Reading Room Recommends

1 December 2021

December has the clarity, the simplicity, and the silence you need for the best fresh start of your life.

Vivian Swift

A Year In Van Nuys by Sandra Tsing Loh

A writer’s mind can be a crazy place. Sandra Tsing Loh gives a glimpse into her experiences and foibles in a memoir set during one of her many years spent living in Van Nuys, CA. Family life, therapy sessions, and failed diets are among her touchpoints in a story told with humor and pragmatism.

I’m in the Circus by Leah Symmons

An autobiography of just eight pages, this unusual piece combines poetry and prose to describe a deep sense of longing, loneliness, and anger. Uncovered while searching Nook.com for writers’ memoirs, this short e-book stays with me, its voice returning at odd times to make me wonder about it all over again.

Grimm’s Fairy Tales, Introduction & Notes by Elizabeth Dalton

This abridgment offers around 100 of the famous tales collected by the Brothers Grimm from the German region of Hessen in the late 19^th century. Elizabeth Dalton’s introduction considers the tales from a psychoanalytic point of view and gives context to the stories that follow. A tall order for reading straight through, the Grimm’s tales make a fascinating volume to dip into from time to time on long winter evenings.

Herbal Tea Magic for the Modern Witch: A Practical Guide to Healing Herbs, Tea Leaf Reading, and Botanical Spells by Elsie Wild

Elsie Wild’s book is for bringing practical magic into your life. The brief history section outlining the origins of tea divination and herbalism is the basis for her suggestions and recipes. Truly modern witches may wonder about the efficacy of these spells, but should find it a fun read with ideas for relaxation, meditation, and communion with nature.

The Kids’ Multicultural Art Book: Art & Craft Experiences from Around the World by Alexandra M. Terzian

Discovered during a recent visit to our local library, The Kids’ Multicultural Art Book has given more than I expected from a craft book. Creative ideas, simple materials and cultural context combine into an amazing starting point for dozens of rewarding projects. Our copy (once renewed) is stuffed with sticky notes marking the many ideas my 6-year-old can’t wait to try; never mind that we’ve completed eight adorable crafts already. I anticipate a smile from the librarian when he trots to the desk next week to renew it again.