In April 1996, the Academy of American Poets launched National Poetry Month to remind the community that poets have an integral role to play in our culture. After 25 years, it has become the largest literary celebration in the world. Readers, students, teachers, librarians, booksellers, publishers, and, of course, poets, come together to mark poetry’s important place in all of our lives.
Poetry opens the door to be seen, and brings forth a powerful voice to be heard. We learn that we have a common denominator that binds us as human beings, and that we face similar struggles.
One of the best ways you can celebrate NPM is to immerse yourself in some of the fantastic works of various poets. I’ve put together a list of five books from poets you’ll love and will want to follow always.
Jasmine Mans – Black Girl Call Home
Amanda Gorman – The Hill We Climb
Douglas Kearney – Sho
Sonia Sanchez – Collected Poems
Kendra Allen – The Collection Plate: Poems
