I received an advanced reader copy of Survival & Other Surprises and want to thank NetGalley and Casper E. Falls for giving me the opportunity to read this collection of poetry in exchange for my honest review!

When I saw this poetry book, I immediately wanted to read it. As a person who struggles with chronic pain, I knew that this was made for someone like me. I did not expect, however, for this book to bring tears to my eyes while sitting in bed, staving off the pain I live with on a daily basis. Even the cover itself—a stuffed animal in a hospital gown with a mask—struck a chord deep inside me.

“I brought a spoon to a knife fight
now I’m out of spoons and it doesn’t feel right”
- pace your energy in the age of capitalism

This collection is a heavy and raw reflection of Falls' life. There is a thorough content warning at the beginning of the book, which I am extremely grateful for. Please make sure you read the CW and approach this book with care if needed.

It is obvious that Falls poured so much emotion and personal experience into this book, and I am so grateful that someone, somewhere, has had experiences like mine. His ability to connect so deeply with faer intended audience is something that many indie authors fail to do.

“what if I missed my chance
to check under the bed
what if my shadows hide
your silhouette
forever”
- children stories

This poetry is for the sick, the hurt, the queer community, and the healing. If you find yourself associating with any of these, I highly recommend picking up a copy of Survival & Other Surprises.
My personal favorite piece from this collection was furby. As a late ‘90s kid, a former Furby collector, and someone who also wonders if they’ve been turned into a Furby, I cannot tell you how fast this poem grabbed my heart and held on with all its might.

Once again, thank you to Casper E. Falls and NetGalley for allowing me to read this incredible ARC!