Wrap It Up!-Book Two

Books For Those That Embrace Weird Genuis

My Christmas wish for you is this, as we navigate through another trying year en masse, let books be the gift you choose to give. To others, and to yourself.

May they provide an escape, a perspective on the unimaginable, a lesson in how to do better, to be better, a door into a world of wonder, a glimpse at an everyday hero’s inspirational tale, a reminder that laughter is indeed the best medicine, that words and stories are sustenance for the soul, and in our darkest moments, a soft place to land.

Find a cozy spot, crack open a book and have a wonderful, joyous, and peaceful holiday season.

HYSTERICAL: A MEMOIR – ELISSA BASSIST (OUT NOW)

Over the span of 2 years, the author saw more than twenty medical professionals for a variety of ailments that were plaguing her. She had what millions of women had; pain that didn’t make sense to doctors, a body that didn’t align to science, and a psyche that didn’t conform to societal expectations. When an alternate health practitioner suggested to physical pain could be a result of caged fury, let’s just say the doors opened. Maybe blew open would be a better descriptor. Bassist hilariously unpacks what it’s like to be called dramatic or insane for speaking her mind or expressing her feelings. There is a long history of women being labelled as hysterical just for opening their mouths. In this staggeringly good book the mouth is open, and the truth is roaring out in a rally cry we all need to hear.

Tags…Feminist, Empowerment, Culture Of Health & Well Being

NERD: ADVENTURES IN FANDOM – MAYA PHILIPS (OUT NOW)

From the moment the author saw the opening scroll of The Empire Strikes Back, her life changed forever. Her formative years were spent loving science fiction sagas, superhero cartoons and iconic pop culture. So in other words, becoming a nerd. I am one so I can say that. In this book she delves into the mark many of these beloved properties leave on our minds and what they teach us about diversity, religion, self-expression and more. Built of self-contained essays, this is perfect for the casual fan or the hardcore follower. You will be proud of your nerdiness if you’ve got it or long for it if you don’t.

Tags…Pop Culture, Connection & Community, Coming Of Age

THE PUZZLER: A QUEST TO SOLVE – A.J. JACOBS (OUT NOW)

A rollicking journey to understanding the enduring power and intrigue of puzzles; why we love them, what they do to our brains and how they can change the world. What makes puzzles so satisfying? Is it the formation of new cerebral pathways, their link to insight and entertainment or something deeper? The author, master of immersive and accessible journalism, sets out to illustrate their myriad of benefits. Along the way he encounters the most zealous of devotees, enters intensely competitive competitions and aims to solve the most impossible puzzles. Maybe he will figure out the meaning of life along the way. If anyone can, it’s this guy.

Tags…Puzzles, Mysteries & Magic, Brain Power

And a few more…

Dickens & Prince: A Particular Kind Of Genuis – Nick Hornby

The Ink In The Grooves – Florence Dore

Seven Games: A Human History – Oliver Roeder