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Treasuring Poetry – Meet poet and author Jan Sikes and a review

Posted: August 12, 2026 | Author: | Filed under: Book Review, Books, Collection, Interview, Poetry, Review, Treasuring Poetry | Tags: , , , , , |97 Comments
A riverbed with stones, water, and grasses. Text: Treasuring Poetry with Robbie Cheadle and KAye Lynne Booth

I’m delighted to welcome author and poet, Jan Sikes, as this month’s Treasuring Poetry guest. Jan is the author of a significant number of novels, novellas and short stories and she has recently published a collection of short stories and poems including contributions from her late husband, Rick Sikes, and her granddaughter, Sydney.

Welcome Jan

What is your favourite style of poetry?

My favorite style of poetry is free-form, but I do like rhyming and while I don’t know the exact terminology for this type of poetry, it follows a lyrical rhyming pattern of 1,3,5,7 etc. In other words, the first and third lines will rhyme, alternating that way throughout the poem. That’s the easiest for me to write as well. Another way I love to write is alternate rhyming 1&2, then 3&4 like we see in the Frost poem below.

What is your favourite poem?

My favorite poem is from Robert Frost – Nothing Gold Can Stay

Nature’s first green is gold,
Her hardest hue to hold.
Her early leaf’s a flower;
But only so an hour.
Then leaf subsides to leaf.
So Eden sank to grief,
So dawn goes down to day.
Nothing gold can stay.

What inspired you to publish Fringes, heartstrings and lyrics?

The inspiration started with looking at all the short stories I’d published in obscure anthologies throughout the years. I wanted to bring them all together in one book. I also wanted to include some of my late husband’s earliest poems from the 1960s and then as the project came together, my granddaughter shared some of her poetry with me and I was gobsmacked! In the process of gathering material, I found some my own poems that had never been shared anywhere, so I included them as well. 

What is the meaning behind fringes in the title?

Since some of the short stories were dystopian or ‘dark’ the Fringes in the title is meant to depict that section. Sometimes what happens on the fringes is powerful and moving. That was the intent for using that word in the title.

What is your favourite poem in this collection?

I have several favorites, but if I had to choose only one, I’d choose “Society” written by my granddaughter. It is very deep for a fourteen-year-old girl. It is truth!

Welcome to society
We hope you enjoy your stay
You can do anything you want
As long as you do it our way

You can like any guy
As long as he’s 6 foot 2
He must have ocean blue eyes
And a six-figure business too

Here in society, people are the same
‘Cause if you’re different you’re weird
You’ll sit at a table all alone
Kids will laugh and point and sneer

Our government sucks but you can’t revolt
There’s this cage we call a jail
You just have to sit and suffer
So try not to slip up and fail

And please feel free to be yourself
As long as it’s in the right way
Because in society, things work differently
Every single day

Welcome to society
We’ve got one last trick up our sleeve
The last important rule here
Is that you can never leave

My review of Fringes, Heartstrings and Lyrics by Jan Sikes

Book cover of Fringes, Heartstrings and Lyrics by Jan Sikes with gold lettering on a cover in shades of blue.
Picture caption: Book cover of Fringes, Heartstrings and Lyrics by Jan Sikes with gold lettering on a cover in shades of blue.

This is a varied and interesting collection of short stories and poems by Jan Sikes with poetry contributions by her late husband, Rick Sikes, and her Granddaughter, Sidney. The stories transition from darker tales to lighter ones with the first grouping being mainly bleak dystopian outlooks where love and kindness are the only remaining hope.

Each of the three poets contributes thought provoking and beautiful poems about life, love, and human perspective. I enjoyed each and every poem.

An overview of three of my favourite stories follows:

The Forgotten – This is an imaginative and unique story about a race of people, the Egluna, on a planet that has not seen the the sun for many moons. The people have become as wasted and colourless as their planet and have lost hope. New hope returns in the form of two vibrant and colourful creatures, one male and the other female, called ‘Fresh Ones’. The pair have powers and are able to reinvigorate the dying plant life on the planet. Will the couple be able to rejuvenate hope in the future for the Egluna too. I enjoyed this interesting take on climate change and its potential consequences.

A Promise Broken – A Promise Kept – While this story stands alone, it is also the backstory for a character who reappears in one of the author’s novels. I have read the relevant novel and was delighted to come across this character in her younger years and learn about her past and how it shaped her present in that novel. Charlotte’s story is one of strength, resilience and maturity.

When Love isn’t Enough – This is another story about difficult decisions arising from rebellion due to an overbearing and inflexible father. Riley is fortunate as she has a friend she can confide in and get good advice from but ultimately she has to make the right decision herself. This story has an interesting and unexpected ending.

The poem that resonated with me the most is called Too Dark and is by Sydney. This poem tells of the reaction of the poet’s mother and family to a dark poem that she is proud of. Her family are shocked at the poems darkness. I related to this because my son writes poetry and it is also very dark. I am always a bit shocked by the darkness of his views and thoughts on life and society. I think all the negative social media and press is having a negative impact on youngsters and making them feel hopeless. It is something the older generations needs to be aware of. We need to avoid complaining about what a bad state we think the world is in as it has a bad effect on our children and grandchildren.

