Deaf Republic

Ilya Kaminsky

This little book of poems is stunning. In a straightforward voice it tells the story of a town that goes silent in the face of the atrocities of an occupying force. Illustrated with simple drawing of hand signals the towns people use to communicate, the book is both odd and deeply resonate with our times. This one made many people’s lists of best poetry book of 2019 and I can see why. The writing is beautiful and accessible and the message incredibly relevant. Next time someone tells me they don’t like or understand poetry I am going to recommend they read this.

Recommended.