"For many years now Brett Lars Underwood has been the kind carnival barker of St. Louis poetry. Singing his city's praises while judging literary chainsaws in his mind. For me, his work has yet to get the attention it truly deserves, largely because Brett is a modest guy, always helping others, while rarely seeking out the spotlight for himself. Poets like Brett and his life partner in words Jim Z. McGowin are the godfathers of the St. Louis scene, and are leaving a true legacy in real time, for those smart enough to seek it out. Gateway to Mush is the third book in what is presently the Mush trilogy and I can only hope that there's more to come. The publication of this book is reason for excitement in these uncertain times and if you're holding it in your hands you should consider yourself lucky, because Brett has opened his heart to you and that's a really big deal."

-John Dorsey, Author of Dead Photographs, Stubborn Mule Press

"A new book of poems is always a Grand Event, at least in my world. And when it's a book by a friend and all-around heck of a guy, well, that's quite an occasion. In Mr Underwood's latest effort, prepare yourself to be dazzled by weirdos and existentialism, wordplay and pop culture references, and get a whiff of those taverns they say we have on nearly every corner here. If you're a fan, you're in luck. If you're a newbie, prepare to get the STL poetic vibe!"

----Matthew Scott Freeman, author of Trying to Take a Nap (KATTYWAMPUS PRESS, 2017) and IDEAS AND REFERENCE AT JESUIT HALL ( Coffee House Press, 2020)