“There is an essential kindness in [Ernest] Hilbert’s poems, a humanity of perspective that treats even its most abject subjects with humor and empathy, regardless of their foibles. But what makes Hilbert’s poetry great—what gives his poems their power—is his sheer mastery of poetic form. . . . These are poems of real depth and resonance, gorgeously constructed and brilliantly executed. . . . It is refreshing to read poetry that doesn’t have to bullshit about what it is. Hilbert can write a sonnet that sounds so natural—and so casually American—that heard aloud, one might not even recognize it for what it is. Or rather, one would recognize it for exactly what it is: great poetry.” – Joshua Mensch

Read the full review here.