Poetry by Allison Hedge Coke

April 1, 1997 • 6 x 9 • 96 pages • 978-1-56689-061-8

Autobiographical sketch of Hedge Coke presented in her debut collection of poems.

In her debut collection of poems, which received the American Book Award in 1998, Allison Adelle Hedge Coke presents an autobiographical sketch of a contemporary life. These poems recount surviving diaspora, domestic violence, racism, and an extraordinary number of challenges. By drawing upon a variety of poetic and prosaic forms, Hedge Coke simulates and transforms the rhythms and sounds of her people. She weaves the shapes and patterns of her heritage into a magnificent tapestry of prayer, story, and song. Dog Road Woman is a sublime presentation of the strength, beauty, and spirit of the nations.

About the Author

Allison Adelle Hedge Coke is the author of the American Book Award-winning debut collection Dog Road Woman and the memoir Rock, Ghost, Willow Deer (University of Nebraska Press). Growing up in North Carolina, Canada, and throughout the Great Plains, Hedge Coke earned her MFA at Vermont College and joined the faculty of Northern Michigan University in January 2005.

Praise for Dog Road Woman

Winner, American Book Award 1998 

First Finalist, Paterson Poetry Prize