THE BOOK

I did it!

A colleague asked me how long it had taken me to publish my book of poetry. I didn’t have an immediate answer. I thought at least five years if I think back to when the first seeds were sown.  Then, after further consideration, I realized it was much longer.  If I include when I first started creating the poems I would eventually include, it would be more accurate to say at least thirty years.

When I opened the first box of books from the printer for inspection,  the perfectionist within me immediately noticed design details I wish I had done differently. Then, after a bit of time, I realized those details didn’t actually matter. Instead, I am now feeling incredibly proud of my accomplishment, and the book.

My sister, Holly, gave me the best feedback I could hope for. She said that after an incredibly difficult week, she was experiencing feelings of hopelessness. She sat down in her front porch with her tea in hand, and began reading STORIES THEY CAN TELL. She told me, her perspective shifted. She began to feel restored, hopeful, and was reminded of those things that matter most to her; her garden, gardening, connecting with the plants and nature around her.

In STORIES THEY CAN TELL, the poems and photography have been inspired by a deep respect, and sense of wonder for plants and nature. I believe with every fibre of my being, when we take time to connect with them in a mindful and heartfelt manner, the potential to learn about ourselves and others, is as infinite as nature is itself.

Details for the book include:

• Genre: poetry with colorful photography
• Size: 6” x 9”, 74 pages
• Price: 19.99 Can$

The book is available for purchase here on amazon.ca.

©Cliff Thorbes 2025