You can definitely tell that at least some of these were written during the height of the pandemic. It was (and still is) a rough time for people and that is reflected in quite a few of these poems.

I received an advance copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review. (The version I read was a finished copy.)

I really enjoyed this collection of poetry, and was able to find meaning & connection in Melody’s words. It is a beautiful book that would be great to give to friends.

The Shift: Poetry for a New Perspective by Melody Godfred is a poetry collection with a theme of growth and change. The collection is fairly simplistic and is a rather quick read.
While this collection felt a bit stronger than her Self Love Poetry collection, I still found it too simplistic for my tastes. At times, it also felt like it had a toxic positivity feeling, which didn't sit well with me.

Many thanks to Netgalley, Andrews McMeel Publishing and the author, for the ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Shift is a beautiful collection of poems that shows the growth and shift in perception. The illustrations in the book adds to the words and brings magic to the pages. The poems are in pairs where the poet notes how she felt about certain aspects of life before the pandemic and now in the after.

As a reader the one thing that delights me is seeing development of character and this poetry collection is exactly that the before and after, the then and now. The poignant low flow ideas touched my heart and that is the beauty of poetry.

This was a respectable collection of poems that dealt with transformations and changing perspectives, in my opinion. The imagery was what I adored most.

Godfred's poetry is both relatable and accessible to a diverse group of readers. In this collection, the author examines the world pre- and post-pandemic (That feels extremely weird to type as I do not believe the pandemic is actually over, but that is beside the point) through both words and illustrations. Contrasting poems are what Godfred is known for and this concept is present in The Shift as well.

4/5

What a delightful, solid poetry book filled with lovely insight about the world we have all just lived in. In this collection you’ll find reminiscence, regret, and renewal. Godfred expertly writes what many have gone through in the past 2 years. She writes about what we’ve learned as a society, and what she’s learned as a human.

Most of the poems resonate with me deeply. I understand her feelings of loss but also of new hope. Some of the poems seemed a little simple and shallow to me, but they have their beauty too.

Speaking of beauty, the illustrations accompanying each poem were excellent. They brought so much to each and every page.

If you’re looking for a poetry book to help you process the last 2 years, or to even feel that you’re not alone, this is the book for you.

I loved Melody Godfred's previous poetry collection, so of course I had to pick up this one, and I am so grateful I got an early copy! Godfred's writing continues to be an easy read and really connects with me. While I still have a special spot in my heart for her previous collection, this one was a wonderful follow up. Highly recommend!

I adored the concept of this book. The poems come in matching pairs, the first is how many of us still think right now, and second is "The Shift", seeing things in a more positive light.

The comparisons were fantastic. As always with poetry, different poems will resonate differently for everyone because we're all individuals with our own thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I believe that there's something in here for everyone.

The illustrations throughout the book match perfectly with each poem and are all stunning to look at! I really want to frame some of them!

Overall, this was a really good read. I can't wait for my physical copy so that I can highlight my favourite poems and make notes about how they made me feel.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

I loved this. Melody's writing is amazing. She speaks of self-love and respect and I value that so much as a woman, who struggles with self-love. The book is beautifully written. I will read it over and over again. HIGHLY recommend.

Probably not the intended audience for this. Very short, very juvenile "poems". Wouldn't call them poems... maybe a better word for them are passing thoughts every tween girl has.
Many 2 page spreads were dedicated to four lines and a doodle which is an unfortunate waste of trees. For 23$ CAD I wouldn't say this is worth it in the slightest. If you do intend to buy it maybe consider sticking to a digital copy and save some trees.

''Who am I without my needs? I am nothing but sand at the shore. Waiting for your tides to push me away. Waiting for you to pull me back.''

While I absolutely loved her ''Self Love Poetry'' book from last year, I didn't quite enjoyed this one. I felt like 50% of the poems were just fillers, simple poems with pretty illustrations.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me an e-arc in exchange of an honest review.

The Shift is about poetry that makes you think and makes you come alive. Makes you see others' perspective on how life is for everyone. Favorite quote is this is the year I thought I get everything I want but this is the year I appreciate everything I have. This quote is so spot on for my life and I am sure so many others. If you need a book to make you think and appreciate your life and self look no further.

Thank you Netgallley for the ARC.

"Right now, all I am, is here, for me"
This was a beautiful collection of poetry made even better by the lovely illustrations. The shifting of perspectives throughout each poem flowed seamlessly. If you like modern poetry, this is the book for you. However, if you are more of a traditionalist, you may not enjoy this book as much. Either way, I think it is worth a read.

I had big expectations when I saw that Melody was publishing another poetry book. I really enjoyed "Self Love Poetry: For Thinkers & Feelers" and was looking forward to this one as well. This is an amazing poetry collection regarding a post-pandemic world. There are some really good poems, some really good advices. This book is mindfulness in form of poetry. I also really liked the illustrations -- simple yet beautiful. Rating: 3/5 stars.

I loved this collection of poems. It completely captivated me with the simple yet impactful lines and the thoughtfully added illustrations that beautifully accompanied them. It begins with a “destructive” thought and follows a thought shift – one that frames a new perspective, like the title describes. Each of these thoughts are ones that many of us have found as a result of living through recent events - making us learn to appreciate each moment in the moment. Each poem left me reflecting even after I finished its contents.

The poems had a clear flow that was easy to follow. It’s a collection I will definitely reread as it left a lasting impression with the many affirmations within it. This book is the first of the author’s that I have read, but not the last as she has definitely become a must-read for me.

Worst series of poems I've ever read. Genuinely cannot think of the words written on here as poetry. It was incredibly uninspiring and boring.

Thanks Netgalley for the ARC.

I am a huge fan of poetry & I loved the cover of this collection! I devoured this book!!

I liked that they were written in pairs & I enjoyed the sketches that accompanied each one. Some of the poems felt like mini affirmations & I know that I will refer back to this collection from time to time.

Very enjoyable & easy to digest :)

Highly accessible poetry, an easy and uplifting read. An interesting reminder to shift one’s perspective accompanied by sweet illustrations. 3 Stars.

Okay guys… here’s the thing, I’ve NEVER desired to read poetry. It was simply never my “thing”, but when I found this beauty on #netgalley I just had to give it a try! Now here I am completely IN LOVE with this book. I absolutely need it in a physical copy!!

The wonderful @melodygodfred provides beautiful self worth and reflective poetry that will completely give you new insight into your thoughts about yourself and the world around you ✨

Let's also appreciate the blissful artwork included on every page of this beautiful book. It truly adds to the tone and highlights the meaning of each poem. ✨