Quilted Inside weaves evocative, intimate poetry into a lush visual landscape of mixed-media artworks and empowers deeply feeling readers to weave their own unique tapestry in life. The book is set apart by splattered paint, crossed-out words, and wandering brush strokes that lend a deeply felt humanity and heart.

Inside the book, quirks abound and sensitive souls find solace. An excerpt from the introduction reads, “All parts of us - many worn and disheveled, some gaudy and bright, others ancient or brand new - can live beside one another in wholeness … all knit together as one.

”In the first chapter, “Threads,” memories of childhood are spun to reveal the first fabric threads of the self. “Knots,” chapter two, is about the ache of shame, insecurity, and loss that can warp the connected textile.

“Strings” is a journey through the heart’s topography of love and longing, and “Stitch” explores life as a creative person. The final chapter, “Mend,” is a hopeful send-off of healing, wisdom, and hope, but also an embrace of imperfections.

Quilted InsideOne day you wake upJust old enoughTo be quilted insideStrips and squares ofLoves and places and selvesGhosts of whole worlds pastKnitted on topUnderLaying sensedIn the quiet of some nights-Lola York. .