Blue Iris: Poems and Essays Paperback – Illustrated, October 15, 2006

Her poems and essays helped me to reconnect to my love of nature. It is a very slim book but I will bring it on my travels for that reason.

Mary Oliver is quickly becoming one of my favorite poets because I’m finding her work so relatable. I ordered a copy of this book after first checking it out from my public library, because it’s the kind of collection I can see myself reading over and over. Similar to the style of Robert Frost, her poetry focuses on observations of nature and it’s relationship to the human psyche, while avoiding being too flowery or abstract to understand. I bought the hardback version and it’s a lovely book that would be a great gift for a nature lover.

I first enjoyed this fine collection of poetry and prose at my local library. I was so taken with its gentle beauty that I purchased copies for my personal library and extras for gifts. This collection has as its focus the natural world: the minute details of sunflowers and grass, of birds and bugs, of smells and colors, of bounty and strife are revealed in utter simplicity. It is a celebration of renewal and faith consistent with Oliver's Pulitzer Prize-winning work.

When I was introduced to Mary Oliver's poems by a new neighbor friend, I took time to choose one book to treasure among all her books. I am glad of my choice. Very beautiful good sized hardcover with photos of pressed flowers here and there scattered. It cost a little more than I usually allow myself to spend, but I know I cherish this copy. This book complies with assortment from poems previously included in her other books, but it has a feel of 'one album' of its own somehow.

It's the wonderful Mary Oliver. If you like poetry about flowers or gardens it's what you want. I gave it as a gift to a gardener woman friend. If you are into another aspect of her poetry then go that direction.

My very first Mary Oliver book and certainly not the last. I highly recommend you check this poet out she is just fantastic and the way she describes nature is breathtaking.

I enjoy her poetry and prose,she Is comforting In these confusing and trying times,a gift from Nature!!

If you are not aware of Mary Oliver, I cannot persuade you in this brief space to begin to love her work. She is so worth a small risk. Wonderfully readable, accessible and uplifting.