They Will Tell You the World Is Yours: On Little Rebellions and Finding Your Way by Anna Mitchael

I received They Will Tell You the World Is Yours as an ARC from Netgally in exchange for an honest review.

I read a lot of poetry, so I think I have a good grasp on what I like in the genre. Unfortunately, They Will Tell You the World Is Yours by Anna Mitchael fell flat for me. That said, I can admit that it is likely an age thing. I believe this work will be more substantial to younger readers just breaking into adulthood. Mitchael’s prose are solid and there are a few quote worthy lines, but for me I’m looking for that punch me in the gut feeling I get when reading the likes of Sarah Kay, Crystal Valentine, Melissa Lozada-Oliva. or Olivia Gatwood.

One of my favorite things about this collection from Mitchael is the vignette style layout, which lent well to each “They will tell you” section. Again, I think that Mitchael’s prose are very strong, and she is definitely one to watch as her writing experience grows. I truly believe that They Will Tell You the World Is Yours can have a substantial impact on younger readers who might identify more with each vignette. There are moments of brilliance, but my experiences were reading this and just shaking my head in agreement.

I am giving They Will Tell You the World Is Yours a high 3 star because I would absolutely recommend it, especially to first time poetry readers. It is digestible and easy to understand and, in my belief, a great collection for poetry novices. Mitchael is one to watch and I look forward to what she publishes next.