Experience the enchanting tapestry of the four seasons in Northern Michigan through the vivid lens of poems, essays, and short stories. Follow the author, his wife, and their German shepherd as they transition from the bustling city to the serene embrace of the woods.

Nestled among the maples, oaks, and poplars of their new home, they discover a rejuvenating haven that offers profound insights into life amidst nature's splendor and the diverse wildlife. While poetry takes center stage, the book also weaves in fictional short stories rooted in historical facts, inviting readers to explore the magic of Northern Michigan's ever-changing landscape.

Discover the pages of Our Nest in the Universe and embark on a journey of discovery, uncovering the extraordinary within the ordinary. Our Nest in the Universe is full of close observations of Northern Michigan in all its subtle and magnificent beauty.

It’s a pure joy to spend a year with Jeff Leestma as he reacquaints himself with this intense sensory landscape through the changing of the seasons. He uses a wide range of tones and writing styles to capture those changes: at times playful, at times somber, at times in awe of the natural world.

Anyone familiar with Northern Michigan will find themselves nodding in appreciation at the images and insights conjured here in both the photographic illustrations and the writing, and anyone anywhere can appreciate being brought into this magical world. - Jim Daniels, award-winning Michigan poet and writer, is the author of more than 40 collections of poetry and fiction as well as four produced screenplaysPlayful and inventive, Our Nest in the Universe contains Jeffrey K.

Leestma’s closely observed reflections on his first year in Northern Michigan. From sprightly poems about a backyard fox and evocative haiku about the signs of the seasons to richly imagined short stories set in a bygone era, this collection will delight anyone who enjoys the woods, water, and wildlife of Northern Michigan.

- Thomas Hooker, author of award-winning book In The Slanted Light: A Collection of Poems, Silent Woods and The Catcher: Shadows to Light--------------------------------Jeff Leestma is a retired communications executive in the automotive industry, with experience at American Honda Motor Co. and Chrysler Corporation, and as a contributing writer to General Motors.

His career includes serving as president of the Automotive Hall of Fame and managing editor of Automobile Quarterly. Leestma is also an accomplished author, known for works such as COPO Camaro: The Chevrolet Performance Team Unleashes a Legend and as a contributing writer to “Dodge: America's Most Emotional Car Brand for more than 90 Years.

” A graduate of Alma College (Alma, Michigan) with a degree in English, Leestma's expertise and literary prowess are evident throughout his distinguished career. Our Nest in the Universe is his first poetry and prose book.

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