Shell Songs is James Miller's first book of poetry. Most of the poems in the book have been previously published in America or abroad. Almost half of the poems in Shell Songs are written in meter while the other half are written in free verse. Although many argue that meter and free verse cannot coexist, James Miller's book shows how music, regardless of the style of writing, is still the fiber that binds all poetry. Indeed Shell Songs is a lyrical delight. And there are several themes that run throughout the book. More than anything, James Miller uses the ocean as a medium for him to explore themes of love, grief, and spiritual understanding. Overall, it is James Miller's ability to use rhyme and meter with the naturalness of human speech that makes his poems so alluring. Many editors have celebrated James Miller's poetry as being Frostian (like Robert Frost) in how it can elevate normal speech to musical and profound heights. In an age when poetry has become anything but beautiful, James Miller stands out as a poet who strives to find beauty and meaning in the natural world. And perhaps most importantly, he is not afraid to show it. Therefore, if you believe beauty still matters and that a human being's life has purpose and meaning, then please read Shell Songs. It will not let you down.                  

Cheers,

James Miller