Things to Look Forward To

In times of dismay and sadness, when the spirit is low, some everyday antidotes can help to somewhat remedy the malaise. Australian writer and illustrator Sophie Blackall has itemized some activities that helped her neutralize the melancholy inflicted by the past pandemic fears and accompanied with personal grief. These are such common practices as perking up with fresh brewed coffee or being comforted by sipping a tidy cup of tea can soothe the savage soul.

Through these suggested cheering activities that help to assuage sorrow, the author acquaints the reader with references to the highs and lows she has experienced in her life. But most radiating are the delightfully colored pastel images accompanying the acts of hugging a friend, stamping one’s feet in freshly fallen snow, or reflecting by the sea. While the text is minimal, the descriptions remind the reader of all the small unrealized joys that one can turn to in times of sadness, such as watching babies, or observing the variety of birds as they feed, or even foolishly drawing faces on eggs for your own amusement.

Definitely light reading, but most engaging are the charming, whimsical illustrations that accompany the more than fifty listed upbeat activities.