How to Be Alone by Tanya Davis. Publisher: Harper (October 22, 2013). Poetry. Hardcover. 128 pages. ISBN 9780062280848.

Canadian singer/songwriter and poet Tanya Davis writes: “Society is afraid of alone though- like lonely hearts are wasting away in basements, like people must have problems if after a while no one’s dating them” in this advice poem. That’s an unfortunate truth. I’ve never had problems or issues in doing anything alone. Societal expectations compel people to believe they MUST always do things in groups. Sometimes solitude can be just the thing. I just went out to a show Saturday—Grace & Tony and Kingsley Flood. I see a film a week in the theater. I prefer it that way. I go to book readings. I never understand when someone says “I want to see X film but I have no one to go with.” I say just go! This could make a cute gift book though for those in fear of being by themselves.

–review by Amy Steele

FTC Disclosure: I received this book for review from Harper Collins.

IT’S NEVER TOO LATE by Dallas Clayton. Publisher: Amy Einhorn Books (November 7, 2013). Hardcover. ISBN 978-0-399-16308-1.

“And everyone’s sink/ gets all full of dishes, and everyone’s heart/ gets all full of wishes./ And everyone’s mind/ gets all full of mess,/ and we all read the signs,/ and we all try our best.”

Children’s author and illustrator Dallas Clayton decided to published this “children’s book for adults.” It’s about making the most of time, striving for everything you dream about and want. It’s rather whimsical and fun. Makes a delightful little gift.

–review by Amy Steele

FTC Disclosure: I received this book for review from Putnam.