For the enthused reader...
It all begins with desire. Maybe it’s for pleasure. Maybe it’s for perspective. Or maybe you simply want to become a better reader. Whichever it is, your relationship with your library should be intimate. I hope something below catches your attention.
An alternating list of my favourite adventures.
Three Good Reads
THE FEMINIST
Author | Mikki Kendall
Review | Hood Feminism is an inspiring, well-written, and researched revolutionary read. In this book, Kendall talks extensively about various issues that disproportionately affect the Black community (mainly women) but never get talked about as important topics in the mainstream feminist circles. These are all issues that we are familiar with but Kendall does a great job of highlighting why they should be treated as feminist issues and how working to solve them will help women across all communities. This is recommended to anyone who likes reading about feminism or wants to know more about the work that has been/needs to be done in marginalized communities to solve systemic issues.
Price | $14
THE ALTERNATE HEALTH
Author | Dr. Vasant Lad
Review | Ayurveda; The Science of Self-Healing is a good introductory book to anyone interested in the ancient science of one of the oldest healing systems in the world. Dr. Lad explains the principles and practical applications of Ayurveda and its history, philosophy, basic principles, diagnostic techniques, treatment, diet, medicinal usage of a few kitchen herbs & spices, first aid, food aid, and more. I would recommend this book to anyone who would like to get a quick introduction to the Ayurvedic world. It provides good information on body types and the self-healing process. As with any health-related book, you should be mindful of your body, blood type, and the way your body responds to certain diets, techniques, and practices. What works for one person may not work for others. Internalize this with discretion and an open mind.
Price | $10
THE AFRICAN SHAMANISM
Author | Malidoma Patrice Somé
Review |The Healing Wisdom of Africa is one of the best books on spiritual concepts that I have ever read. In its broadest sense, Somé does very well at extending those concepts far beyond African or traditional or tribal beliefs. It’s a complete study of the role ritual plays in the lives of Indigenous people and the role it can play for seekers in the modern West. This book has touched me in so many ways. It perfectly describes the troubles of the Western, "modern" civilizations and offers pieces of African tribal wisdom about how to heal, reconnect, and thrive inside of a community — The importance and responsibility of remembering our purpose and creating that same space for the children born to the world/land. If you are a student of metaphysics, ancestry, spirituality, and the intimate relationship between us and the natural world, get this book. It’s a nostalgic treat. Even for the parts of yourself, you haven’t met yet.
Price | $13