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.

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.

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)