up. She gives people the courage to fight for what they believe in. After reading this book, you will go out and try to make a difference. This book is a chance for people to see something beyond their own lenses. Readers are able to walk a day in her shoes. The book covers experiences she has had such as love, loss, fear, prejudice, judgement and hate.  Pole Dancing to Gospel Hymns has the reader wondering and angered why things like this happen, or why they do not have a love like Gibson and her partner. After reading this collection of poems, you will ultimately become a better person, with a drive to make a difference. This book is amazing; it makes you believe that there are still good people. I would recommend it to anyone who can read. Just to prove my point check out this clip of Andrea Gibson performing "I Do" one of the poems from this book.