Wolf Sanctuary by Chuck Rineer
Wolf Sanctuary by Chuck Rineer is a dazzling compilation of photographs that the author took of the wolves at Wolf Sanctuary of PA, a preservation and education facility run by the Darlington family.
There are ten chapters, each with brief written introductions, and full of stunning photos. While there is text at the beginning of each chapter, the bulk is devoted to these majestic beasties. The first chapter introduces the human element- the staff of Wolf Sanctuary. Other chapters focus on topics such as denning, pups, wolfsong, exercise/play, rest/relaxation, and feeding dynamics. It’s easy to see the depth and complexity of not just the packs themselves, but of the individual wolves. My favourites were the pics of the pups, and of adults sleeping in the snow, though Thor was my favourite wolf. He’s blind, which I can relate to.
This is a perfect gift for any who love wolves, or nature photography in general, and would make a lovely coffee table book.
***Many thanks to Netgalley and Schiffer Publishing for providing an egalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
The Elements of San Joaquin by Gary Soto
The Elements of San Joaquin by Gary Soto is a beautiful, haunting collection of poems. Divided into three sections, these poems focus on different aspects. Part one is full of gritty poems illuminating the stark reality of the poor and disenfranchised. One of the most haunting among this section is ‘The Morning They Shot Tony Lopez, Barber and Pusher Went Too Far’. For me, this is because, though circumstances may have differed, it brought memories of my cousin’s murder. Part Two focuses on scenes of nature and agriculture. Yet, even here, there are echoes and shouts speaking to the futility of life. One of the most evocative is near the beginning of the section, and this is ‘Weeds’, emphasising both that futility, as of the farmer trying tirelessly to be rid of weeds, and of life’s tenacity, for weeds are notoriously difficult to extinguish. The last part returns to human experience, looking back to a childhood fading. Highly recommended for all who enjoy well-wrought poetry.
***Many thanks to Netgalley and Chronicle Books for providing an egalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Purrfection by Sophie Macheteau
Purrfection by Sophie Macheteau is a cute little book with lots of adorable kittie photos. This book delves briefly into the history of cats as domesticates, and investigates ways we can use our furry companies to de-stress.
Now, if you already have a cat, you’ll know first hand the power of purrs. Having my furbaby curl in my lap and start buzzing a storm is a near instant release of tension. This book looks at other ways to utilize your furry companion, such as yoga with kitty. This, I think, requires a more compliant cat than my Persephone! There are kitty crafts too! There are sections on cat behaviour and language, and suggested apps for your cat. Persephone had no interest in these, though our two kittens surely did! A must have for any cat lover.
***Many thanks to Netgalley and Schiffer Publishing for providing an egalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Be Happy! by Dr Rebecca Ray
In Be Happy!, Dr Rebecca Ray introduces us to 35 different strategies for cultivating happiness. Over the course of the book, she is careful to stress that ‘happiness’ is a transient emotion, and what we are really seeking is improved quality of well-being. The techniques are broken into 4 sections- choosing, cultivating, practising, and making space for.
Choosing gives tips on turning your focus to important virtues. Topics include: laughter, gratitude, courage and self-love, Cultivating turns that focus to different areas of our lives. Topics include: rest and sleep, a calm environment, and your values. Practising is mostly about learning to be mindful and open in our lives. Topics include: creativity, forward momentum, and setting boundaries. The final area- Making Space For gives tips and tricks to improve quality of life. Topics include: imperfection, holding onto pain, and forgiveness.
Many of these strategies I was already aware of, but not all. Even so, the way Dr Ray has arranged everything, so neatly laid out, it was a pleasure to read. These tips and tricks are easy and accessible. Reading it prompted my to restart gratitude journal, and turn it into a meme/ tag for my blog. Highly recommended for any looking to better themselves, and improve their coping skills.
***Many thanks to Netgalley and Quarto Publications for providing an egalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
