Published in 2010, Sharks in the Rivers builds on the captivating language and intuitive command of verse form seen in of Ada Limón’s first book, Lucky Wreck. As a poet known for creating intimacy with readers through emotional journeys, and making observations of nature and human’s role within it, this book is nothing short of a wonder.

With the sense of nature and the world in an underlying presence, the poems from this book moves seamlessly between the beauty of life and the depths of what threatens us. Many images, such as rivers, sharks, water, fish, and more, are repeated consistently throughout the book. Limón emphasizes the excitement and passion of just being humans, living life day by day with a multitude of experiences. The book also touched on Limón’s Latina heritage, as the speaker’s family roots are in Mexico.

New York City is a place brought up several times in the book, describing it in a multitude of ways. Instead of writing about the city’s famous city skylines or soaring skyscrapers, Limón writes on the loneliness of the city and its aim to create a deeper connection with nature.

One of my favorite poems from the book is “Fifteen Balls of Feathers.” Even though it’s a bit of a longer poem, all the parts of it, from the words to the narrative, come alive when reading, as when she writes, “Infinity was a difficult concept. / It’s harder now.” Another poem full of emotion is “The Crossing.” When Limón was writing this poem, her step-mom was dying. Unlike many of her other poems, this one had a very particular structure and rhythm, as if it was written for Limón, or anyone else struggling, to keep going.

All in all, the book Sharks in the Rivers pushes people to stay strong throughout all the challenges they might confront in life. The book reminds us that life is all a journey, from crying hours one day to jumping in excitement another day, but it’s important to be open to anything and everything. We’re all in this river of sharks together, but we have to ride it as long as we can.

Sharks in the Rivers can be purchased at your local book seller or online at bookshop.org.