‘This book is about so many things, but it comes down to finding grace in the ordinary and awe in the magnificence of the universe. Every page is about gratitude; every line is a conversation with the reader for ‘puzzling over the nature of things’. Each time I dive into it, I emerge shining.’ KATHRYN MANNIX, author of With the End in Mind

‘A luminously written reminder not to deny the inevitable rough patches of life, but to acknowledge them; to look out, up and around and discover the light that exists, even in the darkest of places.'
KATE SAWYER, author of The Stranding

‘I loved this book. A cupped hand full of light in a darkened world. A collection of glittering curios. I’ll hold it close in trying times.’ CAL FLYN, author of Islands of Abandonment

‘A moving and beautiful exploration of surviving dark and difficult times. Baird’s writing shines light on simple but important truths.’ SUE STUART-SMITH, author of The Well Gardened Mind

‘An enchanting meditation on the importance of nurturing our own phosphorescence’ Caroline Sanderson, THE BOOKSELLER

‘This book is a love letter to the world by a brilliant writer who nearly left it. Julia Baird has gone into the depths of human experience—her own, and others’ —and come back with this luminous and profound celebration of people and the planet. A treasure to read and re-read your whole life.’ ANNA FUNDER, bestselling author of Stasiland

‘Julia Baird is an alchemist, turning the dross of her life’s harshest blows into shimmering prose. Ravaged by a broken heart and debilitating cancer, she undertakes a careful examination of what might yet sustain her. Both timeless and timely, this is a book of wisdom and wonder.’ GERALDINE BROOKS