Mind, Body & Spirit

Drawing on her experiences as a hospice chaplain, Kerry Egan writes about the long-held secrets and startling revelations of those on the precipice of dying. An examination of the nostalgia that is brought about by mortality and the boundless spirituality that comes with it, On Living is a powerful read that brings our buried fears to the fore and leaves its readers wondering if they are truly living their life to the fullest.  —Aric

When her marriage falls apart, Melton (a blogger by trade) does the only thing she can: She writes every brutal truth with surgical precision for the world to see. Glennon speaks secrets about being a person that you feel never should be voiced, but in a way that compels you to look at your own shortcomings and come to terms with them. This book tore me to pieces but left me with a pleasant ache of hope.  —Ivy

Larry Brilliant—activist, teacher, entrepreneur, and spiritual leader—has led a remarkable life. In his inspiring memoir, he shares stories of his journey, from marching with Dr. King to helping eradicate smallpox, treating blindness, and leading Google’s philanthropic arm, Google.org. “[Sometimes Brilliant] is a rare bridge between science and spirituality, and a reminder that real progress in improving the lives of other human beings is within our grasp.”—Steven Johnson. “One of the best books I’ve ever read, period. An extraordinary adventure, scientific odyssey, and spiritual journey of the highest orders. Beautifully written and deeply inspiring; a klieg light in the darkness. Brilliant in every way!” —Dean Ornish, MD

Elizabeth Lesser introduces Marrow as a love story, not a memoir of grief. When her sister Maggie requires a bone marrow transplant and Lesser is a perfect match, the sisters wholeheartedly, messily push into the emotional and spiritual core of their relationship. With staggering tenderness and humor, Marrow brings us the last years of Maggie’s life and shows how a sisterhood as imperfectly complex as any other is made transcendent by two people’s commitment to ultimate vulnerability and authenticity. Reader advisory: Do not read in public with mascara on.  —Julia

Local author Beverly Molina's book is fantastic! It's a straightforward guide/memoir about listening to oneself, living in the moment & overcoming fear! Molina tells the story of her transition from working in Silicon Valley to pursuing her dream of serving people through compassion. Her journey of self-discovery leads her on the path to becoming a firefighter! A must read for inspiration seekers! –Ashley 

“In converting her lectures to this fascinating book, Herman convincingly argues that closely analyzing works of art is an empowering exercise that translates to seeing the ‘hidden’ clues in many real-life scenarios. With practice, she argues, everyone has an innate ‘visual intelligence’ waiting to be refined. Sharp and original, this book should alter how readers look at the world.” —Kirkus Reviews

If Guillebeau’s bestseller The $100 Startup was the guide on how to work for yourself, here’s a manifesto on making work meaningful. Even if your dream isn’t to launch a startup or break a record, that doesn’t mean you’re stuck with a brain-draining, crazy-making job. Born For This is intelligent encouragement toward figuring out what kind of work matches your skills, interests, and lifestyle needs—and gives you fulfillment and a steady paycheck.  —Julia

In Smarter Better Faster, bestselling author Charles Duhigg looks at eight important concepts that help explain how some people are so successful. These concepts, backed with findings in neuroscience, psychology and behavior patterns, help the reader identify with each concept in a relatable and manageable way. Learn how to work smarter, faster and better with this quality study in how people do things so well.  —Kate

You don’t have to be a professional artist to want to nurture curiosity, creativity, and courage. Interested in the playful, un-jaded side of yourself? Perhaps you’re ready to cut out the (obnoxious, by the way) “tortured artist” act and create joyfully? Elizabeth Gilbert’s unpretentious manifesto/guidebook on creativity, inspiration, and work encourages a life-changing dive into “fierce trust,” “stubborn gladness,” and permission to explore. With her delightful humor and wisdom shining, Gilbert is honest about her convictions, candid about her failings and doubts. Standing out from the sea of self-help shticks, Big Magic is beyond refreshing.  —Julia

This is a beautiful collection of Zen in union with calligraphy. The flowing movements of Thich Nhat Hanh’s brushstrokes serve to unlock the mind, which allows the teachings to penetrate deep into one’s heart. This marriage of art and wisdom would make a wonderful gift for the advanced practitioner or someone with a beginning pull toward Buddhism.  —Norbu