DENVER - ColoradoDesk -- Inked Elephant Publishing (https://inkedelephant.org/), a dynamic, author-centered publishing house dedicated to empowering storytellers to create impactful, transformative works, recently announced "Shaking Off The Ashes", a groundbreaking new poetry anthology, is open for presale now and set to release January 20, 2025.

Offering readers a profound exploration of healing and recovery through 59 previously unpublished poems and curated from a diverse group of ten neurodivergent and neurotypical poets, this collection brings together a tapestry of voices that delve into the complexities of overcoming scars that remain forever etched in our being —scars that, though invisible, cannot be fully erased. Contributors include Lee Barron (https://www.instagram.com/leebarron936/), Jennifer Fulton Bryant (https://www.instagram.com/jenfb1972/), Deb Campbell (https://www.instagram.com/debs_terroir/), Erin Gallegos, Kris Lingenfelter (https://www.instagram.com/kristinruth.knoll/), Maura McLaughlin (https://www.instagram.com/maurasworld/), Kirbee Miller (https://www.instagram.com/kirbeeandco/), Faith Scott (https://www.instagram.com/_faith.scott/), Melanie Sue Hicks (https://www.instagram.com/inpursuitmelsue/) and Sarah Hanson (https://www.instagram.com/sarahhansonwrites/).

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The anthology is a thought-provoking and intimate reflection on the nonlinear nature of healing, where recovery isn't defined by a straightforward path but by a series of cycles: falling, returning and rising again. Each poem invites readers to embrace the emotional landscapes of pain and resilience, ultimately redefining what it means to heal and grow.

""Shaking Off The Ashes" is not just a poetry collection; it's a collective journey," said Melanie Sue Hicks, curator. "These poems challenge the traditional narratives of healing. They show that true recovery isn't linear or simple — it's messy, cyclical and profoundly human."

The anthology stands out for its inclusive approach, showcasing the voices of both neurodivergent and neurotypical poets, each bringing their own unique perspective on trauma, resilience and the courage to begin anew. From quiet introspections to fiery declarations, the poems move fluidly between the personal and the universal, offering a model for how to navigate life's inevitable challenges.

Highlights from the collection include diverse perspectives, offering readers an expansive and multifaceted view of recovery; emotional depth, exploring deeply personal themes of loss, love, growth and the courage to rise again after being broken; and provocative and raw, highlighting the messiness of healing and making it a relatable and transformative reading experience.

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"Poetry asks the reader to ponder universal questions through a very narrow and specific lens," said Sarah Hanson, contributing editor. "By bringing personal stories forward through poetry, these authors invite the reader to engage with their own specific instances of collapse and transformation. The duty of the poet is to reflect truth so the reader can find themself in the words."

"Shaking Off The Ashes" is available for presale at all major book sellers now and full release on January 20, 2025. For more information, interviews, or review copies, please contact Melanie Sue Hicks at editor@inkedelephant.org or 813-344-7203.