Megan B.'s Reviews

Mary Oliver’s latest collection of poems showcases both old and new perspectives on the experiences that we encounter within the space that surrounds us. At times, Oliver humors us readers, writing of yoga and meditation while noting the highly intelligible lifestyle of a still-standing stone. Mostly though, Oliver does what she does best: shining slight light on the beauty of the natural world. She will leave you breathless and amazed, staring in wonderment at the ancient oak tree outside your window that you had long overlooked.

This latest collection of Rumi poems contains simple yet insightful commentary on the beauty of friendship and the art of loving those around us. Coleman Barks provides a wonderful translation of both Rumi and Shams Tabriz. Companions for a brief time, the two poets acted as muses to one another. Their poetry reflects this great friendship and each poet’s distinct personality. I found these poems easily relatable and without any compromise to their intelligence. A great text for both old and young, Rumi: Soul Fury is a lovely addition to anyone’s bookshelf.

During the final years of her life, the Egyptian queen Hatshepsut had a pair of obelisks erected that were inscribed with the following passage: “Now my heart turns this way and that, as I think what the people will say—those who shall see my monuments in years to come, and who shall speak of what I have done.” Dear reader, this book will have you speaking about what Queen Hatshepsut has done. Make your fourth-grade teacher proud with your newfound knowledge of one of history’s most vibrant figures.

If you’re a fan of designers Charles and Ray Eames, or just fans of good design in general, this is the book for you. Eames: Beautiful Details is a visual history of the designing duo whose work included architecture, furniture, textiles, products, graphic design, toys, and photography. Even those who are unfamiliar with the designers will swoon at this beauty of a book. A smaller, more affordable reprint of the 2012 original (which was $200), Beautiful Details is a great companion for anyone with an eye for style and a mind for design.

This is not the book I expected Haruki Murakami to write. This book is simple and subtle in both language and plot. The protagonist, Tsukuru Tazaki, leads the reader through both his past and present experiences, as he seeks out the answer to a question that has continued to plague him. The plot will, no doubt, interest you. However, I feel that the soul of this book is better found in Murakami's language; presenting weighted moments with such elegance. This book is evidence of why we love Murakami, because of his ability to give energy to what is otherwise merely empty space.

This continues to be one of my favorite books. It incorporates all the best that life has to offer within the context of a bourgeois apartment in the center of modern-day Paris. Muriel Barbery writes an original and thoughtful narrative between two different yet oddly similar characters. One, a bright­-beyond­-her­-years twelve year old, and the other, a widowed yet highly cultured concierge. Thus ensues a beautiful and thought-provoking philosophical discussion.