In this blog post, I am sharing a few books that I have enjoyed reading and listening to this past month.
Reading is not only relaxing, but it is also an enriching activity that can bring us an array of benefits. From expanding our vocabulary to boosting our creativity, (one of my favorite benefits!) books are an endless source of knowledge and entertainment.
I think you might enjoy this selection!
Styling Beyond Instagram by Robin Zachary
I attended a zoom workshop given by Robin and I’d like to share her new book! Styling Beyond Instagram is a perfect read for anyone who aspires to take their photography skills to the next level. It is a comprehensive guide that provides valuable tips and tricks to enhance the visual appeal of your photographs.
The book explores techniques, props, and easy to implement ideas to produce a significant impact on a photographs' overall look.
And…if you are not a photographer you will still enjoy and be inspired by the beautiful images and quotes throughout the book!
Quick Changes Edited by Barbara King
Even though this was published in 2013 this book is loaded with ideas and tips that are timeless.
I found this book by searching “refresh” at our library. As you know REFRESH is one of our words for 2023! This book is filled with practical and simple ideas that can be easily implemented to upgrade every room's look.
From rearranging furniture to adding a pop of color or a few accessories, this book provides many cost-effective ways to transform your home's appearance.
Conscious Creativity by Philippa Stanton
The third book, "Conscious Creativity," is an excellent choice for anyone looking to stimulate their creativity. The author, Philippa Stanton, brings a unique perspective on creativity, delving into what it means to be creative and how to tap into that side of one’s self.
I read this book while we were in Greece and it has several references to Greek art which I found to be an interesting coincidence!
There is also a workbook that offers practical exercises and prompts to put the concepts discussed in the book into practice.
And…as you probably already know…I’m hooked on Louise Penny mysteries! So…I am continuing to read my way through the Inspector Armand Gamache series. Having a REAL book in my hand at night is a good way to unplug from all my devices!
"The Nature of the Beast" follows the protagonist Chief Inspector Armand Gamache, who is tasked with solving a murder mystery in a small town in Quebec, Canada. The book has well-crafted characters and the plot keeps you guessing until the end. Louise Penny's writing style is engaging, and she does an excellent job of keeping you hooked from start to finish. I learn something new about history or interesting places every time I read one of her books.
Whether you are interested in photography, interior design, creativity, or mystery novels, these books are guaranteed to entertain, educate and inspire you. So…I hope you will take some time for yourself to enjoy one or all of these books!
Audible Listening in the Studio
Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver
A compelling story about a young boy who is put in foster care after his mother dies. It is a peek into our child custody system and the opioid crisis through the eyes of a child.
The Space Between Us by Thrity Umrigar
Set in India and follows two women of different classes and their friendship over years of service and being served.
Black Butterflies by Sara Alexi (in progress)
Set in Greece. A mother tries to keep a long hidden secret that could impact her daughter’s upcoming marriage.
That’s it for this month!
Do you have a good book recommendation? Please leave a comment below. We can inspire each other!
Just in time for Spring This is my favorite gardening tool…EVER! Use it for digging, planting, and cutting! A perfect gift for your beloved gardener…even if that’s you!
Beautiful and functional wood brushes for all your kitchen needs. Replace your plastic dish brushes with something natural and aesthetically pleasing…after all…if you have to do dishes…you might as well enjoy the tools!