Some of you may already recognize a few of these suggestions from April’s newsletters this year, but I am starting to round out the year and wanted to share in this format in case anyone is looking for the perfect read to settle into the winter with!
Currently reading (almost done)
Wintering by Katherine May
As I began to plan for my upcoming workshop, Sacred Winter: Creating Inner Warmth, I was reminded of this book I came across on Instagram a few weeks back. Drawn to the idea of “Wintering” as an action and an experience, I decided to dive in.
Not only is this one of the most beautifully written books that I have read this year but also one so perfectly timed with the way this it has all felt. While we exceeded record temperature highs for our area this summer in terms of heat, which was MISERABLE, there was a part of me that felt like a bear in hibernation or at least a bear that longed to be in hibernation.
We dream and hope for a life rich in summer bliss. Endless energy, long bright days, sun-soaked souls, and yet, the “winter” is both inevitable and our greatest teacher.
In the silence, the cold, the dark, the discomfort, we find answers to unsolved riddles, release frustrations, and let tears fall.
Katherine writes this non-fiction book in a way that feels like poetry.
I would love to lend my copy to anyone who would like to read it! Comment on this post or reply to your email notification for this post.
Best of This Year:
Letting Go by David Hawkins
I believe I have listened to this book almost three times throughout this year alone. On the other side of some deep wounds this year, this book allowed room for so much perspective. What does it mean to truly move through and away from anger, pride, and greed and into self-actualization, grace, and forgiveness? This book may give you some much-needed direction.
The Wisteria Society of Lady Scoundrels by India Holton
I am not sure any of my romance-lover friends have read this, but man, oh, man, they should! As someone who is not often lured in by romance or fantasy fiction, this book caught my attention immediately. It is quirky, has fun world-building, and does not have over-the-top spice (I would rate it a 2/5 spice). I picked up the second book in the series, but with the highs and lows of this year, I have not made time for it. I might just start from the first one again just to get my bearing before starting on the next adventure!
Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt
Not only is one of the main characters a literal octopus, but the entire lineup of characters is refreshingly different and compelling. We see the world through multiple perspectives and learn valuable lessons about both chosen and given family.
This one made me cry, laugh, and reflect, and I took my time getting through it.