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Angel I. Hawkins is an educator, author, writer, and now, poet. She has taught English to middle and high schoolers and hopes to instill an appreciation for literature among her students, as she has found great solace in reading and writing from an early age. She has two children, whom she adores, named Madison and Henry, and an absolutely stellar husband. She currently resides in New Jersey with her beloved family but simultaneously considers New York City and sunny Southern California home. velvet is her first collection of poetry.
Reviewed by Astrid Iustulin for Readers' Favorite
Love is the central theme of Angel I. Hawkins' first poetry collection, Velvet. This book is divided into three sections with free verse poems in which the author reveals her innermost thoughts and feelings. The poems draw inspiration from objects (a telephone, fabric, lipstick), places (a museum, ballroom, bookshop), natural elements (water, fire), and many other small and big things that are familiar to us. Each poem is remarkable for the vivid images that reveal the intensity of the author's feelings; they also take readers on a passionate journey to understand the human heart.
I have read many poetry collections inspired by love — is not this the strongest feeling we can feel? Few times, however, have I been as enchanted as in the case of Velvet. I cannot believe this is Angel I. Hawkins' first collection because her skill and talent made me think of a seasoned poet. Her poems are clear, and readers immediately understand her mood. They will be emotionally involved by the images Hawkins chooses to convey the intensity of her love because she is honest and straightforward. Whether you are experiencing emotions as strong as these or not, you will nonetheless have the impression that you are in love, too. The author opens her heart in Velvet, but she also helps us fully understand our own. This poetry collection is fascinating, and I heartily recommend it to all poetry aficionados, particularly those who have found love in their lives; they will value it even more.
