The poems in this volume, based on events in the author's life, explore the 1960s culture of secrecy surrounding alcoholism and depression and their effects on herself as a young girl. "Ann Bracken creates a vibrant dialogue with her reader. Her emotional vocabulary is wholeheartedly offered to us like a gift to the world. Bracken's strength comes from an equilibrium between idea and performance-interior and exterior lives, smartly drawn. With a strong voice, vitally engaged, she presents characters and behavior without judgment. Poetry is the vehicle that makes us laugh and cry at her "Altar of Innocence." -Grace Cavalieri, poet and producer of the radio show "The Poet and the Poem from the Library of Congress" "The Altar of Innocence offers readers a rare and compassionate look at depression. By telling her mother's story and sharing her own, Ann Bracken takes us on an intimate journey through two generations of mental illness and ultimate healing. Readers will find hope in her journey." - Laura Shovan, writer and publisher of Little Patuxant Review