An Olio of Poems by Christina J. Donato and Ralph A. Walton

An Olio of Poems

Christina J. Donato and Ralph A. Walton

Left-Handed Author Publishing (2025)

978-1737086154

Reviewed by Jordan Waterwash for Reader Views (10/2025)

https://readerviews.com/reviews/an-olio-of-poems-donato/

4/5

Christina J. Donato and Ralph A. Walton (wife and husband duo) share their poetry in the collection titled An Olio of Poems. The majority of the poems are written by Donato with a section near the end authored by Walton (titled “Poems I Didn’t Write”). The poems shared throughout the collection span from light and carefree to somber and touching. Separated into nine sections, the collection contains a selection of poems from throughout Donato’s life. Some were written decades ago while others were created solely for this collection. Each section contains a list of the poems included; these lists are accompanied by short autobiographical blurbs explaining their context, meaning, or history. The only exception is the final section (written by Walton).

The poems start light with a section about Donato’s relationships with the dogs in her life. These were an interesting start. Though at times these poems felt more geared toward younger audiences, they were still pleasant to read. The next section, about food, traveled a similar emotional path; the poems felt more suited for young readers, but still gave the reader insight into Donato’s inner world. In contrast, the third section (“Depression Expression”) delved deeper into Donato’s struggles with depression and loneliness.

The middle sections involved more high-level themes, which contradicted the beginning and ending sections; though, the depth in those sections was welcome. For readers of the Christian faith, the section titled “Spiritual Musings” will likely be a favorite. I am not of the faith, nor am I very spiritual at large, but the poems themselves were still written in a pleasant manner. Throughout, the poems held to their forms, which clearly showed Donato’s love for the art.

Finally, the section titled “Social Consciousness” brought to light some pressing issues in our current world through the lens of Donato’s younger self. These seemed to be written by Donato years ago, judging by the notes included, and she mentions the poems may be “of their time.” Donato recognizes the poems use outdated terminology, but their intent is good and offers readers an insight into how our past and present are in constant conversation.

Ultimately, An Olio of Poems covers a lot of emotional ground. From dogs to depression, Donato and Walton use their poetry to express the highs and lows of life. Readers will appreciate the lighthearted nature of some poems as well as the more insightful works in the collection.