Occasionally Petty is a book that combines lyrics and poetry. It is a mix of Tom Petty’s music with Michelle Lietz’s poetry. The author takes on a rock and roll album and connects it directly to her own experiences. Each poem reveals many parts of the author’s life while paying homage to the musician. Her beautiful poetry takes lyrics from Petty's songs to launch her exploration of themes of nostalgia, adolescence, and the poet's mixed Yaqui, European, and Middle Eastern identity. Each page and each poem are an exploration of family, culture, and her personal life. This poetry book is geared to an older audience with past experiences that paint a clear picture through her words. She shares her memories and experiences, which pass through several decades. It is indeed a wonderful way for her to share her stories with the world.

Other End Matter: Liner Notes, References
Contributor Affiliation: Author Michelle Lietz (Yaqui), Editor Jonina Kirton (Métis)
Bibliography: No
Index: No

Source: Books BC - Indigenous Books for Schools

Michelle Lietz is an American Indigenous writer of mixed Yaqui, European and Middle Eastern descent. She is currently pursuing a PhD in Indigenous Literature at the University of Manitoba in Winnipeg (Treaty 1 land) and lives in Ypsilanti, Michigan (occupied Anishinaabeg land). Her poems have previously been published in Prairie Fire's NDNcity issue.

Michelle Lietz's profile page

“Lyrics and poetry. A magical combination, especially when the music of Tom Petty is the inspiration. Lietz’s debut collection is alluring, divulging stories of the highways of her life.” – Corri Daniels, Plains Cree sixties scoop survivor from George Gordon First Nation.

“Reading Lietz’s first book is like tailgating someone who knows where they’re going. Reading Occasionally Petty is like finding a well-worn deer path in the woods—you expect to feel comforted and exhilarated at the same time, humming and buzzing.” – Ariel Gordon, author of ‘TreeTalk’.