Reviews

Have you seen The Greatest Showman? Well, Billy Barnum is a direct descendant of Phineas Taylor Barnum, and he wrote a poetry book! Move Over Shakespeare was a delight to read. The poems were raw, honest,uplifting, and thought-provoking. "One by One" inspired me to get writing. "My Hair" had me laugh out loud. "Sycamore Tree" had me in awe. Many poems had me questioning life. I applaud Mr. Barnum for baring his soul with the world; it's not an easy thing to do. I wish I could write poetry as well as him. The pictures were a nice bonus. If you're a poetry lover, you won't regret picking up a copy of this book! - Abigail Wyvon (Wordpress) 5stars!

Though the spirit of poetry still enlightens many a poet, the standing in society of this most expression-filled form of communication, seems to be fading into history books. It is a delight, therefore, when a new book of poetry comes before me. I dove into the pages of Billy J Barnum's book as one thirsty for something fresh, maybe even breathtaking. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder of course, and never is that truer than when reading poetry. I was not disappointed, for this is a bold poet who has opened his heart and mind and laid it before the world to peruse,digest and critique. In every person and in men particularly, is a desire to be remembered. For what is the point of all the pain, if there's no gain?No love. No memory to claim. For me this life we live on Earth is but our school-days before going home. Billy reflects on his life. What has he lost or gained? What beauty did he see, what lessons did he learn?More importantly, what can he leave behind? What wisdom can he pass on?For indeed there is a clear intent on forwarding on encouragement to any reader that comes across his poems. My favorite poem is My Hair, which displays the poet's humorous look at himself. Billy J Barnum is brave to bare his soul, to reveal his longing to be remembered. I found these poems insightful and reflective, and Billy might be pleased to know they opened my curiosity to know more, dig deeper. Should Shakespeare move over? I'll leave that to you to decide, but I do believe that Billy has left his mark in time, and that's what it's all about after all. Engrossing and thought-provoking -Chick Lit Café recommends Move Over Shakespeare: Tales from The Baron.

Move over Shakespeare: Tales from the Baron by Billy J Barnum's a collection of interesting poems that cover a wide selection of themes: nature, personal relationships and intimacy, dreams, self-introspection,adventure, life and death, and many others. Each poem has its own style, and this reflects the subject matter in each poem. Some are very short and succinct while others are long, comprising of several stanzas. The tone is friendly, at times serious, but it almost always gets the reader involved in the movements and the different currents running through the poems. This collection will have a unique and strong appeal to fans of poetry, particularly those who enjoy strong imagery and rhyme. Some of the poems are rhythmic and the short lines create a piece of music that rings beautifully to the ears. There are many stanzas that are insightful, and the reader will enjoy the moments when the author reflects on the realities of life, especially when the poems adopt a personal tone. One of my best poems in this collection is"My Inner Child," and the author compels readers to reflect on the struggle they endure when, at times, they have to respond to the demands of the child they once were or embrace the path of growth. Billy J Barnum's poetry is written in a simple style, but it contains poems that have deeper layers of meaning. There are precious gems in this collection and readers will find great entertainment here, enjoy the humor in the writing, and be transported in some of the adventures it offers. The poems are punctuated by images that are, in themselves, very telling. -Reviewed By Christian Sia for Readers' Favorite Review Rating:5 Stars - Congratulations on your 5-star review!