The best part of the movie/story where the character just went through hell but here they come back, battered and bruised but you can tell they are about to kick ass... Right as they come out the fire and burning building!

—Samuel Blanco (and the esteemed Haruki)

This collection speaks to the particular kind of longing that comes in times of pain. It gives words to the unspoken tug of war between trauma and recover, between love and despair, and between hope and fear.

If you have lived through moments in life that have felt unsurvivable, this collection is for you. If you feel trapped in a cycle of thoughts inside your own head, this collection is for you. If you refuse to give up on the goodness of humanity, despite so many warnings to do so, this collection is for you. And if you are stuck in the darkness right now and are desperate to find the light, this collection may be that light for you.

— Madeline Charne

And My Blood Sang by Maia Brown-Jackson is a powerful collection that packs a strong punch in a bite-sized package. This chapbook faces themes of trauma and tragedy and turns the pain of womanhood into a work of art. Brown-Jackson beautifully captures the rage of trauma and the struggle of healing in a succinct yet descriptive manner. A wonderful debut that leaves the reader eagerly awaiting more!

— Sarah Blakely, author of Volcano Girl and Scarlet & Shadows

In her first collection, And My Blood Sang Maia Brown-Jackson grapples with the complexity of trauma and healing. Alternatively dreamlike and sincere, the poems evoke a past "when dark nothingness comes claiming." The singular voice at work in these poems is one we want to follow as it oscillates between mind and body, past and present, ultimately offering a moving reclamation of healing and narrative.”

— Alise Alousi, author of What to Count

My academic work and CV can be found here.

further praise for And My Blood Sang

Step into the world of "And My Blood Sang" and prepare to be swept away on a journey of profound emotion, resilience, and the enduring strength of the human spirit. Maia Brown-Jackson's collection of poetry is not merely a book to be read; it's an experience to be felt, cherished, and revisited time and time again.

From the very first page, Brown-Jackson's words dance across the mind, painting vivid images of pain, beauty, and the interconnectedness of our shared humanity. Drawing inspiration from the struggles of the Yazidi people in Iraq, she masterfully delves into the darkest corners of human experience, exploring themes of trauma, resilience, and the power of community.

What sets "And My Blood Sang" apart is Brown-Jackson's unparalleled ability to distill complex emotions into breathtakingly simple yet profound verses. Each poem is a carefully crafted work of art, resonating with a depth and authenticity that speaks directly to the soul.

As I immersed myself in these pages, I found myself transported to a world where words have the power to heal, to uplift, and to inspire. Brown-Jackson's intimate exploration of her own journey, intertwined with the collective struggles of humanity, creates a tapestry of emotion that is as captivating as it is thought-provoking.

But perhaps what I found most remarkable about "And My Blood Sang" is its ability to leave an indelible mark on the heart. Long after I turned the final page, the echoes of Brown-Jackson's words lingered, reminding me of the resilience that resides within each of us, waiting to be discovered and embraced.

In conclusion, "And My Blood Sang" is more than just a book of poetry; it's a testament to the power of art to illuminate the darkest corners of the human experience and to find beauty, strength, and hope in the most unlikely of places. Whether you're a seasoned poetry lover or new to the genre, this collection is a must-read that will stay with you long after you've closed the cover.

— Jithendra Jithru

In 'And My Blood Sang,' Maia Brown-Jackson weaves words with a rare skill, creating a poetic tapestry where meaning is bound neatly between inked and un-inked spaces. Her mastery of language invites readers into an intimate dialogue, making this collection feel like a conversation between old friends, or just as easily, one between wayward traveling strangers. Each verse carries a weight of emotion, leaving a lasting impression that resonates deeply. Brown-Jackson's ability to succinctly express complex emotion is nothing short of remarkable, making this book a testament to the transformative power of poetry and the connection it forges between author and reader.

—Tara Sullivan, Freelancer and Nomad

"And My Blood Sang" by Maia Brown-Jackson appears to be a powerful collection of poems centered around themes of resilience, community, and the enduring human spirit.

The poems draw inspiration from the Yazidi people's struggles in Iraq. Brown-Jackson delves into the depths of human experience, exploring the darkness of pain and brutality alongside the unwavering strength found within individuals and communities.

The collection seems to be a testament to the enduring human spirit. Despite facing unimaginable hardship and suffering, there's an undercurrent of hope and resilience. The poems may acknowledge the scars left by struggle, but they also celebrate them as symbols of survival.

The poems hints at a personal connection, with Brown-Jackson herself grappling with the complexities of human experience. This vulnerability may invite readers to connect with the poems on a deeper level, finding solace and strength in shared experiences.

I myself felt a very deep connection with the authors words, all the poems are connected and feel like one entire thing.

Overall, "And My Blood Sang" promises to be a moving and thought-provoking collection. By exploring themes of suffering and resilience, it may empower readers to confront their own challenges and find strength within themselves and their communities.

— Rutuja Ramteke

further praise for And My Blood Sang

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