Book Recommendations

Bird by Bird: Some Instructions on Writing and Life
Written by Anne Lamott

This book was recommended by a writer on Twitter for those seeking direction in the craft. I will second it but go one further in recommending it to anyone. Bird by Bird is one of the most engaging, inspirational books I've ever read. I couldn't put it down allowing myself to become completely immersed in the author's words that veer from personal narrative to strategic advice in finding and feeding one's passion in life. As with anything, the objective of success should not be financial remuneration but personal fulfilment. This book acts as a compass to that state. 

Favourite line: "...there is something to be said for painting portraits of the people we have loved, for trying to express those moments that seem so inexpressibly beautiful, the ones that change us and deepen us."

To purchase Bird by Bird, click here. 

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Wanderlust: A Modern Yogi's Guide to Discovering Your Best Self
Written by Jeff Krasno

I bought this book thinking it was a travel guide with a mindfulness bent – and in a way, it is partly that – but after reading a few chapters, I realized that it was really a guidebook for Wanderlust festival, a yoga and music gathering marketed towards those needing enlightenment while living in the 'burbs. The book is very well designed and visually appealing, however, the content is pretty lacklustre and lacking depth into the spiritual side of the practices it promotes. 

Favourite line: "May your journey through your own grief awaken you to levels of knowing, empathy, and peace that free your own soul, open you to love big, and allow you to embrace the beauty, the sweetness, and the unbearable, but glorious, impermanence of it all."

To purchase Wanderlust, click here. 

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Chinatowns: Asian Cooking from Around the World in 100 Recipes
Written by Jean-Francois Mallet

This beautiful book is written as a cookbook but could just as well rest on one's coffee table as an art piece. The photography is lovely and the design is really well executed. The recipes themselves are not authentically Chinese; this book is about the culinary fusion that has happened as a result of Asian immigration around the world and how it's adapted to local tastes. In looking forward to an upcoming trip, I tried making chicken-fried rice and it turned out great. 

To purchase Chinatowns, click here. 

Fresh prep for making chicken-fried rice (©Deborah Clague)

My final creation (©Deborah Clague)

Book Recommendations

Zen in the Art of Writing
Written by Ray Bradbury

Writing is my favourite hobby. This blog was started about a decade ago just to give me a place to share my travels and photography. Since then I've experienced much growth and now utilize this space on the web as a means to articulate and record all facets of my life, good or bad. While this has provided much practice, I do want to write an actual, honest-to-goodness published book one day and have started learning from the masters in terms of refining my craft. Author Ray Bradbury is a prolific writer who has published scores of stories, novels, plays, poems, films and musicals (he even helped develop the Spaceship Earth ride at Disneyworld!). His essays in this book detail an approach to life where the muse is ever-present and feeding into one's imagination. Not a small task (especially when writer's block is present) but his candor and style of speech were very engaging and inspiring. 

Favourite line: "The one person irreplaceable to the world, of which there is no duplicate. You." 

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The Crime Book

Once a year or so, I go through a phase where I read up on true crime. The psychological aspects of it are fascinating to me, even though the feats of evil that some are capable of genuinely horrifies me. In fact, of all the books I've ever read there have been two where I had to immediately rid them off my property out of a weird fear that the negative energy contained within their pages would somehow manifest in my life (for the record, those books are "Invisible Darkness" by Stephen Williams and "On The Farm" by Stevie Cameron). This book by multiple authors and published by DK is more palatable in its writing and reference, acting as a summary of history's darkness without getting into too much detail. I always enjoy the design of DK's releases and look forward to reading more books from this series. 

Favourite line: I never really read up on the Italian Mafia so that section was a trip on organized crime. 

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Pornland
Written by Gail Dines

I read this book after watching an engaging TedTalk by the author, who holds a PhD and is also a professor of sociology and women's studies in the U.S.. In both, she examines the damaging effects of hardcore "gonzo" pornography on society, how it influences men's behaviour towards women and subsequently women's view towards themselves. Pornography itself is not a bad thing; sex is not a bad thing. But misogyny and violence are. This book intelligently details how all are connected. 

Favourite line: "A sexuality based on equality ultimately requires a society that is based on equality."

