Savvy, Verse & Wit

where stories begin with Serena Agusto-Cox

 

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Poetic Voices and Writing Tips Monthly Through Substack

Serena is a graduate of Suffolk University in Boston, Mass., who has written poetry and stories for as long as she can remember. Her love of word play and vivid imagery strive to interpret her world. She writes, works, and lives in the Washington, D.C., area, and loves the writing community.

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anthologies
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hours of literary festivals
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years of editorial experience
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literary magazine publications

Books that inspire me

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5.0

Blake’s Poetry and Designs

Blake has a dark sensibility and his drawings are beautiful and disturbing. It was the first time I saw poetry could be inspirational outside a classroom and in the greater art world. It’s one of the reasons I loved pairing my poems ‘Marvelous Creeper’ and ‘Yellow Streak’ with Gordana Geršković’s photography at the Foundry Gallery in D.C. for the exhibit ‘Photopoetry’ in 2022. My poetry was lighter than Blake’s but the conversation between art forms was still present.
Amazon
5.0

Field Guide to the End of the World by Jeannine Hall Gailey

Gailey’s work is more sci-fi or pop-culture based than my own, but her images and subjects are so engaging. Sometimes you forget you’re reading poetry. I love this accessibility without sacrificing poetry’s natural forms and devices.
Amazon
4.9

Where the Sidewalk Ends by Shel Silverstein

I’m reaching way back into my childhood for this one. These poems are about reaching kids, having fun, and speaking to them about their own lives and experiences. Generating laughs and joy. I hold these poems dear.
Amazon

Quick Q&A: The Bare Bones

Why did you call your blog “Savvy Verse & Wit”?

Originally, it was a blog and I wanted it to reflect the content: writing, reading, and a bit of humor. Now, I’m associated with that name, so it felt right to keep the website the same name, rather than use my own name.

If I’m working on a story, poem, etc., do you help writers hone their ideas or edit their work?

Yes. You can find information about that under “Work With Me.”

Are you available for book clubs, workshops, or readings?

Yes, please reach out about those events. I’d be happy to check my schedule. Just keep in mind that my travel budget is small. I’m always open to virtual events.

Do you still review other authors’ work?

Yes. I read and review other authors’ work on my Substack. Please review past content before inquiring. If you’d like a more in-depth tour, please consider hiring Poetic Book Tours, which can be found under “Work With Me.”

How can I support your work?

Become a paid Substack subscriber, come to my poetry readings, connect and share my news on social media, and, of course, buy my books.

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[email protected]

© 2026 Serena Agusto-Cox. All Rights Reserved.

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