In poems that balance the lyrical with the narrative, Austin explores the inner life of a proud and reticent woman. This is a work of deep sympathy and real human feeling, painting a picture of a love that is as big and real as it is imperfect. Work, love, anger, and prayer are all made equally palpable in Austin's observant and lively verse. These poems are likely to remind you of someone whom you have loved and fought, someone you have cursed and blessed, and forgiven. There is no baloney here: Mother and Son is real art because it is the real stuff of human life. --Benjamin Myers