"... Within the pages of this remarkable collection, Cook weaves together a tapestry of vivid imagery and profound introspection, inviting readers to embark on an extraordinary journey. With each turn of the page, you'll find yourself drawn further into the beguiling world Cook has crafted, where reality shimmers and dreams take flight. Whether you're seeking insight into your own innermost thoughts or simply craving an escape into a realm of boundless imagination, this collection promises to be a compelling, transformative, and unforgettable journey into the heart and mind of a remarkable poet." -SJ Hazim, Topeka Community Activator

"Cook's individual poems, bound into his book, Vishuddha, hold true to their intent. Here is an intellectual poet, a seeker, someone who communications brilliantly, and speaks his personal truth. Cook has put together a profound book." -Ronda Miller, author of five poetry books including MoonStain, and the award winning children's book, I Love the Child.

"Vishuddha is the Sanskrit name for the fifth chakra (or focal point, used in meditation), located in the throat. It is related to communication, self-expression, creativity and personal truth, all of which I found in Ian Cook's first book of poems. . . . The final section of Cook's book, 'Crow Bone Crown' is as intense and demanding as W. S. Merwin's poetry, and, if you work at it, just as rewarding ...There's an intensity and beauty to the language that I enjoyed on every page. . . . These poems lead you to the edge of things then invite you to step over. ... This is a poet who pays attention to the world, listens and tries to find language to convey what he hears about the way that life and death are inextricably linked. He ends 'Tawny' with: 'I can't stand in an empty room for long/without listening to the bones.' . . . if you're prepared to go on the journey with the poet as your guide, you will learn plenty, including new ways of seeing and experiencing the world. This is poetry that is in Cook's eloquent words, 'realizing the godself and making it known, ' and I couldn't help being reminded of Walt Whitman, who was, in Leaves of Grass, making his godself known in such a remarkable way."

-Brian Daldorph, editor of Coal City Review. His most recent books of poetry are Ice Age/Edad de Hielo (Irrupciones P, 2017), Blue Notes (Dionysia P, 2019), and Kansas Poems (Meadowlark P, 2021).

"Vishuddha weaves a tapestry of magic and spells, delving into the divine, spirituality, and lucid dreaming. The author finds inspiration in nature and examines the intricacies of relationships and emotions. The poetry within acts as a path to healing and self-discovery. It awakens a sense of awareness, presence, and holistic healing, while also delving into psychological exploration, our purpose, and the human condition. Readers venture on an inner journey of self-discovery and reflection." -Mitch Cearbhall, Imagination to Manifestation