Peter Makuck's Mandatory Evacuation was recently reviewed by Sonja James of West Virginia newspaper, The Journal. The review has high praise for both the book and the poet: "Peter Makuck’s Mandatory Evacuation is the finest collection of poetry to date by one of America’s most accomplished writers."
The review highlights Makuck’s ability to keenly observe the world around him and then transform these observations into "graphic and exquisite imagery . . . Throughout this enchanting volume, Makuck dazzles us with his close reading of the world. In the title poem, 'Mandatory Evacuation, Late August', he allows us entry into the troubled center of his imagination as he expresses his thoughts when preparing for a mandatory evacuation."
James concludes: "Peter Makuck’s Mandatory Evacuation is a volume of poetry pinpointing the lyric necessity which informs a good poet’s way of perceiving the world. Makuck’s greatness lies in his ability to render fleeting moments in concrete and accessible images. These are thoughtful lyrics which succeed because of Makuck’s heightened sensitivity to the activity around him. Life and beauty and poignancy are present here as Makuck masters the act of carefully depicting his surroundings."
Click here to read the full review.
Mandatory Evacuation is available now at the BOA Bookstore.