Reviews for Hourglass Harlequin

  • "Aleks Pavlovic's poetry is raw to the bone. Responsive to the world's weary whimsies, Hourglass Harlequin presents myriad emotional moments that intertwine the profound and mundane, and presents astute self-criticism within fragments of autobiographical revelation. The variety of Pavlovic's poetic language, including the textual images on the page and the musical sounds they arouse, derives from and evokes the wide-ranging passions and frustrations we find from page to page."

    - Daniel Barolsky, Professor of Music

  • "The speaker mixes self-awareness and critique to create an authentic blend of poems. Alternatively cutting and funny, sad and joyful, this 'slice of life' smorgasbord is a joy to read."

    - David Bender, Reader and Philanthropy Professional

  • "The pieces play with imagery, rhythm, and punctuation, giving them the feel of an inner monologue perfect for a cozy afternoon of reading. At times vulnerable...then cheeky...then absurd...this delightful book gives insight into the speaker's exploration of solitude and connection, individuality and togetherness, excitement and dread, beauty and sadness."

    - Jill Brittle, Owner, Jill Brittle Family Law Group

  • "Simple and poignant. Honest and vulnerable. Deep and accessible. ...Strikes a complexity of chords."

    - Allen Baker, Alternative Healing Practitioner

  • "The speaker writes about the world—both its everyday rituals and uncertain future—with wisdom, clarity, and moments of delight. In coping with modern lifestyles, where worth is often tied to speed, productivity, and efficiency, reading her words grounded me in my own humanity."

    - Chloe Ellison, Photographer

  • "Raw and honest, like someone ripping the filter off and saying here's how it really is... This [book] was accessible like having a smart, emotional conversation with someone who's been through it and doesn't sugarcoat anything."

    - Omar Luna, CEO, Lynktel

  • “This is a lovely collection of short poems that explore life, its simple joys and the challenges and conflicts that we face every day. The author gives us a window in her quest for happiness and a balanced life in the face of everyday demands, expectations and distractions."

    - Aleksandra Jovanovic-Hacon, Professor of Mathematics

  • "I love the raw vulnerability expressed in Pavlovic's writings as she invites us to explore the nature of being in all its variety, humor, heartbreak, and joy. The passages in Hourglass Harlequin flow and build upon each other, creating a visceral [and] thought-provoking reading experience. I found myself connecting to ideas and experiences that I hadn't put words to before. A lovely book of poems, Pavlovic makes honest and amusing contemplations on life and invites us to join along with her."

    - Sarah Holmes, Reader