Recommended: Instagram Artists

I would once again like to shine a spotlight on some talented/thoughtful/vulnerable/strong female artists, illustrators and cartoonists that I've discovered on Instagram. Every day as I scroll through my feed, their art provides a connection to something bigger; their work a link to the shared experiences that 21st century women often don't discuss for fear of apathy, judgement or embarrassment (including taboo topics such as anxiety, depression and dealing with fuckboys). Worth a follow. Worth a like. 

@jane_newland: 

@lorynbrantz: 

@cartoonconnie: 

@bymarieandrew:

 @yeuujjn: 

@revelatori:

@ridingincabswithboys:

@seaniedraws: 

Book Recommendations

The Reason You Walk
Written by Wab Kinew

Being Canadian, I feel shame in how little knowledge I have about Indigenous culture. Yes, I received the mandated (edited) version of history in school but beyond that have not really delved deeper into the hardship that this community has faced as a result of colonialism. That changed a few years ago when I accepted a position at a post-secondary institute that has a strong commitment to Indigenous success. Through this role, I have had the privilege to hear many powerful stories on the subject which has given me the desire to listen more. This book adds another voice to those stories. It is an incredibly poignant memoir that shares the horrors of the residential school system and its after-effects; the transformative power of reconciliation; and what it's like to fight for Indigenous rights in the Idle No More age. I was incredibly moved by the final section ("Giiwekwaadizid"), as well as the inclusion of traditional language. Wab has the power to connect with an audience, which may bring him successfully to the political stage in the future. 

Favourite line: "Reconciliation is realized when two people come together and understand that what they share unites them and that what is different about them needs to be respected."

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The Canadaland Guide to Canada
Written by Jesse Brown

This book juxtaposes fact with irreverence becoming a completely hilarious "exposé" on what the great white north is really about. Author Jesse Brown is a journalist that runs the Canadaland website and podcast, and was formerly most well-known for his investigative work on breaking the Jian Ghomeshi case. In "The Canadaland Guide to Canada", he explores our history, culture, politics and everything in between prodding the reader to contemplate and question our reputation of being a polite, tolerant nation (for example, Canada's Indian Act was the inspiration for South Africa's apartheid policy). My current residence was suspiciously (perhaps thankfully) omitted from mention but my hometown of Winnipeg had several shout-outs. Highly recommended. 

Favourite line: "...there is not one person in Manitoba you want to see naked."

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Posh Rice
Written by Emily Kydd

Rice has become one of the main staples of my diet. I love its nutritional value, ease of cooking and remarkable versatility. This book showcases over 70 easy-to-follow, illustrated recipes to switch the simple grain up from side dishes to mains to desserts and treats. I've already explored a number of them – all tasty – including this one pot jambalaya I made (pictured below). Excellent reference for someone just starting out (like moi) or for those looking to diversify usage of ingredients already found in the kitchen. 

One pot jambalaya, a delicious creole hotchpotch of rice, chicken breast, chorizo sausage, onion, green onion, celery, red pepper, green pepper, garlic, thyme and cajun spice. 

Recommended: Instagram Artists

Growing up, there weren't a lot of avenues to express myself as a budding artist. The internet was in its infancy and social media was a good decade away. Rather, my "audience" consisted of those who sat next to me in class and teachers who took notice of the ever more elaborate doodles that accompanied my homework assignments. This is all it took at the time though; those same individuals were the ones to guide me into a profession that would best allow my talent to flourish. 

Today, Instagram is the perfect tool to build that base to exposure. I often marvel at the work I encounter on it. In between food porn, memes and pictures of adorable puppies, my Instagram feed is also full of doodle art by upcoming female illustrators. They are inspiring in their honesty. vulnerability and skill to narrate visually what it's like to be a single, modern female during an era where we STILL have to fight for equality (and also fend off fuckboys). I admire their hustle in using social platforms to build a following and a business. I feel like the next Lynda Barry is just getting started here. 

I recommend the following:

@marcella.draws:

@natdelvillar:

@joannathangiah:

@adrianamanhattan:

@vicscribs:

@randomactsofbrie:

A Tourist in Your Own Life

Humans of New York started out as a blog dedicated to showing street portraits of the city's diverse inhabitants. It has since expanded globally and also shares stories as well. Some are humorous. Some are heart-warming. My favourite, though, are the poignant, revealing confessions that normally remain buried in our hearts and hold weight on our souls. The confessions that delve deep into what it actually means to be human. 

