Before the Rainbow by Lee Cullen Khanna

“Lee Cullen Khanna’s Before the Rainbow explores living in Vieques, P.R., an island that is part paradise and part victim of a colonial legacy. Khanna juxtaposes the beauty of its sea, sand, skies, flora and fauna against what she calls its “tortured history.” In finding joy in a spray of yellow coconut blossoms and egrets who turn to angels as if in a painting, she works magic with the landscape. Khanna’s strong voice, or, rather several voices — ironic, painterly, lyrical, political – give us a deeply satisfying look at Vieques, where there is “surprise in palm and deep sea.”
— Carole Stone, author of American Rhapsody, Cavankerry Press

Rating: [5 of 5 Stars!]

“The island of Vieques has long been associated with a history of Spanish domination and U.S. exploitation, and most recently, an influx of American tourists. Before the Rainbow brings new texture to this complex reality as Lee Cullen Khanna fulfills the role of witness and critic in her dazzling first collection of poetry. With powerful lyricism, she reveals a world of disquieting contrasts that pervade social and natural landscapes. Khanna’s bold and refreshing voice is a much needed contribution to writing on Vieques.”
–Linda Gould Levine, Professor of Spanish Literature, Montclair State University. Author of Isabel Allende, Twayne Publishers

Rating: [5 of 5 Stars!]