It seems the elegant, rising star of poet, Lisa J. Smallwood, has everyone talking. First to take notice was New Black Hollywood Magazine, followed by the Los Angeles Million Women March and now the NAACP. Smallwood's collection is unabashed, deeply introspective and, oh so articulate. Drawn from real-life experience, Smallwood has the rare ability to take us on a journey of splendid persuasions, ranging from the quiet moments of a misty morning in her garden, to the soul's deepest contemplation of despair. Her epic 'Abuse 101' sounds the alarm for female empowerment, while her now, well-known 'Sisters My Sisters' completes her anthology to poetic stardom. With ghostly images that transcend each page, her most recent piece, 'Why Travyon Why?' reflects today's under-current of outrage after the verdict. 'Trayvon' is course, raw, superb. Smallwood's collection makes an excellent gift for anyone in need of stillness and soothing.