Insights from #12

Rachel Cross-Grothe uncovers the hidden pains of life and love in her powerful new collection, . Cross-Grothe, the twelfth child in her family, observed her parents' and siblings' struggles. Since the age of eleven, Cross-Grothe has documented these challenges and her family's moments of triumph over them in poetry. She has released this collection in tribute to her sister Dawn, who was always her biggest fan and supporter. Cross-Grothe's poems represent many different themes. The award-winning "Risen above It All" shows the strength Cross-Grothe's spirituality has given her. "Walking in Love" challenges you to contemplate the many different kinds of love you can express. "Just Wanna Live" reveals the deception of the American Dream. Cross-Grothe writes candidly about the dark moments in her life, including failed marriages and unhealthy relationships. She credits her faith in God for helping her through the difficult times, and many poems joyfully celebrate his presence in her life. One of her most powerful poems, "Be Your Own Star," tells you that "Our life is a vapor act before it's your time to go." Cross-Grothe has created a collection that will encourage, challenge, and inspire.