Stan Long's "Apprehension" invites readers to ponder the origins of consciousness and its profound connection to the cosmos. The poemFs exploration of seeing, believing, and understanding reflects a deep curiosity about the nature of existence and our place within it. By weaving together themes of inner vision, evolution, and cosmic origins, Long crafts a contemplative piece that resonates with both scientific and philosophical inquiries.

The Basket Weaver" by Clare McCotter celebrates the art of basket weaving, juxtaposing traditional craftsmanship against modern therapeutic practices. The poem describes a newly qualified occupational therapist who embraces basket weaving, despite its outdated perception among peers. The narrator, considered a "basket case," finds solace in creating a basket, symbolizing a sanctuary for thoughts and prayers. Through vivid imagery and a reflection on change, the poem underscores the enduring value of hands-on creativity and its calming influence on the mind.

"Literary Vagabond" paints a vivid and multifaceted portrait of a controversial and dedicated writer, likely James Joyce, capturing the essence of his rebellious spirit, creative genius, and the personal sacrifices that accompanied his literary achievements. Through rich imagery and poignant themes, Ian C Smith offers a compelling glimpse into the life of a literary icon whose works continue to challenge and inspire.

"Rue has a bitter scent" captures the essence of regret and the haunting nature of past mistakes through its vivid imagery and introspective narrative. The poem eloquently conveys the speakers internal struggle with memories and the deep yearning for redemption and reconciliation. Through its exploration of lost love and personal reflection, Ian C Smith offers a poignant and relatable meditation on the complexities of human emotions and the passage of time.

If you revel in lyrical poems that intertwine music with imagery or those that depict life with raw honesty, "Raised Voices" by Bruce Harris is for you. Reviewed by Marie Fitzpatrick, this collection traverses the spectrum from light-hearted to deeply reflective. Harris’s verses breathe life into vivid characters and moments, offering something for every readerFs taste. Whether youFre seeking a smile, a memory, or a moment of introspection, "Raised Voices" is a poetic treasure to revisit time and again. Discover Harris's evocative storytelling at www.bruceharris.org.

"Reflecting" by Ian Butterworth is a poignant narrative that interweaves the past and present through the eyes of a man caring for his ailing grandfather. Set in a dim, quiet house, the story captures tender moments of care and reflection, juxtaposing the grandfathers once-vibrant life with his current frailty. Through intimate, heartfelt prose, Butterworth explores themes of love, memory, and the enduring scars of history. This evocative tale is a tribute to resilience and the deep bonds that tie generations together. Discover the profound beauty and sorrow within these pages.

Experience the magic and chaos of "The Whole Circus" by Oonah Joslin. Follow Pyro, the invisible dragon, as he tries desperately to be seen, only to cause accidental mayhem by setting the Big Top ablaze. Amid the chaos, Pyro learns valuable lessons about visibility and acceptance from his friends: Tickle the clown and Tiny the elephant. This heartwarming tale explores the themes of friendship, identity, and the true meaning of being seen. Dive into a whimsical world where the most extraordinary creatures find solace and understanding in one another.

Step into the vibrant world of "The Show Must Go On" by Oonah Joslin, where every circus act is a blend of magic, mishaps, and heart. When Tiny the elephant’s fear of mice is exposed during a flawless rehearsal, chaos ensues, leaving Tiny humiliated. Enter Pyro, the invisible dragon, who steps up to protect his friend. In this delightful tale, friendship, bravery, and laughter take center stage. Join Tiny, Tickle, and Pyro as they navigate the ups and downs of circus life, proving that the show truly must go on. A whimsical story full of charm and unexpected heroics.

Knotted Fables, Novella Excerpt, by John P. Bourgeois
Based on how frequently she saw the stork and heard the bird's clacking beak, the hare knew she was kilometres ahead of the tortoise. Comforted by this, she stopped to graze at a particularly emerald patch of nettles and dandelions. The run had famished her, but the hare did not want to eat her fill at the banquet. Not in front of the other animals.

The Whole Circus by Oonah Joslin
Pyro the dragon flew around the big top trying to create a breeze, make the banners flap, make the canvas sides billow out -- anything to get seen. He watched the audience applaud as Julianne somersaulted on Tiny’s back. Tiny’s huge feet plodded round the ring kicking up swirls of sawdust. He trumpeted with his long nose, knelt and stood and swished his little tail. They even went 'Oooooooo’ when he did a huge poo -- right there -- on the circus floor.

On the third Tuesday of every month, Elspeth joins her eclectic book group, navigating the peculiar dynamics and varied tastes of its members. This month, Alison presents "CassiopeiaFs Hair," a mysterious book with a murky past linked to her uncleFs strange death in Tangier. Despite warnings of the book bringing bad luck, the group decides to read it. Amidst personal revelations and conflicts, the enigmatic FreyaFs departure and a final twist leave Elspeth pondering the thin line between fiction and reality. A tale of intrigue, relationships, and the unexpected impact of a single book.

After a night of dancing, two elderly couples, James, Charlie, April, and Isabelle, leave the hotel ballroom in high spirits. Drunk on laughter and nostalgia, they reminisce about their youth, especially a memorable night swimming at sixteen. Deciding to relive that moment, they take a train to the beach, where under the cover of night, they strip down and wade into the cold water, feeling young again. This poignant story captures the essence of friendship, the passage of time, and the longing to reconnect with the past. Dive into a tale of joy, reflection, and timeless camaraderie.

The Deadly Poppy Field by L Frank Braum
Our little party of travelers awakened the next morning refreshed and full of hope, and Dorothy breakfasted like a princess off peaches and plums from the trees beside the river. Behind them was the dark forest they had passed safely through, although they had suffered many discouragements; but before them was a lovely, sunny country that seemed to beckon them on to the Emerald City.

Reflecting" by Ian Butterworth is a poignant narrative that interweaves the past and present through the eyes of a man caring for his ailing grandfather. Set in a dim, quiet house, the story captures tender moments of care and reflection, juxtaposing the grandfathers once-vibrant life with his current frailty. Through intimate, heartfelt prose, Butterworth explores themes of love, memory, and the enduring scars of history. This evocative tale is a tribute to resilience and the deep bonds that tie generations together. Discover the profound beauty and sorrow within these pages.

In "Please Please Please Shut Up," Kevin Tosca crafts a poignant narrative around Jacob, a man tormented by the incessant noise of life, symbolized by the playground below his balcony. As he grapples with the clamorous need for attention that permeates society, he questions his own motivations as a writer. Toscas story delves into the tension between silence and expression, solitude and connection, ultimately portraying Jacobs internal struggle with the universal human desire to be heard and recognized amidst the relentless clamor of existence.