The following was posted on the blog this week. As I read it, I felt pause and then an overwhelming sense of empathy. I feel like I could have written it myself:

Book Recommendations

The Vanished: The Evaporated People of Japan in Stories and Photographs
Written by Léna Mauger and Stéphane Remael

Over the past couple years, I've fantasized about disappearing. I'm not sure if this is a part of life that everyone goes through at some point, a rejection of adult responsibilities and societal obligations that increasingly seem outdated and moot. Perhaps it's just daydream nation needing a distraction from the everyday monotony or, now, everyday chaos. I do think about it a lot though. To the point where I'm aware of how far my meagre savings will go towards the alternate existence I have mapped out in my head should I ever choose it.

There are, of course, people that willingly walk away from their lives. It is actually a big phenomena in Japan where nearly one hundred thousand people vanish without a trace each year. I recently read the book "The Vanished: The "Evaporated People of Japan in Stories in Photographs" which tells some of these stories (anonymously for the most part, of course). It was a fascinating read that described an insane corporate culture where business has an iron grip on employees. A culture where deviation from the norm can bring about the deepest shame. 

Some of the "romance" of vanishing into thin air was washed away after reading this. But it also gave me more insight into why I might be harbouring the desire in the first place. 

Favourite line: "Often, that's all they're waiting for, a word, a gesture."

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All The Sweet Things: Baked Goods and Stories from the Kitchen of Sweetsugarbean
Written by Renée Kohlman

I have never been a cook. Surely never a baker. But when a friend noticed how much I was spending on dining out (and all the unhealthy processed foods I was eating when at home), he started teaching me how to cook. A few lessons later and I discovered that I could make meals as good, if not better, than what I was getting at my favourite restaurants. Cooking has become my new passion. With my art & design background, I not only want to make things taste good but look amazing too (as none of my taste-testers have fallen ill, I'd say that I am successful thus far). 

Canadian-based blogger Sweetsugarbean recently released a very beautiful, easy to follow cookbook that focuses on "All the Sweet Things". I have tried a few recipes so far – including a very easy, very tasty raspberry clafoutis – and am highly recommending it. My summer goal is to make a new dish each week. Follow me on Instagram to see the results. 

Book Recommendations

Bad Girls Throughout History
Written by Ann Shen

Between recent world events and my own personal history, I have been in need of female inspiration. This book details, through brief but impactful biographies and whimsical illustration, the lives of one hundred women who dreamed and dared to go beyond what was expected of them to change the world. From warriors (Ching Shih) to queens (Elizabeth I), actresses (Dorothy Dandridge) to adventurers (Amelia Earhart), "Bad Girls Throughout History" documents a different side of human existence that is all too often cast aside in favour of the male gaze. My new goal in life is to make the second edition.  

Favourite line: I appreciated the introduction to journalist Nellie Bly and Disney artist Mary Blair. 

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The Girl With the Lower Back Tattoo
Written by Amy Schumer

I bought this book for my best friend who is obsessed with Amy Schumer. She read it in two days and then passed it back to me with an enthusiastic review. I also devoured and absolutely loved it. In this collection of essays (billed as a "non-memoir"), Amy shares moments that shaped her life in a frank, confessional style of writing that is entertaining, insightful and empowering. I was surprised to read that the seemingly brash comedian is a workaholic introvert at heart who values solitude. We'd probably be friends.

Favourite line: "So much has changed about me since I was that confident, happy girl in high school. In the years since then, I've experienced a lot of desperation and self-doubt, but in a way, I've come full circle. I know my worth."

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Alexander McQueen: Evolution
Written by Katherine Gleason

For Christmas, my best friend got me this beautiful coffee table book on the life and work of one of the greatest designers of the past century, Alexander McQueen. It includes a condensed biography on the man, myth and legend and focuses more on his output and the theatre of his collections. The themes of life, death and sex are a common thread throughout his complex, visually stimulating art. 

Favourite line: my favourite fashion show of all time is 2004's "Deliverance".

My favourite things of the year:

Once again, it's the season for year-end lists. And as I'm too busy/not motivated enough to write something more original (even copying this intro from last year's post), I will simply detail my favourite things of the year. Enjoy. 

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HEALTHY FOOD: I am learning how to cook and have so far perfected a handful of dishes, one of which is a chicken, roasted pepper, rice medley mixed with various cajun spices. It's not original (and perhaps pretty basic for those with more culinary ability) but it is delicious and I'm proud of myself for developing a new skill. 

RUNNER UP: Kale smoothies.

