Lauren Wander's
ten fingers too many
lies in the lush valley between simplicity and complexity. Through both fictional and autobiographical poetry and prose, Wander delivers a raw and evocative collection that offers a glimpse into her internal struggles with vulnerability and self-reflection. With a deft command of language, the author explores themes of love, the struggle for control, and the relentless pursuit of authenticity. Nature, as it always does, threads its way through the prose, emphasizing the cyclicality of life. Throughout the collection, Wander grapples with the paradox of seeking connection while wrestling with the fear of potential suffocation; the universal struggles of identity, fear of judgment, and the pursuit of redemption are seamlessly integrated into the narrative, offering readers a compelling and authentic portrayal of the human psyche. The collection's title itself is an ode to abundant emotions, akin to having more than necessary.