Mind, Body & Spirit

Anne Lamott wants us to start living like we value forgiveness and humility more than we value being right and winning. Unlikely in these divisive times, you say? Yet Hallelujah Anyway makes a reasonable case that we can, and should, start within our personal lives, weaving lofty spiritual wisdom with a dose of cynicism and silliness. In true Lamott fashion, even the God-talk isn’t dogmatic, but resonates as inspiring and relevant. - Julia

“The Art of Waiting is an eye-opening, gorgeously written blend of memoir, reportage, and cultural analysis....Examining infertility and childlessness through the lens of her own struggle to become pregnant, Boggs presents not only a courageous account of her personal experience but an illuminating, wide-ranging study of the medical, psychological, social, and historical aspects of a condition that affects one in eight couples nationwide.” —Boston Globe

Brittany Maynard was not yet 30 when she was diagnosed with terminal brain cancer. She became famous through her advocating for the right to end her own life. Wild and Precious Life is her mother’s story, a poignant memoir in which we see a life lived to the fullest, we witness a mother who struggles to support the decision her daughter has made, and we watch how one family’s intimate decision transforms a nation’s dialogue about choice in end-of-life decision making. This is a story about life and how fierce and enduring we can be when we look fully at all that comes.                                                              —S.M.C.

Rare autobiographical stories told for the first time by a great teacher and peace activist. Those who are already keen on the teachings of the Vietnamese monk will love learning more about his formative years. In his always accessible prose, the former Ivy League lecturer writes stories that will also appeal to fans of memoir and anyone interested in Vietnam War–era history. A blend of powerful storytelling and transformative wisdom by the world’s most famous Zen master.                   —Jason

This unique collaboration documents the dialogue and friendship between two of the world’s wise men. It is a sweet and funny book that includes meditation techniques and other simple ways to have a spiritual practice in the face of life’s many obstacles. But this is not just a book for people who read “spiritual” books. It is for everyone who wants to find true happiness. I highly recommend this light and uplifting read. —Jason

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