This is not your traditional biography. The first thing you notice are the moody, hazy photographs that evoke sadness, ghosts, the past. Then, you start reading an italicized font and realize you are reading the a story of a storyteller, complete with romanticized, moody descriptions, and excerpts from Edgar Allan Poe's poetry. It is not until page 15 that you find the standard Times-like font and a text that resembles what one would think of as a biography. The interplay of atmospheric photography, narrative, excerpts, and expository text continues throughout this book, bringing Poe and his work to life. This book is definitely the antidote to dry, straightforward biographies. For students who are reluctant to read a chapter book, this picture book fits the bill. For students who are drawn to "emo" style, the images and stories will provide all the dark, haunting, woeful tales they could desire. For all readers, either it will intrigue them to read more of Poe's work or, for those who have already read his work, it will provide those "ah-ha" moments of deeper understanding.

It was a quick and easy read and I really enjoyed the photo interpretations. They are wistful and some have a foggy appearance which seems fitting for a book on Poe.
FTC I purchased book at 'The Next Page Bookstore .

The complete review can be found on Lori's Book Loft blog. ( )