The Book of Real Shit: A Collection of Poetry & Life Thoughts puts J. Smith's emotions and struggles on page without apology or hesitation. Her poems cover all aspects of life, from moments of utter desperation when depression is eating away at your spirit. To the moments we pray for when love is cradling our soul like a parent. Far from avoiding the unfairness of life, she embraces it, transforming it into haunting verse.

For J. Smith, sensitivity was once a demise but has since become a birth. As The Rose That Grew From Concrete, this phoenix arises from the ashes creating a monumental moment in literature. A collection of poetry from a perspective that is unbelievably raw and relatable. For J. Smith, our mere existence in life is a mighty force that moves and shapes the psyche. Inspiration is attained daily through the basics such as selfless love and sometimes the inevitable heartbreak. Likewise, the trials of "living while black" in America.

This collection, full of pride and truth, invites readers to see themselves stripped bare of social trappings-to see themselves just as they are meant to be. A dose of reality that is worth indulging into.

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