Memories Served Here

In this her first book, Jo demonstrates her freedom from conformity and draws the reader into her world.   With memories and observations from her life, Jo hopes that her poems evoke memories or maybe a smile or two from her readers.

Communion Day   - From Book 1 hated everything that day even Mama I wished for a crown she chose a veil it kept slipping over my eyes I longed for a lace dress she made an oversized tutu I wanted ruffled ankle socks the nuns ordered white stockings I favored shiny Mary Janes my shoes were plain pumps the bouquet of peonies smelled like cat's urine I look at the photo taken that day joy on Mama's face agony on mine

Her Readers say:

“An utterly delightful collection of poems.  With the warmth simplicity and sense of humor most writers spend their lives trying to master.  No adverbial hyperbole, no pretension, no obscurantism, no obtuse metaphor ... in short, simple revelations of a beautiful person and a beautiful life.”
                                                      -- Marvin B. Levy, Wellington, Florida

Flowering in December

Her second book, Flowering in December chronicles vignettes from Jo’s life and shows us what it means to love life and revel in the sights and sounds of everyday.

Her Readers say:

"The warmth and charm of her humor, adroit expression of her inner feelings and uncanny knack for drawing the reader in with an unpretentious, sincere style is delightful; Her poems are.....'Everyman's Poems'."
                                                           -- Joan Franzone, Pine Plains, NY

"A whole book of poetry without a scintilla of pretension or obfuscation!  Brilliant! "
                                                          -- Marvin B. Levy, Wellington, Florida

“Thanks so much for again sharing a book of your poems with me.  While your descriptive verses paint vivid beautiful pictures, the ones that touch me the most are the ones where I can see your mother and the special bond between you.  My eyes filled with tears, and that’s what poems should do.”
                                                          -- Betty Reynolds, Deland, Florida

If There's Music I Dance

Her third book continues to examine her life in a witty manner, which is both introspective and outgoing.  She savors the sweet and rich taste of family joys and chooses to allow bitterness it’s time – but only that.

Her Readers say:

"Your uncanny powers of observation and particularly your ability to express them in such a simple, unpretentious, yet genuinely poignant way...I thoroughly enjoyed the "dance"...thank you so much for including me in your dance card!"
                                                          -- Marvin B. Levy, Wellington, Florida

Jo has done it once more
She enticed us right down to the core
We cherished and sighed
and sometimes we cried
This poet is one we adore
                                                           -- Limerick by Mimi Greenstein

“I look forward to starting my day with your wonderful thoughts.  You have brought me great joy.”
                                                           -- Barbara Tyran

Bridge to Tomorrow

In this fourth volume of poetry Jo Geluso shows us the view from the middle of the bridge, as she looks back to her early life and beyond as well as into the future, where hope and optimism are rooted in the family's children.

Her Readers say:

"She holds nothing back and tells about herself that few people would be willing to share. Her "let's chat" poetic style gives her poetry an interesting upbeat quality. She has covered a lifetime of subjects in her own inimitable way. Bridge to Tomorrow is a fascinating collection."
                    -- Maxwell C. Wheat, Jr., First Poet Laureate, Nassau County, NY

"Your new book of poetry, Bridge to Tomorrow, was a delight to read for many reasons. Each one spoke to me in a different way. You have a way of expressing nature, love and humor all within the context of a few words which spells volumes of images."

"Lane With No Name" wraps metaphor around a picture of nature like “fleecy pink clouds,” and “peaceful solitude wrapped in Balsam firs.” You could create a poem just with these images."

"Would She Know Me Now? is an excellent portrait of the dynamics between you and your sister."

"Retreat is a descriptive picture you paint of a room of your own. I wish it were my room."

"So There!! You capture the sadness of the boy but then joy expounds as the pheasants appear."

"He is Yours Now Donna is a lovely gift to your daughter-in-law which vividly shows love to your son and who he picked for his mate."

"A Gift is so beautifully sentimental and nostalgic. You’ve found a way to speak of your mother in gifted terms."

"Eventide is a salute to the splendiferous sounds of summer which you capture so strikingly like a calliope."

"Dance in the Rain talks about death but you’re not afraid and still you go on. A wonderful picture of your tenacity and talent."

"Rape of the White Gloves is funny, amusing and picturesque. I see a tall policeman standing like Mr. Clean supervising instead of helping you. You’re dressed in the fashion of the day, described with style and verve. He notices this. Chauvinist? Probably. A great image but there’s much to be said about your use of the word “Rape” in your title."

"Life’s a Wheel is a memorable look at life when one is given the gift of having lines etched as a permanent reminder of how we approach our eventide."

"Lest I Forget is so smooth and painfully touching as I can feel the absence of the one who means the most to you then, now and forever."

"Etched on Paper is the only poem I couldn’t read on unless I’d crumble with the pain of sorrow."

"Jo you capture all the elements of a true, honest and talented writer. One who touches my heart, mind and my soul with truisms that we all are able to relate to.

I thank you for yet another striking book to add to your repertoire.

                                                                                  -- Joan Amato

Bow to Time

In Bow to Time, her fifth collection of poems, Jo Geluso examines the past as well as the current realities of her life as a nonagenarian with wit and introspection.