The holidays are upon us. Joyful? Yes! But this season can also be a little stressful, at least if you’re hosting a dinner party (or attending about 15 of them in the next four weeks).
In December, Mechanics’ Institute staff have selected a few books to help you unwind, and maybe remind you that it’s not what you give (or get!) that makes for holiday cheer. To get a jumpstart on a New Year’s Resolution to enjoy the moments that make up each day, staff will be recommending books on what makes us relax, feel exhilarated, and generally enjoy life. You’re likely to find a few books that inspire you to value your own pleasure, so check out the Staff Picks display on the second floor and see if you find a book that delights you.
Andrea recommends Excellent Women by Barbara Pym (FIC)
Pym’s characters are always sitting down to a cup of tea, cooking a little supper, reading a book before bed, having non-earth shattering misunderstandings and romances that always end happily. The humor is subtle and dry and can be applied to many communities where people rub elbows with each other over a period of time.
Deb recommends The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg (FIC)
Even though we have no children in our home, every Christmas we read The Polar Express. This magical book transports the reader to the innocence of childhood when Santa Claus, the North Pole and elves were part of what we believed in and looked forward to all year long. You can also check out the DVD, though I've not ever been able to watch it. The book is too precious to me and I cannot imagine that a video could do it justice!
Mechanics’ Institute Library has many holiday-themed children's books and films. Share them with a child in your life, or just enjoy them yourself!
Taryn recommends Martin Eden by Jack London (FIC)
If you can put this book down you are not human! This novel beautifully details the extraordinary evolution of a writer -- a must read for all locals.
Heather recommends How We Live Our Yoga: Teachers and Practitioners on How Yoga Enriches, Surprises, and Heals Us personal stories edited by Valerie Jeremijenko (181.4 H84)
I recently re-started yoga practice after realizing that my life contained more stress and less calm when I wasn’t practicing. This book of essays by fourteen different practitioners is a reminder that we are all beginners and there are myriad ways to “live our yoga”, whether our calendars are full or clear.
