Author Marilyn Kallett described Cells this way: "Scott Holstad thinks in poetry, in rhythmical waves. His imagination surges ahead, large and generous, the cut of his lines always clean and firm. These fervent, honest, well-made poems carry the reader through the underworld and back in a healing action that reminds us of Rimbaud's 'Drunken Boat' or Odysseus' journey with the golden bough. 'Tegretol' is destined to become a contemporary classic. 'Tennessee Football Saved My Ass' reminds us of Holstad's unfailing, albeit dark sense of humor. "