‘The poems are personal (deeply so) but political, social, philosophical and definitely meaningful. Yet, the poems are simply written: evocative and vivid, with subtext in layers. The collection makes a perfect companion to Alizadeh’s wonderful biography/history Iran: My Grandfather. Alizadeh’s work is important and I’d hope the average reader might pick him up and be enlightened.’ Bookseller + Publisher
‘Imbued with simple and muscular language, philosophic insight and great poetic skill.’ Adelaide Review
‘From the opening poem’s hymn to mobility and renewal to the elegiac ending, From Tehran to the Gold Coast, Ashes in the Air sparks with wisdom and energy.’ Gleebooks Gleaner
‘Many of these poems focus on the recent history of Iran as well as his experiences as an immigrant. This is political poetry made "poetic" partly by Alizadeh's awareness that polemic is death to poetry and partly by his exceptional skill with form.’ Sydney Morning Herald
‘Ashes in the Air is a type of odyssey from Iran to Australia, from youth to maturity, from birth to death, and signals Alizadeh’s continued poetic development.’ Australian Book Review