High There – Tim Dlugos
Each one of Dlugos’ books speaks to me. But, this one offers something new with each read and new phase of my life I read it in.
Kissing Kate – Lauren Myracle
I discovered this book when I was discovering my own sexuality. Every few years I reread this wonderful YA book to reminisce on the difficulties and magic that comes with being a queer individual.
Dictee – Theresa Hak Kyung Cha
This collection completely changed the way I think about and write poetry. Cha is a LEGEND. Please, please read!
Unruly – Elysia Lucinda Smith
This book of poetry is for every “bad” girl who owns and loves her shit. Smith is an amazing writer and bookstore owner!
The Water Cure – Sophie Mackintosh
This is a new addition to my frequents list. I was SHOOK when I first read this novel and it has stayed with me in my writing inspiration.
KRISTINE ESSER SLENTZ is a queer, experimental poet from northwest Indiana and the Chicagoland area. She is a Purdue University alum who double-majored in English literature and creative writing. Currently, she is earning her MFA in creative writing (poetry) at City College of New York where she is an adjunct professor and a co-organizer of the MFA Reading Series. Some places her poetry has appeared in or is forthcoming include Yes Poetry, Moonchild Magazine, The Shallow Ends, Glass Poetry, Pink Plastic House, Barren Magazine, Crab Fat Magazine, Philosophical Idiot, and Flying Island Journal where she was nominated for a 2017 Pushcart Prize.