"i want you to know my name because it is all i have left of me. / it is all you will ever need to know." (introductions)

Unfold is Cofer's story through the eyes of poetry and prose. She mentions at the beginning that it's both her story and the story of the Ari she's created for the page, crafting a fictionalized version of the pain she's been through.

I enjoyed the art breaks in between poems. I liked how the sketched style felt like it was continuing on with the diary entry style of the rest of the poetry and prose in this collection!

Unfortunately, I couldn't finish this piece. I didn't realize that there would be so much triggering content covered in Cofer's writing. I struggled with connecting to the earlier poems and unfortunately had to set the collection to the side halfway through because it became a little too intense for me. I'm slightly irritated that - though the effort was put into this piece to add an author's note - none of the topics were given any kind of content warnings. I feel that the level of detail and raw emotion in these pieces deserved warnings.

I would like to think I would try this collection again at a later date. Cofer's writing was very emotional but I did find it difficult to connect to at the beginning and it wasn't my favorite. As of now, I'm undecided and a little deterred from trying this poet again.

Thank you to NetGalley and Central Avenue Poetry for providing me with a copy for an honest review!

Content Warnings: sexual assault, rape, suicide, suicidal thoughts (There might be more, but again, I stopped halfway through and would consider these graphic and urge caution to readers.)

Unfold by Ari B. Cofer is an absolutely stunning collection of poetry and prose that resonated with me on a deep level. More than once, I found myself stopping to reflect on an observation that shook me to my very core with its truth and profundity. Ms Cofer's awareness and vulnerabilities take us on a very personal journey, and my soul felt nourished by every beautiful word.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Central Avenue Publishing for an ARC of this beautiful collection.

I'm absolutely blown away by Ari's latest book. The vulnerability, the way she writes about such painful things with such beautiful language, the way she makes some things metaphors and leaves others completely raw in what they are. This book took me on a journey I didn't even realize until I was so pulled in I had no choice but to continue. I'd absolutely recommend Unfold, whether you're a fan of Ari or completely new to her work.

Thank you to Netgalley and Central Avenue Publishing for the chance to read and review this ARC.