An interesting collection that is well worth the time investment.

Purchase Fringes, Heartstrings and Lyrics from Amazon US here: https://www.amazon.com/Fringes-Heartstrings-Lyrics-Jan-Sikes-ebook/dp/B0GRWQC3SH/

Find all of Jan Sike’s books on Amazon US here: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Jan-Sikes/author/B00CS9K8DK

About Jan Sikes

Picture caption: Author photograph of Jan Sikes

I’ve been an avid reader all my life. There’s nothing I love more than losing myself in a story.

Oddly enough, I had no ambition to be a writer. But I wound up in mid-life with a story that begged to be told. Not just any story, but a true story that rivaled any fiction creation. Through fictitious characters, the tale came to life in an intricately woven tale that encompasses four books. Not satisfied to stop with the books, I released music CDs of original music matching the time period of each story segment. In conclusion, to bring the story full circle, I published a book of poetry and art. I was done.

Wrong!

The story ideas keep coming, and I don’t intend to turn off the creative fountain. I have now written numerous short stories, a series of paranormal romances and a series of historical fiction.

I love all things metaphysical and often include those aspects in my stories.

I am an dedicated fan of Texas music and grandmother of five beautiful souls. I reside in North Texas.

About Robbie Cheadle

Picture caption: Robbie Cheadle author picture

South African author and illustrator, Robbie Cheadle, has written and illustrated sixteen children’s books, illustrated a further three children’s books, and written and illustrated three poetry books. Her work has also appeared in poetry and short story anthologies.

Robbie also has two novels and a collection of short stories published under the name of Roberta Eaton Cheadle and has horror, paranormal, and fantasy short stories featured in several anthologies under this name.

You can find Robbie Cheadle’s artwork, fondant and cake artwork, and all her books on her website here: https://www.robbiecheadle.co.za/

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Did you know you can sponsor your favorite blog series or even a single post with an advertisement for your book? Stop by the WtbR Sponsor Page and let me advertise your book, or you can make a donation to Writing to be Read for as little as a cup of coffee, If you’d like to show your support for this author and WordCrafter Press.

__________________________

This segment of “Treasuring Poetry” is sponsored by WordCrafter Press and the Poetry Treasures series.

Get Your Copy Today!

Poetry Treasures: https://books2read.com/PoetryTreasures

Poetry Treasures 2: Relationships: https://books2read.com/PT2-Relationships

Poetry Treasures 3: Passions: https://books2read.com/u/b5qnBR

Poetry Treasures 4:In Touch With Nature: https://books2read.com/PT4-Nature

Poetry Treasures 5: Small Pleasures: https://books2read.com/PT5-SmallPleasures

Poetry Treasures 6: Seasons: https://books2read.com/PT6Seasons

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97 Comments on “Treasuring Poetry – Meet poet and author Jan Sikes and a review”

  1. V.M.Sang's avatar V.M.Sang says:
    August 12, 2026 at 3:33 am

    Thank you for this post, Robbie. I’ve come across Jan in comments to any posts on various blogs. It’s nice to learn more about her and to read some of her and Sydney’s poems. Such talent!

    Liked by 3 people

    Reply
  2. Smorgasbord - Variety is the Spice of Life.'s avatar Smorgasbord - Variety is the Spice of Life. says:
    August 12, 2026 at 4:22 am

    A lovely post Robbie and review for Jan’s lovely collection.. xx

    Liked by 3 people

    Reply
  3. Poetry By Maggie Watson's avatar Poetry By Maggie Watson says:
    August 12, 2026 at 4:26 am

    A lovely interview with Jan!
    What a talented lady 🤗
    Thank you for sharing Robbie.

    Liked by 3 people

    Reply
  4. Cindy Georgakas's avatar Cindy Georgakas says:
    August 12, 2026 at 5:13 am

    What a great review Robbie of Jan’s new book Fringes! Love how the title was formed and her granddaughters amazing insightful poem! So heartfelt and full of wisdom!
    💕

    Liked by 3 people

    Reply
  5. Dave Astor's avatar Dave Astor says:
    August 12, 2026 at 6:29 am

    Excellent post, Robbie! The interview with Jan, the review of her collection, etc.! I agree that Sydney’s poem “Society” is impressively astute, especially for a 14-year-old.

    Liked by 3 people

    Reply
  6. beth's avatar beth says:
    August 12, 2026 at 6:47 am

    i loved the interview and jan’s answers. i learned so much more about her today –

    Liked by 3 people

    Reply
  7. Treasuring Poetry – Meet poet and author Jan Sikes and a review – Robbie's inspiration says:
    August 12, 2026 at 7:04 am

    […] Treasuring Poetry – Meet poet and author Jan Sikes and a review […]

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply
  8. beetleypete's avatar beetleypete says:
    August 12, 2026 at 7:25 am

    Always good to find out more about Jan and her work. Good luck to her with the new book, shared on Twitter.

    Best wishes, Pete.

