Book Review | ‘Tonight in Jungleland: The Making of Born to Run’ by Peter Ames Carlin
A behind-the-scenes look at the making of one of Bruce Springsteen’s most iconic albums.
David Starkey
Recent Stories
Book Review | ‘Long Distance’ by Ayşegül Savaş
Short story collection from lauded Turkish writer shines.
10 Best Books of 2025
The California Review of Books’s team shares their picks for the best books of the year.
The Best Poetry Books of 2025
Santa Barbara Poet Laureate David Starkey (2009-2011) shares his favorite poetry books of 2025.
Book Review | ‘A Wooded Shore’ by Thomas McGuane
A collection of stories that stands with the author’s finest work.
A Poet’s Perspective on Song
Acclaimed poet Dana Gioia talks about words and music, with an upcoming visit to UCSB.
Book Review | ‘Living in the Present with John Prine’ by Tom Piazza
Spending some prime time with the late John Prine.
Book Review | ‘Talking All Night: The New York Poets – Interviews, Photographs, Letters’ by Mark Hillringhouse
A significant literary historical document, that’s also a fun read.
Book Review | ‘Memorial Days’ by Geraldine Brooks
Brooks latest is a beautifully written memoir about the loss of a spouse.
Book Review | ‘Insectopolis: A Natural History’ by Peter Kuper
A charmingly funny book length comic for adults, ‘Insectopolis’ gives insects a platform to tell their stories.
