The 2020 edition of contemporary American poetry returns, guest edited by Paisley Rekdal, the award-winning poet and author of Nightingale, proving that this is “a ‘best’ anthology that really lives up to its title” (Chicago Tribune).
Since 1988, The Best American Poetry anthology series has been “one of the mainstays of the poetry publication world” (Academy of American Poets). Each volume in the series presents some of the year’s most remarkable poems and poets.
Now, the 2020 edition is guest edited by Utah’s Poet Laureate Paisely Rekdal, called “a poet of observation and history...[who] revels in detail but writes vast, moral poems that help us live in a world of contraries” by the Los Angeles Times. In The Best American Poetry 2020, she has selected a fascinating array of work that speaks eloquently to the “contraries” of our present moment in time.
Editorial Review
The Best American Poetry 2020 (The Best American Poetry series) is a compelling work by Paisley Rekdal and David Lehman and Julia Alvarez and Brandon Amico and Rick Barot and Kaveh Bassiri and Reginald Dwayne Betts and Ryan Black and Bruce Bond and William Brewer and Lucie Brock-Broido and Victoria Chang and Heather Christle and Ama Codjoe and Meg Day and Timothy Donnelly and Hazem Fahmy and Vievee Francis and Rachel Galvin and Julian Gewirtz and Regan Good and Christine Gosnay and Jorie Graham and Samuel Green and B.C. Griffith and Rachel Eliza Griffiths and Jennifer Grotz and Camille Guthrie and Janice N. Harrington and Tony Hoagland and Kimberly Johnson and Troy Jollimore and Ilya Kaminsky and Douglas Kearney and Donika Kelly and Christopher Kempf and Steven Kleinman and Jennifer L. Knox and Yusef Komunyakaa and Shara Lessley and Steven Leyva and Cate Lycurgus and Khaled Mattawa and Jennifer Militello and John Murillo and Susan Leslie Moore and Hieu Minh Nguyen and Sharon Olds and Matthew Olzmann and Paul Otremba and Cecily Parks and Carl Phillips and Stanley Plumly and Jana Prikryl and Kevin Prufer and Ariana Reines and Max Ritvo and Clare Rossini and Robyn Schiff and Brandon Som and Jon William Stout and Arthur Sze and James Tate and Craig Morgan Teicher and Lynne Thompson and Matthew Thorburn and Mehrnoosh Torbatnejad and Corey Van Landingham and Rosanna Warren and Robert Wrigley and Ryo Yamaguchi and John Yau and Emily Yong and Monica Youn and Matthew Zapruder that has captured the attention of readers worldwide. With a very good rating of 3.54 out of 5 from 34 readers, this book has proven its appeal to a broad audience.
The book explores rich themes that keep readers engaged from start to finish. The 2020 edition of contemporary American poetry returns, guest edited by Paisley Rekdal, the award-winning poet and author of Nightingale, proving that this is “a ‘best’ anthology that really lives up to its title” (Chicago Tribune). Since 1988, The Best American Poetry anthology series has been “one of the mainstays of the poetry publication world” (Academy of American Poets). Each volume in the series presents some of the year’s most remarkable poems and poets.
This 300-page volume, offers approximately 8 hours of reading time. This edition has been praised for its quality presentation and the depth of content it delivers.
— Reviewed by Editorial App Deal Library ·
Why Read This Book?
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Well-Received by Readers — With a solid 3.54/5 rating from 34 readers, The Best American Poetry 2020 (The Best American Poetry series) has earned its place as a worthwhile read.
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Trusted Author — Paisley Rekdal and David Lehman and Julia Alvarez and Brandon Amico and Rick Barot and Kaveh Bassiri and Reginald Dwayne Betts and Ryan Black and Bruce Bond and William Brewer and Lucie Brock-Broido and Victoria Chang and Heather Christle and Ama Codjoe and Meg Day and Timothy Donnelly and Hazem Fahmy and Vievee Francis and Rachel Galvin and Julian Gewirtz and Regan Good and Christine Gosnay and Jorie Graham and Samuel Green and B.C. Griffith and Rachel Eliza Griffiths and Jennifer Grotz and Camille Guthrie and Janice N. Harrington and Tony Hoagland and Kimberly Johnson and Troy Jollimore and Ilya Kaminsky and Douglas Kearney and Donika Kelly and Christopher Kempf and Steven Kleinman and Jennifer L. Knox and Yusef Komunyakaa and Shara Lessley and Steven Leyva and Cate Lycurgus and Khaled Mattawa and Jennifer Militello and John Murillo and Susan Leslie Moore and Hieu Minh Nguyen and Sharon Olds and Matthew Olzmann and Paul Otremba and Cecily Parks and Carl Phillips and Stanley Plumly and Jana Prikryl and Kevin Prufer and Ariana Reines and Max Ritvo and Clare Rossini and Robyn Schiff and Brandon Som and Jon William Stout and Arthur Sze and James Tate and Craig Morgan Teicher and Lynne Thompson and Matthew Thorburn and Mehrnoosh Torbatnejad and Corey Van Landingham and Rosanna Warren and Robert Wrigley and Ryo Yamaguchi and John Yau and Emily Yong and Monica Youn and Matthew Zapruder is known for delivering quality writing that engages readers with compelling storytelling and well-researched content.
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Well-Balanced Length — With 300 pages, The Best American Poetry 2020 (The Best American Poetry series) strikes the right balance between depth and readability, making it accessible without sacrificing substance.
Reading Recommendations
If you enjoyed The Best American Poetry 2020 (The Best American Poetry series), you'll likely appreciate these similar titles: "The Death of Sitting Bear: New and Selected Poems", "The Best American Poetry 2023 (The Best American Poetry series)" and "The Carrying". These books share thematic elements and stylistic qualities that appeal to the same audience, offering equally engaging reading experiences.
Quick Summary
The Best American Poetry 2020, edited by Paisley Rekdal, showcases a diverse collection of contemporary American poetry from the past year. This anthology features a wide range of voices and styles, highlighting both established and emerging poets. Each poem reflects the complexities of modern life, offering readers a thoughtful exploration of themes such as identity, history, and human experience.
Key Takeaways
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Discover a variety of contemporary poetic voices and styles.
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Explore themes of identity, history, and human experience.
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Gain insight into the evolution of American poetry.
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Appreciate the selection process by a renowned poet and editor.
Who Should Read This Book
This anthology is ideal for poetry enthusiasts, students, and anyone interested in contemporary literature. It appeals to readers looking to deepen their understanding of modern poetic trends and appreciate the artistry of both established and emerging poets. It also serves as an excellent resource for educators and writers seeking inspiration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the guest editor for this edition?
Paisley Rekdal, an acclaimed poet and Utah's Poet Laureate, serves as the guest editor for The Best American Poetry 2020.
What is the significance of The Best American Poetry series?
The series has been a key player in the poetry world since 1988, showcasing some of the most remarkable poems and poets each year.
Can this anthology be used for educational purposes?
Yes, it is a valuable resource for educators, offering a wide range of contemporary poems that can spark discussions and inspire students.
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