I never expected a novel set in a cemetery to feel so full of life, warmth, humor, heartbreak, flowers, friendship, and hope—but Fresh Water for Flowers by Valerie Perrin completely captivated me. It’s a beautiful story about loss, love, and learning how to begin again. … [Read more...] about Fresh Water for Flowers

Since it’s graduation season, I’ve been thinking again about George Saunders’ wonderful little book Congratulations, by the Way, based on the commencement address he gave in 2013. And honestly? It still completely holds up.

Of all the advice he could have given graduating students, Saunders’ central message was surprisingly simple: Be kinder. Sooner.

What makes the book so powerful is that he doesn’t preach. He tells stories—funny, strange, human stories about mistakes, regrets, and … [Read more...] about Congratulations, by the way

I’ll never look at my mail carrier the same way again after reading Mailman by Stephen Starring Grant. What begins as the story of a man forced to reinvent himself during the pandemic becomes a fascinating and often funny look at the hidden world of the USPS, the people who keep it running, and the communities they quietly connect every single day. … [Read more...] about Mailman

In this highly acclaimed best seller, Priya Parker argues that the gatherings in our lives are lackluster and unproductive — and they don't have to be. At a time when coming together is more important than ever, Parker sets forth a human-centered approach to gathering that will help everyone create meaningful, memorable experiences, large and small, for work and for play. … [Read more...] about The Art of Gathering: How We Meet and Why It Matters