A resource book for planning baptisms, naming ceremonies, weddings and civil partnerships and marking the many other significant moments of our nights and days. There are resources that do not assume any faith commitment, as well as ones that reflect Christian belief.

The beloved New York Times bestselling author reflects on home, family, friendships and writing in this deeply personal collection of essays. "The elegance of Patchett’s prose is seductive and inviting: with Patchett as a guide, readers will really get to grips with the power of struggles, failures, and triumphs alike." —Publisher's Weekly “Any story that starts will also end.” As a writer, Ann Patchett knows what the outcome of her fiction will be. Life, however, often takes turns we do not see coming. Patchett ponders this truth in these wise essays that afford a fresh and intimate look into her mind and heart. At the center of These Precious Days is the title essay, a surprising and moving meditation on an unexpected friendship that explores “what it means to be seen, to find someone with whom you can be your best and most complete self.” When Patchett chose an early galley of actor and producer Tom Hanks’ short story collection to read one night before bed, she had no idea that this single choice would be life changing. It would introduce her to a remarkable woman—Tom’s brilliant assistant Sooki—with whom she would form a profound bond that held monumental consequences for them both. A literary alchemist, Patchett plumbs the depths of her experiences to create gold: engaging and moving pieces that are both self-portrait and landscape, each vibrant with emotion and rich in insight. Turning her writer’s eye on her own experiences, she transforms the private into the universal, providing us all a way to look at our own worlds anew, and reminds how fleeting and enigmatic life can be. From the enchantments of Kate DiCamillo’s children’s books (author of The Beatryce Prophecy) to youthful memories of Paris; the cherished life gifts given by her three fathers to the unexpected influence of Charles Schultz’s Snoopy; the expansive vision of Eudora Welty to the importance of knitting, Patchett connects life and art as she illuminates what matters most. Infused with the author’s grace, wit, and warmth, the pieces in These Precious Days resonate deep in the soul, leaving an indelible mark—and demonstrate why Ann Patchett is one of the most celebrated writers of our time.

Falling asleep in front of a TV or computer screen, as many people do these days, is not the most relaxing way to end a busy day. What we do in the evening can affect our night’s sleep, disturbing our sleep patterns and dreams. Last in the Evening is Osho talking on a variety of subjects specially selected for the evening. It gives you a different option for ending your day, a taste of meditation that can carry you through the night. Simply find time in the evening to sit quietly, be with yourself, and read the suggested passage. The extracts here, and in the companion volume First in the Morning, are taken from intimate one-on-one talks with Osho, and he suggested this compilation of his insights on a variety of subjects that include the nature of bliss, joy, and meditation. Whether you are familiar with meditation or a newcomer to the inner world, these two invaluable books, separately or together, can make a real difference to how you approach each day, and your life.

A witty autobiographical work of fiction that takes a look at life through the eyes of a sister and brother as they try to figure it all out like the rest of us. And now. . .a poem! There was this guy at work who they told me not to get talking but when he finally spoke to me amongst men among men I found he had something pertinent to say funny how the intelligent are told not to speak or be heard.

An English/Spanish bilingual edition of Nancy Tillman's heartwarming debut picture book for readers of all ages, On the Night You Were Born / La Noche En Que Tu Naciste. On the night you were born, the moon smiled with such wonder that the stars peeked in to see you and the night wind whispered. "Life will never be the same." On the night you were born, the whole world came alive with thanksgiving. The moon stayed up till morning. The geese flew home to celebrate. Polar bears danced. On the night you were born you brought wonder and magic to the world. Here is a book that celebrates you. It is meant to be carried wherever life takes you, over all the roads, through all the years.