Anne Lamott is known for her New York Times best-selling books, including Traveling Mercies and Operating Instructions.
She has also written several novels, including Rosie and Crooked Little Heart. In addition to her writing, Lamott is a political activist and outspoken supporter of liberal causes.
Lamott was born in San Francisco in 1954. Her father, Kenneth Lamott, was a writer and editor; her mother, Margaret Lamott, was a stay-at-home mom. Lamott has two older brothers, Robert and Andrew.
Here are some books that Anne Lamott recommends, from classics to contemporary fiction.
Brave New Medicine by Cynthia Li
In her book, “Brave New Medicine” Cynthia Li offers an insightful look into the world of modern medicine and the brave new frontier it is forging. She explores the history of medicine and how it has evolved over time to become the cutting-edge science it is today.
She also looks at the challenges faced by medical professionals and patients alike as we grapple with issues such as access to care, affordability, and ethical concerns.
Li’s book is a timely and important contribution to our understanding of medicine and its place in our society. It is sure to provoke thought and discussion among readers about the direction we are headed in terms of medical care.
Happy All the Time by Laurie Colwin
In her book “Happy All the Time”, Colwin explores the idea that happiness comes from within and is something that needs to be worked on.
Colwin’s advice for achieving happiness is both simple and profound. She urges readers to find joy in everyday moments, cultivate friendships and relationships, and live with intention. For Colwin, happiness was not about chasing after rainbows or winning the lottery; it was about living a good life.
Colwin’s insights on happiness are just as relevant today as they were when her book was first published. Her advice is timeless and her message is one that we all need to hear again and again: Happiness comes from within.
Hour of the Witch by Chris Bohjalian
In his novel, Hour of the Witch, Chris Bohjalian explores the dark side of witch hunts in 17th-century New England. Set against the backdrop of the Salem witch trials, the story follows Sarah Carrier, a young woman accused of witchcraft.
Sarah is put on trial and her fate lies in the hands of Cotton Mather, a Puritan minister who believes firmly in the power of witches. As the trial progresses, Sarah must confront her own fears and doubts about her innocence.
With its atmospheric setting and fascinating characters, Hour of the Witch is a gripping tale of paranoia and persecution. Bohjalian has crafted a masterful historical thriller that is sure to keep readers spellbound.
Praying for Sheetrock by Melissa Fay Greene
In her book, Praying for Sheetrock, Melissa Fay Greene tells the story of a small town in Georgia that was struggling with racism and poverty. The town was divided between the white community and the black community, and there was little communication or understanding between them.
However, when a young black man was killed by a white police officer, the two communities came together to support each other.
Greene paints a picture of a town that is slowly changing for the better. She shows how the people of this town are working to improve their lives, and how they are learning to trust and respect each other. This is an inspiring story of hope and healing in the face of adversity.
Strangers in Their Own Land by Arlie Russell Hochschild
In her book Strangers in Their Own Land, Arlie Russell Hochschild attempts to understand what it is like to be a conservative in today’s America. She spent five years living in Louisiana, interviewing people from all walks of life. What she found was that many conservatives feel like they are the ones who are misunderstood and demonized by the liberal elite.
Hochschild argues that we cannot truly understand another person’s point of view unless we are willing to walk a mile in their shoes. She challenges us to see the world through the eyes of those with whom we disagree. Only then can we hope to find common ground and build a more just and equitable society.
Tennessee Williams by John Lahr
John Lahr’s book on Tennessee Williams is a fascinating look at the life and work of one of America’s greatest playwrights.
Lahr traces Williams’ life from his upbringing in the American South to his success on Broadway and his later years in Hollywood. He explores Williams’ complex relationships with his family, friends, and colleagues, and how they shaped his work.
Lahr’s book is a must-read for anyone interested in Tennessee Williams or in American theater history.
The Book of Orange by Mark Childress
Mark Childress’s The Book of Orange is a haunting and beautiful novel about love, loss, and redemption.
Told through the eyes of an unnamed narrator, The Book of Orange is the story of a young man’s journey to find himself and the love he lost along the way.
Childress’s writing is lyrical and evocative, and his characters are richly drawn and deeply human. The Book of Orange is a moving and unforgettable novel that will stay with you long after you’ve turned the last page.
The Illustrated Rumi by Jelaluddin Rumi
In The Illustrated Rumi, author and artist Jelaluddin Rumi draws on the 13th-century Sufi poet’s vast body of work to create an intimate and accessible portrait. Rumi’s words are brought to life through more than 150 stunning illustrations, providing readers with a new way to experience his timeless message of love, beauty, and transcendence.
Rumi is one of the world’s most popular poets, and his work has been translated into over 40 languages. The Illustrated Rumi offers readers a unique and beautiful approach to his writing, making it the perfect introduction for those new to his work. Longtime fans will also appreciate the fresh perspective on familiar poems.
When Women Stop Hating Their Bodies by Jane R. Hirschmann
In her book, “When Women Stop Hating Their Bodies”, Jane R. Hirschmann offers a radical new approach to body image and self-esteem. She argues that the root of most women’s body hatred is not physical, but emotional.
Hirschmann believes that the key to overcoming body hatred is to understand and address the emotions that lead to it. She offers a comprehensive program for doing just that, including specific exercises and techniques for managing negative emotions.
With compassion and insight, Hirschmann shows us that it is possible to develop a healthy relationship with our bodies – one based on acceptance, respect, and care. This is an essential read for any woman who wants to finally make peace with her body.
Wintering by Katherine May
“Wintering” by Katherine May, This book is the perfect read for anyone who needs a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
May takes readers on a journey through the English countryside, where they will learn about the different ways animals prepare for winter. They will also discover how to find beauty in the coldest season.
With stunning prose and gorgeous illustrations, Wintering is a must-read for anyone looking to cozy up this winter.
Women, Food and God by Geneen Roth
In her book, Women, Food and God, Geneen Roth argues that our relationship with food is a reflection of our relationship with ourselves and with God. She writes that “the way we eat reflects the way we live,” and that “food is not the enemy.”
Roth contends that dieting only leads to feelings of deprivation, which in turn lead to binge eating and all sorts of other issues with food. Instead of dieting, she advocates for listening to our bodies and eating intuitively.
Roth’s book has been praised by many for its insights into the female experience with food. Her message is one of self-acceptance and healing, which is something that resonates deeply with many women.
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