The First Quarter of life is the stuff of the songwriter's dream. This debut book celebrates high school sports and socials, young love, friendship, and the joy and heartache of coming of age in 21st century suburban America. Cincinnati Book Publishing selected this poetry collection for its 2012 Young Voices Publication Award.

Joe Tallarigo is a Cincinnati native. He grew up in Price Hill, where he attended St. Lawrence School. In 1998 the family moved to Delhi Township so that Joe and his brother could attend Oak Hills High School. As a sophomore, Joe began writing song lyrics. His early works were influenced by country music legends Hank Williams and George Strait. From 2004, his writing took a more personal turn, as he emulated the introspective styles of Alan Jackson and Kenny Chesney. Tallarigo pursued his art through high school and afterward while working in early childhood education. Currently, he is composing songs for his second book, Life Goes On.

CBP Young Voices Publication Award, 2012