by Evelyn Ann Romano (Author)

"Ripe" is about the author's search for meaning and acceptance of her life's challenges. She focuses on identity issues women encounter, both historically (Eve) and those in her own life. She seeks resolution and arrives at her poem, "Clear," the last poem in the book. She is finally ripe for life ("Ripe") despite all the downsides. Her poems, "What If," and "Clear" have won awards by Tampa Writers Alliance. Her poem, "Sisters of the Sea" has won awards by the Mt .Dora Festival of Literature and New River Poets. "Ode to Summer Fruit" won a H.C. library award.