amanda lovelace, the bestselling & award-winning author of the “women are some kind of magic” poetry series, presents a new companion series, “you are your own fairy tale” the first installment, break your glass slippers, is about overcoming those who don’t see your worth, even if that person is sometimes yourself. in the epic tale of your life, you are the most important character while everyone is but a forgotten footnote. even the prince.

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Break Your Glass Slippers was definitely an interesting, portraying poetry in a unique way that I’ve not really seen before. Though I’m a little disappointed in SOME areas, they don’t outshine the beautiful content behind Lovelace’s words.

The different sections were very intriguing, diversifying in themes and mood which made the reading experience more engaging. The first section of the collection resembles a therapy or guidance counsellor session between the princess and the Fairy Godmother. The princess details her struggle to combat one of many topics (i.e. fat shaming, bullying, toxic relationships). The following poem is the Fairy Godmother’s voice, advising the conflicted princess and providing guidance. This structure was actually really fascinating, as I’ve never come across this in a poetry collection before and found it very therapeutic.

The remainder of the collection focuses on uplifting topics, as we see the princess grow more confident and sure of herself. She begins to find her voice, setting boundaries when necessary and finding all forms of love from those who EARN it. These topics are SO important, showing the princess and readers how to take control of your own life and make your own fairy tales become reality.

I’m STILL a little perplexed by the fairy tale concept. Many have described this as a retelling, But to be honest, I didn’t really see the fairy tell elements other than the title and the use of the God Mother. The content of the poems were about modern day struggles and trials, with little to no reference to various fairy tales in those poems. This doesn’t make the poems any less powerful, but it did disappoint my fairy tale loving heart.

Lovelace’s collection’s intimate and meaningful, giving guidance to a variety of people with different struggles. The poems are also not as emotionally draining as some other works I’ve read. Some say this is a bad thing. Me? I really enjoyed that. Sometimes, you just want to read a therapeutic book that makes you smile at the end rather than a daunting read. So it really depends on your mood.

Do I recommend this? Very much so. It’s whimsical and thought-provoking, especially for those looking for guidance and emotional release. I’m very curious to read more of Lovelace’s poems.

I recommend this novel if you enjoy: self-help books; language-oriented novels; a focus on alleviating stress, anxiety, and depression; therapeutic reads; free verse poetry; emotionally light poetry.

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