Month: October 2025

“At the core of each lay suffering; . . .We must try to see one another in this way.”

A review of “Lincoln in the Bardo” in 100 words by Catherine Stover

This novel, set in the time of Lincoln’s son Willie’s death, is the most challenging book I’ve read in years. Its subject is grim, its list of characters exceeds 100, and its style resembles a play, without … Read More

“It was fun, although admittedly difficult . . .”

A review of Mary Jo Bang’s translation of Dante’s “Inferno” in 100 words by Catherine Stover

The world is changing, and in this case especially, I’m glad it is. Traditionally, translators have believed that they should remain “invisible,” and “true” to the text. But is that even possible?  Every translator’s … Read More

“Time to purge . . . impossible futures, manacled to metal desks and manicured lawns.”

A review of “Trace” in 100 words by Catherine Stover

Reading poetry silently can be a mistake when part of the poem’s power lies in the rhythm and music of the verses. When Brenda Cárdenas read her poetry as a keynote speaker at the Wisconsin Writers Association conference, I felt … Read More