Customer Reviews:

• "Serenity is a very special book by a very special writer. Joanne's rhythm is subtle and sometimes dark, two qualities I truly enjoy. I highly recommend this book!" - Sony Holland

• "This is a wonderful book, from its cover with one of my favorites, the Golden Gate Bridge, which always tugs at my heart, to the beautiful verse inside. I can relate to so many of the poems - many of them invoke memories of the past for me. Joanne has so much talent, her writing is incredibly expressive and has the ability to touch one' soul, to bring a smile to one's face, to fill one's eyes with tears. "Red Lanterns" was a special first work - "Serenity" soars beyond! I hope my library becomes filled with Jo's books!" - Carmen Henesy

• "“Serenity”, is very aptly named, not only because it features a poem by the same name, but the chapbook itself is peaceful and appealing. From the beautiful cover, to the light airy way the poems appear on the page – it sets the mood for a soothing encounter - and it delivers! The writing inside, in particular, Nature’s Essence and My Love Sense nourishes my emotional state at the end of a busy day. I became familiar with Ms. Olivieri’s style through “Red Lanterns” and was anxious to read more of her work when I placed my order for “Serenity.” I ordered an extra copy as a gift for my sister too and I am so glad I did – this is special and it deserves to be shared." - Genevieve Harten Borleis

• "San Francisco based poet and author, Joanne Olivieri, has been writing for over 30 years. Her debut chapbook, entitled “Red Lanterns,” was published in August 2005, and was named Poetry Chapbook of the Year 2005 by Muses Review Magazine. The following is a review of Joanne’s second chapbook, “Serenity”, which debuted in March 2007:

What a gift it is to get to know a little about someone through her thoughtful, expressive poetry. Joanne’s work implores the audience to use all of their senses, to journey into her world.

“Nature’s Essence” as well as “Aquatic Wanderlust” give a sense of the author’s own nature and what inspires her. Without a conscious decision, the reader is instantly transported to the seashore and becomes enveloped in the atmosphere, with senses fully realizing the environment that is so beautifully described. Similarly, Joanne touches upon the six senses using scrumptiously rich detail in “My Love Sense.”

Several poems, such as “Beyond the call,” “You remain inside,” and “Encore” speak of the sweet melancholy of remembrance for those who have been lost to us in some way. “Unchanged Melody” also struck a chord, as a thought-provoking, meaningful metaphor for anyone who has felt trapped by the circumstances of their life. “Averting Eyes” hints at secrets held close, never to be revealed. These poems draw empathy and quiet speculation from the thoughtful reader.

“The families we make” is an ode to a friend, and contains a favorite, standout line: “By your example I have learned to expect nothing and give more.” If only we all had such a friend in our lives to inspire us in such a way as this…

Toward the end of the chapbook, a gem of a short story called “4:00 a.m. madness” awaits discovery. This piece brought to mind the writing of Edgar Allen Poe because, using powerful imagery, it leads you on a fear-gripping, suspenseful path of seemingly irrational thoughts that may be all too real. The ending of this tale is unexpected, surprising, and wonderful. A real treat for the reader.

“Serenity” is the title of this chapbook, as well as an uplifting and centering spiritual poem. We recommend savoring this collection, and when Joanne asks the question in the poem “Do you know who I am?” readers can answer that while they may not know everything, they appreciate the gifts she has set forth and wait for more to come." - Lily Emeralde and Emma Dyllan, Phosphorescence Magazine