Tina Chang Knihy

A stirring and confident examination of mixed-race identity, violence and history skillfully rendered through the lens of motherhood.

Tina Chang’s poems address the problems of family and heritage, initially inhabiting formally patterned stanzas that mimic the boundaries and bonds that are her subject, and then opening into free(-er) verse as the collection progresses and tries to break out of what has been imposed--both narratively and technically. These are passionate and accessible poems, simple in diction and declaration, elegant in image and syntax.

The collection delves into the challenges of raising a mixed-race child amid political turmoil in the U.S. Tina Chang reflects on her son's blackness and the associated risks in a post-Trayvon Martin world, intertwining themes of safety and childhood. She also draws parallels between these realities and racialized roles in fairy tales, all set against the backdrop of urban landscapes marked by threat and surveillance. Through her exploration, Chang emphasizes the unique language and experiences of mothers navigating these complexities.

The narrative explores the tumultuous nature of existence, capturing the essence of life's unpredictability and challenges. It delves into themes of danger and resilience, inviting readers to reflect on the complexities of living amidst uncertainty. The prose is likely rich and evocative, aiming to engage the audience in a profound examination of life's storms.