NOT-SO-HEALTHY FOOD: Oh Doughnuts in Winnipeg. 
This is the most decadent donut I have ever had in my life. I'm still hoping to visit on a day when lemon meringue, pictured above, is being served (but will happily order and eat whatever is on offer). 

RUNNER UP: Dark chocolate with lavender. 

MINDLESS PASTIME: Bowling

RUNNER UP: Ruckers

BOOK: When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi
This is a beautiful, heart-wrenching first-hand account of the thoughts and feelings one experiences after being diagnosed with terminal cancer. The final paragraph is everything I needed to hear from my father but which he wasn't granted opportunity to say. This book touched my heart. 

RUNNER UP: Atlas Obscura by Joshua Foer, Dylan Thuras and Ella Morton
I haven't excitedly rushed home to read a book before, but for this one I do. 'Atlas Obscura' is a completely engrossing travel book that details the globe's more curious locales, giving me a million more reasons to hold a current passport. This book ignited my mind. 

INSPIRATION: Alexander McQueen
Of late, I've been increasingly mesmerized by highly detailed, intricate works of art that evoke mood. Alexander McQueen was a master of this in the medium of fashion and, as his shows would attest, theatre. Both his myth and output are inspiring me to think bigger and try harder with the aim of achieving but a fraction of his mastery. 

RUNNER UP: Gustave Doré

NEWS STORY: Bear Clan
I really struggled to find a positive news story from 2016. With each passing week, it seemed the world entered an increasingly fragile, chaotic state. A group of volunteers in Winnipeg has been doing exceptional things though and deserve to be recognized. The Bear Clan was initially formed to protect young women and children in my hometown's most vulnerable neighborhoods. They now routinely help the community in other areas, including missing persons cases from all walks of life. I have the utmost respect for them. They are good people doing good things.  

RUNNER UP: 2016 was a terrible year. I cannot think of a truly feel-good story. 

EMOJI: 😊

RUNNER UP: 🌛

ALBUM: Lemonade by Beyoncé.
Beyoncé is an artist and performer without equal and this album is a cultural masterpiece. I would be lying if I said I didn't belt out 'Don't Hurt Yourself', co-written with another favourite Jack White, every day in the shower. Flawless all around. 

RUNNER UP: 'Somebody Else' by The 1975 resurrects Depeche Mode in the best way possible. 

FAVOURITE MOMENT: Riding a camel with my best friend in Dubai. 

RUNNER UP: My mom asking me who "Becky with the good hair" is. 
See, Beyoncé transcends generations. 

Book Recommendations

In-Between Days
Written by Teva Harrison

In-Between days is billed as a memoir about living with cancer but it is more than that. Author Teva Harrison, diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer at the age of 37, combines prose with illustration to convey the frank realities and inner most thoughts of those living with the disease. 

Favourite line: "And we have to listen to the women who went through it before us. I know that somewhere – if I could have just found her – there was a woman who could have told me that I was not alone. And that would have changed everything."

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The Creation of Anne Boleyn
Written by Susan Bordo

She is one of history's most polarizing figures described as everything from whore to martyr. These simplistic assessments of character fail to define the influence she had during her life though, not only on King Henry VIII but on the religious framework of an entire nation. Proof that her being was more than just mere words could contain. This book details Anne's history (as far as we know it, as most was erased by Henry after her execution) and also discusses the modern impact she is having on young women who are quick to recognize that she was a complex 21st century queen trapped in medieval times. 

Favourite line: "She's a young women whose temperament, for all her flirtatiousness, was more unnervingly "masculine" than was usual for her time: confident, excited by her own potential to effect action in the world, capable of fierce resentments, daring ambitions, bold actions – and unwilling to be anyone's plaything or political tool. She was the mother of Elizabeth, not an understudy of Queen Victoria."

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Champagne Supernovas
Written by Maureen Callahan

Alexander McQueen has always fascinated me. His creative genius, aura and history (often self-fabricated) have created a myth that became bigger than the fashion industry itself; his work transcending commerce and veering closer to art, the legacy every designer wants no matter the discipline. This book shines a light behind the glamorous facade of the industry, depicting all the stress, drugs and ego that fuel it. The rise and fall (and rise again) of Kate Moss and Marc Jacobs are also documented in a thoroughly engaging read. 

Favourite line: "I don't think she sought out darkness. I think it just happened along the way."