Nuanced and tender, this collection of chiaroscurooffers us synonyms of light, and names Lucille Clifton as its brightest.

With a powerful introduction by Ross Gay and a moving afterword by Sidney Clifton, this special anniversary edition ofTheBook of Light offers new meditations and insights on one of the most beloved voices of the 20th century.

Though the collection opens with thirty-nine names for light, we soon learn the most meaningful name is Lucille-daughter, mother, proud Black woman. Known for her ability to convey multitudes in few words, Clifton writes into the shadows-her father’s violations, a Black neighborhood bombed, death, loss-all while illuminating the full spectrum of human emotion: grief and celebration, anger and joy, empowerment and so much grace.

A meeting place of myth and the Divine, The Book of Light . And what a life she creates! Won’t you celebrate with me?