The Winter Solstice, happening on Dec. 21, is the shortest day and longest night of the year. It’s the darkest night of the year, making it the perfect time to relax, unwind and reset. To help you get in the solstice spirit, here are some book recommendations curated for you.
“The Winter Solstice” by Jan Davey Ellis & Ellen Jackson
Putting contemporary traditions in context, this cultural and historical overview of the Northern Hemisphere’s darkest time of year is certain to be illuminating for both kids and adults.
“The Myth of Normal: Trauma, Illness, & Healing in a Toxic Culture” by Daniel Maté & Gabor Maté
A physician’s take on the impact of the stresses of culture on the body, and his compassionate guide for health and healing.
“Wintering: The Power of Rest and Retreat in Difficult Times” by Katherine May
May is known for her books about drawing strength from nature. This lovely memoir is full of wintery scenes and pertinent lessons from plants and animals about dormancy.
“Rest is Resistance: A Manifesto” by Tricia Hersey
A call to reclaim sleep, daydreaming, naps and humanity in the face of unrelenting “grind culture” and its messages about our worth being solely in what we produce.
“How to Connect With Nature” by Tristan Gooley
A humorous and frank little book of advice and insight from an experienced natural navigator-explorer.
“The Fright Before Christmas: Surviving Krampus and Other Yuletide Monsters” by Jeff Belanger and T. Reed
As this thoroughly fun history of the folklore roots of Christmas reminds us, the longest nights of the year are a time for fear and monsters.
