The first poetry book published by the Literary Arts group of the Sandwich Arts Alliance, Pebbles in the Stream, will be available to the public on Sunday, September 6th from 1 to 4 pm at the SAA Center on 124 Route 6A in Sandwich. The 72-page illustrated book features the collected work of twenty writers and artists, many of whom will be available for book signing at the launch celebration.

The book's 34 poems, which include haiku, sonnets and free verse as well as rhymed pieces, are the result of a "Poem-athon" fund raiser the SAA Literary Arts group held to benefit the Sandwich Food Pantry. The project began in April during Poetry Month when the Cape's food pantries were being emptied as the coronavirus swept through Cape Cod.

In exchange for a minimum donation of $15 to the food pantry, Arts Alliance writers and a few friends offered to write a poem for whatever purpose the donor specified, whether to celebrate a birthday, graduation, a second marriage, or the loss of a pet or friend.

"It was the best present I ever gave my sister," says Jana Dillon, who commissioned a poem and is also the book's interior art editor. Artist Carolyn LeComte designed the front and back covers.

"These are poems written by strangers for strangers," says Christie Lowrance, project coordinator who originated the idea. "The richness of this collection makes it clear that poems come from the heart. Writing these poems didn't require personally knowing someone but understanding what someone has experienced."

According to editor Christina Nordstrom, working on the poetry book was demanding, but a true joy. “I was honored to be part of a team of dedicated and talented people who worked together to transform our collection of poems and illustrations into Pebbles in the Stream. Going forward I hope that future sales of the book might continue to feed both body and soul, by helping stock the food pantry’s shelves as well as by providing inspiring food for the soul.”

The "Poem-athon" raised $750 for the food pantry. All net proceeds from Pebbles in the Stream will benefit the Sandwich Arts Alliance and the Sandwich Food Pantry.  Books may be pre-ordered on the Arts Alliance website at www.sandwichartsalliance.com.  They will be for sale at the launch and later at the SAA Center and Titcomb's Bookshop in East Sandwich.