Creative Nonfiction

An intimate, revelatory book exploring the ways we can care for and repair ourselves when life knocks us down. Sometimes you slip through the cracks: unforeseen circumstances like an abrupt illness, the death of a loved one, a breakup, or a job loss can derail a life. These periods of dislocation can be lonely and unexpected. For May, her husband fell ill, her son stopped attending school, and her own medical issues led her to leave a demanding job. Wintering explores how she not only endured this painful time, but embraced the singular opportunities it offered. A moving personal narrative shot through with lessons from literature, mythology, and the natural world, May's story offers instruction on the transformative power of rest and retreat. Illumination emerges from many sources: solstice celebrations and dormice hibernation, C.S. Lewis and Sylvia Plath, swimming in icy waters and sailing arctic seas. Ultimately Wintering invites us to change how we relate to our own fallow times. May models an active acceptance of sadness and finds nourishment in deep retreat, joy in the hushed beauty of winter, and encouragement in understanding life as cyclical, not linear. A secular mystic, May forms a guiding philosophy for transforming the hardships that arise before the ushering in of a new season.

This feels like a book you live with rather than simply finish. David Whyte writes with a calm, searching wisdom that turns ordinary moments, family love, travel, loss, and belonging into something quietly profound. If you like poetry that feels human, spacious, and returning, this is the kind of collection readers keep close and revisit when life shifts.

If you're dreaming of or planning an adventure to Ecuador or the Galapagos Islands, this guide is like your personal travel whisperer. It's not just about the 'must-sees'; it also reveals hidden gems that might not be on every tourist's radar. With cultural insights and practical tips, whether you're into history, nature, or just soaking in local flavors, this book is a trove of travel wisdom to make your trip unforgettable.

If you're looking to add a tranquil touch to that cosy corner of your backyard, "Water Features for Small Gardens" could be just the inspiration you need. Ethne Clarke guides you through varied designs, each scalable to fit your space. It's perfect for aspiring gardeners who want to bring the calming sound of water to their personal oases without feeling overwhelmed by complex landscaping projects.

Recommended for readers seeking passionate environmental advocacy.