    Liked by 3 people

    Reply
  9. marianbeaman6811bce9e7's avatar marianbeaman6811bce9e7 says:
    August 12, 2026 at 7:49 am

    I met Jan Sykes in a different forum and have admired her work ever since. I too like Robert Frost – Nothing Gold Can Stay.

    All best wishes on your newest publication, Jan!

    Liked by 3 people

    Reply
  10. Jacqui Murray's avatar Jacqui Murray says:
    August 12, 2026 at 8:16 am

    I love that a Robert Frost poem is one of your favorites. He remains high on my list, but most have forgotten him. I’d missed this one.

    Liked by 3 people

    Reply
  11. Darlene's avatar Darlene says:
    August 12, 2026 at 8:39 am

    Thanks for the awesome interview with Jan and great review of her book. That poem by Sydney really gets to me everytime!

    Liked by 3 people

    Reply
  12. Liz Gauffreau's avatar Liz Gauffreau says:
    August 12, 2026 at 10:35 am

    I enjoyed reading your spotlight and Jan and her work! I can understand why Sydney’s “Society” is Jan’s favorite poem in the collection. It’s a gut-punch of a poem. The rhyme scheme works particularly well with the poem’s overall message.

    Liked by 3 people

    Reply
  13. Andrew McDowell's avatar Andrew McDowell says:
    August 12, 2026 at 10:57 am

    Sydney’s poem is excellent.

    Liked by 3 people

    Reply
  14. Colleen Chesebro's avatar Colleen Chesebro says:
    August 12, 2026 at 1:28 pm

    What a fabulous interview, Robbie. Sydney’s poem is a stunner!!

    Liked by 3 people

    Reply
  15. T. W. Dittmer's avatar T. W. Dittmer says:
    August 12, 2026 at 1:31 pm

    It’s good to learn more about Jan and read the great review, Robbie! I’m glad you posted it. 😍

    Liked by 3 people

    Reply
  16. Author Jan Sikes's avatar Author Jan Sikes says:
    August 12, 2026 at 2:15 pm

    Thank you SO much, Robbie, for this opportunity to share with your followers. It’s an honor to be your guest and I’m deeply grateful.

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply
  17. Unknown's avatar Visiting Again – Reviews – New Book To Share! – Jan Sikes says:
    August 12, 2026 at 2:24 pm

    […] ROBBIE CHEADLE – BLOG POST […]

    Liked by 2 people

    Reply
  18. shehannemoore's avatar shehannemoore says:
    August 12, 2026 at 3:20 pm

    Once again, a super, detailed interview and review. Nice to learn more about Jan.

    Liked by 3 people

    Reply
  19. petespringer's avatar petespringer says:
    August 12, 2026 at 4:38 pm

    I’ve read and enjoyed several of Jan’s novels in the past, but I haven’t read much of her poetry before. It’s great when authors expand their writing into other genres.

    Liked by 3 people

    Reply
  20. Jennie's avatar Jennie says:
    August 12, 2026 at 7:10 pm

    Robbie, your review and interview were wonderful. I now know more about Jan.

    Liked by 3 people

    Reply
  21. derrickjknight's avatar derrickjknight says:
    August 12, 2026 at 11:19 pm

    A good range of work. I agree about the granddaughter’s profound poem

    Liked by 3 people

    Reply
  22. Poetry By Maggie Watson's avatar Poetry By Maggie Watson says:
    August 12, 2026 at 11:36 pm

    My pleasure Jan 🤗

    Liked by 2 people

    Reply
  23. Toni Pike's avatar Toni Pike says:
    August 13, 2026 at 4:23 am

    What a lovely introduction to Jan’s work

    Liked by 3 people

    Reply
  24. coldhandboyack's avatar coldhandboyack says:
    August 13, 2026 at 7:23 am

    Wonderful to see Jan over here today.

    Liked by 3 people

    Reply
  25. Kymber's avatar Kymber says:
    August 13, 2026 at 8:45 am

    What a great interview and review! It was wonderful to learn more about Jan, and I really enjoyed her book, too.

    I also love the Robert Frost poem. I first read the poem in the book The Outsiders when I was a young teen, and it has stayed with me ever since.

    Liked by 3 people

    Reply
  26. Laura Lyndhurst's avatar Laura Lyndhurst says:
    August 13, 2026 at 10:34 am

    That’s a great interview with Jan, Robbie; I’m glad you enjoyed the book as much as I did. Wonderful to see one of Sydney’s poems there too; she has such a talent. Many thanks for sharing your review with us too.

    Liked by 3 people

    Reply
  27. Teri Polen's avatar Teri Polen says:
    August 17, 2026 at 2:53 pm

    Congrats to Jan and Sydney on the review! I thought I’d already read this collection but looking at your review, I’m sure I haven’t yet, Robbie. I need to get started!

    Liked by 2 people

    Reply
  28. Carla's avatar Carla says:
    September 5, 2026 at 5:12 pm

    Great interview Robbie and Jan. It’s nice to learn what is behind a book and an author’s thoughts. I enjoyed your review as well, Robbie. It sounds like Jan’s granddaughter inherited some of her talent.

    Liked by 2 people

    Reply

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