The Situation and the Story | Vivian Gornick
For those who are studying the craft of writing this book is essential. Pick it up. It own’t dissapoint.
Meander, Spiral, Explode | Jane Alison
A lovely book designed to help a writers brain break open and find all the possible ways in which narrative can find itself in a non linear format.
You’ve Changed | Pyae Moe Thet War
Despite the kickback against this book and it’s author regarding their privilege and placement in culture I found the break down essays on their name and the culture clash that they experienced with their name fascinating and beautifully written. Walking my own daughter through her middle names, why we chose them and her own identity crisis about them is eye opening and a privilege to behold. I think many people with names not based in an Anglo-Saxon linguistic while navigating a majority Anglo-Saxon demographic and world order structure will relate to this.
The Ten Thousand Doors of January | Alix E. Harrow
Complex, riveting and one of the most captivating reads I have had in a long time. Not worth spoiling, just read it.
A Court of Frost and Starlight | Sarah J Maas
A small bridge story between books in Sarah’s Court of Thorns and Roses series. A perfect read during the snow falls of January / February.
The Midnight Library | Matt Haig
I adored this read. It was not what I was expecting and.I found myself imagining what I would do if I was in my own midnight library. Truly a masterpiece.
Crown of Midnight | Sarah J. Maas
A distraction read during stressful times. Sarah J. Maas is becoming a comfort read.
Your Roots Cast a Shadow | Caroline Topperman
This book echoed into not only the current day that we are living now as I write this, but also into all of the spaces of my own heart and mind. As the first chapter states so well: “Our history, our roots is deeply planted. It’s vital that we not let these roots be wrneched from the ground, let alone used to clobber others.”
Hoe we anchor in to who we are and how we leverage that ‘identity’ causes impact, for the better or worse. Caroline doesn’t villanize, she sheds light. And we all know that light has a way of casting shadows.
Here in the Real World | Sara Pennypacker
A beautiful story about a boy who just wants his own bit of earth. In many ways - it reminds me of the summer-boy version of The Secret Garden. Both hurting souls looking to be seen by the land and company before them.
Pax | Sara Pennypacker
Sara weaves a tender and beautiful story between a young boy and his pet fox. Through the eyes of both the boy and the fox we learn of the pain and the joys of connection and what it means to be lost and finally, found.
A Curious Beginning | Deanna Raybourne
The first in the Veronica Speedwell Series. A much needed read to take a break from serious non fiction writing and reading for my masters. It helps that the heroine is a spicy independent victorian intellect.
Experiments in Imagining Otherwise | Lola Olufemi
Sometimes it’s enjoyable to just tip toe around words and see how they hit you. This was an expiermental read.
Your Spiritual Almanac | Joey Hulin
I adore this book as a friend during the year. I have finally reached the end of my full fiscal year journey with it and can safely say it will be with me for the end of time. I love books that give you monthly prompts to stay aware of the changing seasons. This book provides practical seasonal advice and knowledge like flowers and food that is in season but also helpful spiritual open ended thoughts to help connect the mind, body and spirit.
