We have an ever changing pile of books in a number of places throughout the house. In the bay window on the antique side table, we have a pile as much a part of our home’s decor as they are gateways to other worlds. This selection, a blend of gifts (the first four are from a Shakespeare and Company book subscription) and personal picks, not only decorates our space but also invites a journey into diverse narratives and profound insights.
You can buy all of these books at Bookshop.org – if you buy through this link or any of the links below you will help support Cow Island as well as your local bookshops!
- “Winter Love” by Han Dong – A poignant exploration of love and loneliness, reflecting the chill and warmth of its title. This novel, translated from Chinese, offers a unique perspective on relationships and personal growth.
- “The Cat Prince & Other Poems” by Michael Pedersen – A delightful dive into poetry with whimsical and touching verses that capture the quirks of everyday life and the enchanting myths that color our world.
- “Choice” by Neel Mukherjee – A profound narrative that delves deep into the complexities of decisions and destinies, exploring how our choices shape our paths in unexpected ways.
- “Get the Picture: A Mind-Bending Journey among the Inspired Artists and Obsessive Art Fiends Who Taught Me How to See” by John Gossage – This visually striking book merges art with narrative, offering insights into the power of seeing and the impact of visual arts on personal perspective.
- “Brutus: The Noble Conspirator” by Kathryn Tempest – A historical deep-dive into the life of one of Rome’s most famous figures, exploring the political intrigue and personal dilemmas of Marcus Junius Brutus.
- “The Iliad” by Homer – An epic cornerstone of literature, presented in a new translation that brings the battles and heroics of ancient Greece to life with renewed vigor and relevance.
- “Heresy: Jesus Christ and the Other Sons of God” by Catherine Nixey – Challenges traditional narratives by exploring the historical and controversial aspects of early Christian history, providing a thought-provoking examination of what ‘heresy’ meant in the context of its time.
- “Shakespeare and Company, Paris: A History of a Rag & Bone Shop of the Heart” – a pretty book about a beautiful bookshop with soul. Not available at bookshop.org but you can find it at their store, here

