Reading to Heal: Recommendations from our alumni authors
In response to COVID-19 and its challenges, we asked some of our alumni authors for their top reads to help us to keep going through difficult times. The next author to provide their book recommendations as part of our Reading to Heal feature is alumna and recently published author Aimée King.
Despite only graduating from the University of Liverpool a few weeks ago, Aimée has used her time during the COVID-19 lockdown to publish the empath, a book of her own poetry with illustrations by an artist and friend, Orla Bradfield.
Acknowledging the need for reflection and self-exploration now more than ever, Aimée’s novel aims to provide some guidance during such uncertain times. Aimée said: “the empath is inspired by nature, relationships and society. I just graduated with a degree in Ecology and use this study of the earth to question the state of the world and how we can create change through a revolution of consciousness.”
On her recommendations, Aimée said: “Like lots of people, I spent lockdown reading which served to heal through escapism, education and spiritual exploration.”
Fear: Essential Wisdom for Getting Through the Storm by Thich Nhat Hanh
“I began by reading Fear: Essential Wisdom for Getting Through the Storm by Thich Nhat Hanh, a zen master whose words provided much insight in such difficult times, where fear seemed to rise out of everyone. This book is ideal for anyone who has felt anxiety, meditates or has any interest in spirituality.
Girl, Woman, Other by Bernardine Evaristo
“Second, is the much talked about Girl, Woman, Other, which deserves all the credit it has received. Bernardine Evaristo entwines the stories of each character in such depth and beauty. I did not think I liked fiction much, but this felt so real that I really do believe anyone would enjoy this book. With the current momentum with the Black Lives Matter movement and celebration of Pride, the perspective of this book feels more essential than ever.
Salt. by Nayyirah Waheed
“Finally, Salt. by Nayyirah Waheed is my favourite book of poetry, she has inspired my writing since I started. Her poems are raw, delicate, accessible, everything. I read it cover-to-cover, but you could as easily dip in randomly. A beautiful voice, a beautiful book.”
Aimée’s debut novel is available in-store at News From Nowhere on Bold Street, through all online book sellers (including The Book Depository and Waterstones) and to order through all high street stores (including all independent bookshops and WHSmith).