After the tragic accidental death of her sister, poet Janet Riehl takes pen to paper and writes her way through her grief. Riehls compilation of poetry touches on one year of healing, taking the reader back to the beginning when notified of her sisters death, to recollections of her sister, through the health and life issues surrounding her aging parents, and finally to the acceptance of her sisters death.

There are many layers of grief, and each of us grieves in our own way. Bereft shorn, torn open, last year.

Riehls recorded journey is deep and heartwarming, yet, sad and contemplative. Each piece takes the reader deep within themselves and encourages a personal search for their own feelings of hurt, pain, and grief.

Of course we know the sun isnt really rising. This phase is a remnant from when we thought the world was flat. And if we sailed too far, wed drop off the edge of the world.

Although a personal journey for Riehl, I felt Sightlines taking me on my own passage through life; remembering those that were here and now gone, giving gratitude for where I am today and looking forward to my own continued journey.

Sightlines: A Poets Diary
Janet Grace Riehl
iUniverse (2006)
ISBN 0595374999
Reviewed by Irene Watson for Reader Views (4/06)