AIM Higher, Inc. has unveiled 'I Tell Henrietta,' a collection by acclaimed author Tina Barry that merges poetry and short fiction, marking Barry's third full-length work. The book pushes the boundaries of traditional literary genres, offering a fresh and innovative reading experience through its 40 pieces that weave together themes of family dynamics, romantic misadventures, and the complexities of aging. This interdisciplinary approach is enhanced by nine original artworks from visual artist Kristin Flynn, creating a multi-dimensional narrative that engages both textual and visual senses.
Nathan Leslie, author of 'The Best Small Fictions,' describes the work as 'startling and eclectic, vividly unclassifiable' and 'a must-read for those who love small works containing multitudes.' This praise underscores the collection's unique position in contemporary literature, where it blends various forms to create a cohesive yet diverse reading experience. The book's titular character, Henrietta, serves as both confidant and narrative device, allowing Barry to explore deeply personal themes through a creative lens, with water imagery featuring prominently throughout to symbolize both comfort and potential danger.
Mary Biddinger, a professor at the University of Akron and accomplished author, commends Barry's ability to transform ordinary scenes into 'deeply felt revelations that resonate far beyond the page.' This skill in elevating everyday experiences speaks to the collection's potential to connect with a wide range of readers on a profound level. Barry, a teaching artist at the Poetry Barn and Writers.com, brings extensive experience to this work, with her writing featured in prestigious publications like 'Rattle' and 'Verse Daily', and previous books including 'Beautiful Raft' (2019) and 'Mallflower' (2016) establishing her as a distinctive voice.
The collaboration with visual artist Kristin Flynn, who holds degrees from Parsons School of Design and Rochester Institute of Technology, adds a significant dimension to the book. Flynn's nine original artworks, inspired by Barry's writing, create a unique dialogue between text and image, enriching the overall narrative experience. Reviewer Glynn Young praises 'I Tell Henrietta' as 'one of the most unusual and creative collections I've read,' noting that 'the images are vivid, and the words are as sharp and clear as cut gemstones,' highlighting its potential to stand out in the literary marketplace.
'I Tell Henrietta' represents a meaningful contribution to contemporary literature by challenging traditional genre boundaries and offering a multi-faceted exploration of human experiences. Its release by AIM Higher, Inc., a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting artists, underscores the importance of innovative and boundary-pushing works in the literary landscape. The book is now available in paperback and jacketed hardcover editions through the AIM Higher website and major book retailers, marking an important moment for fans of experimental literature and those seeking fresh perspectives on universal themes of love, family, and personal growth.
