Falling Leaves: an Interfaith Anthology on the Topic of Consolation and Loss

The book gathers more than 40 poems by DC area poets on the topic, organized into sections on New Prayer, Acceptance, Loss, and Healing. Contributors include: Jeffrey Banks, Katya Buresh, Regie Cabico. Chris Farago, Stephanie Gemmell,  Kira Hall, Laura Hart, W. Luther Jett, Jacqueline Jules, Michele Kay, Brian Leibold, Laura Martin, Susan Meehan, Kim B. Miller, Anna Postelnyak, Bernard Riefner, Dominique Rispoli, Jane Schapiro, Ori Z Soltes, Lori Tsang, Phibby Venable, Walter Weinschenk, and Jon Wood.

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The book was edited by Susan Meehan and Robert Bettmann, and produced in partnership with the Washington Council of Churches, and Jewish Artists of the National Capital Region, and through support from the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities and Hazon’s Hakhel incubator.

Arising from a time of unprecedented trauma and loss, this collection of poems sets its readers on a healing journey… An encouraging read for those in despair, and for those just needing to know that they are not alone.

— The Rev. Dr. David B. Lindsey, Interfaith Council of Metropolitan Washington (DC)

Is this collection of contemporary poetry too good to be true?  No! It is real.  This collection will take its rightful place on my easy to reach shelf of books that I will use regularly. 

– Rabbi Daniel G. Zemel, Temple Micah

Read as daily devotions or used in liturgy, the poems are a modern-day source of inspiration, ringing with grace, elegance and power.

– Reverend Kathleen Rolenz, All Souls Church

This poignant collection provides readers with a space to connect, cry, and smile in the truth the poetry speaks.

– Ronni Ticker, Congregation B’nai Tzedek

There is peace and solace to be found reading these beautiful poems.

– Katha Kissman

Cover art for the book is by Michael Janis and Tim Tate, used by permission.