This is a book of poetry that I don't think would be fair for me to rate via the star system. Why? Because the style of Mr. Collins's poetry is not my preferred style of poems. As such, I don't feel that I can judge/rate his book of poetry in any manner that would make sense.

I really, really liked the poem Sunday Drive & If/Then though. If/Then, specifically, will speak for many I think.

(Thanks to Net Galley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Thanks to NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group - Random House | Random for the opportunity to read Water, Water by Billy Collins. He had done it again! Made me smile, chuckle, laugh out loud, and cry. All while feeling joyous and nostalgic and wrapped in words. This collection is truly magical.

Billy Collins has long been my companion. No, I don't know him personally, but when reading him, I feel that somehow he might just know me. "Water, Water" is breathtaking, tearjerking, and wonderful. There is something about it that is so nostalgic and familiar, while at the same time being absolutely magical. Bravo Billy, you've done it again.

For those familiar with poet Billy Collins, "Water, Water" will be like welcoming back a trusted and adored companion.

The former United States Poet Laureate, Collins is a master at writing in ways that are both universal and intimate, familiar yet mysterious. This is very much alive in "Water, Water," a collection of 60 poems focused on the joy and mystery of daily life.

While my usual poetry preferences lean toward Bukowski-esque writers (limited pool, I know), there's something about Collins I absolutely adore. It is, perhaps, his ability to begin, as he states, with clarity before moving into the more mysterious nuances of daily life. It may, perhaps, be his accessibility as a writer, as an instructor (Collins is a Distinguished Professor of English at Lehman College and is currently a member of the faculty at SUNY Stony Brook Southampton), and as a human being.

There's a joy that comes to life in Collins's writing that is absolutely compelling. He brings it further to life when one hears him teach, speak, or read his poetry.

"Water, Water" is a collection that triggered my imagination and felt like a full-on sensory experience. "Against Longing" gripped by beautiful imagery and poignant reality. "Drawing a Pineapple" made me both laugh and dream. I would dare say that "Your Poem" is touching in its simplicity and sense of calling.

There are more poems that I loved here, of course. "Reading the Guest Book," "The Monet Conundrum," "Days of Teenage Glory" and others. Piece of this collection have been published elsewhere, however, they all seem to fit together so beautifully that I found myself fully satisfied by book's end.

For Billy Collins fans, "Water, Water" is a must. For those new to Collins, "Water, Water" will be an introduction to a wonderful poet that will make you want to explore his other works.

Thanks to NetGalley for another ARC! My parents introduced me to Billy Collins sometime ago, and while I found him funny and endearing, I didn't, at the time, get what the fuss was about. Now I'm a little older, the world is a little scarier, and Billy Collins' new collection of poetry hits MUCH harder. Whimsical, lovely, relatable. A great read, just what Doctor Jesus ordered.