cheesy quinoa fritters
When I was little, I always wanted to be an author. Creative writing was my favorite class and I imagined that's how I would live my life. Writing books in a small room with an old-fashioned typewriter, overlooking the ocean with gauzy curtains blowing in the soft breeze. I was also pretty detail-oriented ( if you don't already know.)
I was really fortunate because I always had teachers that encouraged that quest. Ones that really took the time to help me 'brainstorm' and put my ideas down on paper. They helped me learn to convey what I wanted to say- which isn't always as easy as it sounds. In fact, it's rather difficult. I think that's why I've always been drawn to really simple, well written, unfussy stories and novels. Sometimes it's best not to saturate your prose with too much detail but rather let the picture tell the story. The picture you've created in the minds of your readers.
Books are so incredible aren’t they? They have this powerful ability of suggestion. They make us ponder and reflect and wonder. They ignite this spark in us- this special something we often forget exists. They allow us to travel into unfamiliar places and feel and experience and live.
They are such amazing gifts.
And when we come across a book so compelling and gripping and perfect, we want to hold it close. We want to share it with everyone we know because it’s so poignant and significant, we want our loved ones to experience that euphoria for themselves.
For me, children’s authors are especially talented because they have this extraordinary ability to captivate both their intended audience and their parents. It’s remarkable really.
A few years ago, I discovered the best children's book in the world and it has become my absolute favorite. And not just my favorite children’s book.
One of my favorite books period.
It’s called Someday by Alison McGhee and it chronicles the journey of motherhood. On so many levels, this book is for mothers and fathers and grandparents and siblings and people who can relate to loving a child so deeply, that it leaves them emotionally raw.
My children love the pictures and I love the thought-provoking meaning. It’s unpretentious and honest, but I think it’s the simplicity that makes it noteworthy. A few words with a lot of importance.
When I first came across it, Nikolas and I were browsing a local bookstore on a rainy afternoon. He was about three at the time and I remember feeling completely mesmerized by this story. I quickly leafed through it and started crying in the middle of the bookstore and before I knew it, I was dragging Nikolas into a corner and grabbing mounds of tissue out of my purse. He must have thought I needed sheltering and support because he snuggled in close and kept patting me on the head.
And ever since that day, that book has had a special place on my living room shelf. I keep it separate from all other children's books because in moments of vulnerability, it’s the first thing I reach for. It leaves me with an unprecedented sense of truth I can’t really put into words. And often times, I think that’s just what I need.
It wasn’t my intention to write a book review but just the other day, Nikolas took this book off the shelf and brought it over to my mother. She started reading it to us and soon after she began, she started to sob. Just the way I did that first day in the bookstore.
And just the way I've done everytime I've read it since that day.
If you’re looking for a wonderful book to read to your children, and one you will absolutely adore, I highly recommend this one.
You won't regret it.
nicholetta
Reader Comments (3)
Nicholetta, this is ONE of my favorite books also. I keep it on my book shelf in my room and read it to the girls, and to myself often :)
..and these quinoa fritters look delicious! I am going to try them next week!
Thanks
Stella, this book has stolen my heart. It's amazing! xo