Shanta Acharya presents an enthralling collection of poems that explore the human experience in all its diverse colors with Dear Life. "Loneliness" is a beautiful poem that equates loneliness to a professional assassin who strikes without mercy while the victim desperately clings to life. "Staying Alive" narrates the experiences of a person who struggles to come to terms with the ramifications of the pandemic that upturned lives all over the world. "I Can't Breathe" is a poignant reminder of the gross misuse of authority displayed during the George Floyd murder. Riddled with doubt, the narrator yearns for the company of a loved one in "Thinking of You." "Against the Odds" is an empowering poem that celebrates the resilience of the human spirit amid adversity. "Sunflower Seeds" pays homage to those who lost their lives on the whims of tyrants.

Dear Life is truly an eclectic collection and contains poems that touch upon a broad spectrum of ideas and themes related to the human condition. From observational and confessional poetry to poems that tackle themes of love, war, loss, faith, and spirituality, Shanta Acharya displays a lyrical flair that feels unique and authentic and makes you introspect as well as think about the state of the world. Acharya's poetic storytelling is very immersive, as the carefully crafted stanzas invigorate both your mind and soul. These poems delve into some of the darker facets of humanity, yet they also leave you with hope and act as a soothing balm for your soul. Acharya's poetry style is intimate, but the universal themes will strike a chord with readers everywhere, regardless of background. Highly recommended.

Dear Life by Shanta Acharya is a collection of poems with many relatable observations and thought-provoking essays. The author shares her views on various engaging topics, including abusive marriage, COVID-19, violence, love, change, secrets, war, and cancer. In Strange Bewildering Time, Shanta writes about misery, a deadly virus, and preserving the earth. The poem If beautifully captures the wonder of life and nature. The Tree Huggers brings our attention to a heartbreaking historical event about an unjust killing in Khejarli, Rajasthan, in 1730. We not only follow poems about the culture and history of India but are also reminded of important political issues involving the US and countries in Europe. From blissful memories to personal struggles and essays about serious world problems, Shanta's book offers a worthwhile and awakening encounter with poetry.

Despite being poetry, Shanta Acharya's writing sometimes feels like a collection of short stories, which I loved about this book! One of my favorite poems, Taste of Childhood, made me remember my carefree childhood days with its collection of natural delights: "You spent orgasmic afternoons sucking mango, munching raisin, almond, and cashew, waiting for a flash of kingfisher’s indigo blue." I liked that the poem titles give us an idea of what the poems are about. The poems are usually concise and constructed to stick to a central topic. Ultimately, Dear Life is the creation of a poet who is passionate about the victims of war, the earth's preservation, and philosophy. The book is a must-read for those who are also passionate about these topics. It's a brilliant book for readers who enjoy poems about human experiences. A smooth mix of storytelling elements and poetic tools.