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Joy in Wintertime

January 24, 2025 68 Comments

 

We try to embrace the cadence of the natural rhythms and look for joy in the simple, restorative moments that each season brings. Winter, often viewed as harsh and uncomfortable, is an invitation to slow down, cozy up, and connect with ourselves and importantly, with others.

 

Tiny moments of gratitude can carry a lot of weight and might be found in the flame of a candle, the quiet air of a snowy walk, or a simple warm bowl of oatmeal. 

 

Instead of pushing through the season as if it’s something to endure, what if we took a cue from nature and slowed down? 

 

We hope you're finding moments of joy in the darker days and we’d like to share a book that’s been around a long time that might be a good read right now.


"Pathways to Bliss" by Joseph Campbell explores how mythology and the concept of following one’s bliss can help us find meaning and purpose, especially in times of uncertainty and chaos by connecting with mythic patterns of resilience and renewal. 


During times when feelings of uncertainty and division are ramping up, collective action feels vital. This kind of book can empower people to rise above fear driven narratives and create a sense of hope and connection. It’s nice to read something that reminds us how to align our personal purpose with larger societal needs.


What are the reads you've loved lately?



68 Responses

Clara
Clara

January 28, 2025

God of the Woods was a wonderful winter read and inspired me to go winter camping for the first time ever. I reread Little Deaths by Ellen Datlow snuggled up with my pup in the back of my car under many blankets deep in the woods and it was perfection.

Rob
Rob

January 27, 2025

I’m always reading cookbooks. Winter calls for cozy food and books that look forward to spring and summer; right now I’m enjoying “Towpath: Recipes and Stories” by Laura Jackson and Lori De Mori and “On Vegetables” by Jeremy Fox.

Mary
Mary

January 27, 2025

Just read Tender to the Bone by Ruth Reichl. Wonderful story full of joy and heartache and of course, sprinkled with recipes – perfect for winter chill.

Samantha Geiger
Samantha Geiger

January 27, 2025

The Psalm for The Wild Built & Prayer For the Crown Shy by Becky Chambers. It’s a duology that I’m rereading now when I’m wanting to pay a little more attention in my life and as they say in the books to “find the strength to do both.” To enjoy comfort as well as activity.
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Everyday Oil replied:
Will check this out!

Tina
Tina

January 27, 2025

What a wonderful list of books to read! And what a generous gift you gave away!! My winter read suggestion is Winter Solstice by Rosamunde Pilcher. It is set in Scotland mostly. A lovely heart warming story.

Katie
Katie

January 27, 2025

Wow love all these recs! In the winter I really like The Winter Souls series. Super cozy and wholesome fantasy winter read. I also like rereading Little Women in the winter for nostalgic comfort vibes.

Sonia May
Sonia May

January 27, 2025

I’m loving Derek Jarman’s Modern Nature which is a like a love letter to the beauty and challenge of each month/season and a testament to his resilience and determination both in life and in his gardening.

Julie Martin
Julie Martin

January 27, 2025

The Wild Edge of Sorrow by Francis Weller is deeply beautiful. I lost my father a year ago and it has comforted me at a time when beauty and grief were hard to reconcile.
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Everyday Oil replied:
💛

Jennifer
Jennifer

January 27, 2025

I just finished Winter Solstice by Rosamunde Pilcher, and it was a delightful and cozy read for this season. Louise Penny’s Armand Gamache novels are also perfect for winter.

Brooke L.
Brooke L.

January 27, 2025

I am re-reading a winter book by tove jansson, the creator of the moomin children’s stories and who began writing adult fiction later in life. Brilliant collection of short stories— you feel you are there alongside her.

Isabel Dominguez
Isabel Dominguez

January 27, 2025

I am currently reading Karl Ove Knausgaard “My Struggle”
I love the way in which he describes absolutely everything to the tiniest of details. I can feel the Norwegian winter in his words, I can smell the cold air, but also the longing in the author. It is a book that asks the reader to slow down and to notice the most ordinary things. It feels like a meditation.

Slava
Slava

January 27, 2025

I love Joseph Campbell and following one’s bliss! Always enjoy your thoughtful e-mails. I just finished “A Woman’s Worth” by Marianne Williamson – such a beautiful reminder of honoring the Goddess in all and nurturing the world with love. I am also reading “Three Magic Words” by U.S. Andersen, a beautiful reminder of who we are and our inner power. Las, but not least, “Fragrance After Rain” by my favorite Jaiya John – mystic whispers for tender hearts/pure soul food. Books are bliss, and winter is such a lovely season to enjoy them fully :-)

Hope
Hope

January 27, 2025

I am reading Tolstoy’s War and Peace and Gathering Moss by Robin Wall Kimmerer.

Sarah
Sarah

January 27, 2025

Just finished The Witch’s Heart by Genevieve Gornichec — so good!

Anne
Anne

January 27, 2025

I’m listening to Stanley Tuccis “What I ate in one year” and just started his other book “Taste: My life in food”.Perfect escape reading, especially if you like food and travel. His calm, classy demeanor is such a great antidote to the current political chaos.

Netta Mae Walsh
Netta Mae Walsh

January 27, 2025

The ministry for the future by Kim Stanley Robinson
Heavy but so important and timely offering a glimmer of hope!

Jolene
Jolene

January 27, 2025

I am currently reading Slyvia Plath’s Unabridged Journals and I recommend them. It’s best served with a strong cup of tea and a cuddly cat in your lap. I’d also like to recommend any of Mary Oliver’s poetry books. They’re gorgeous and for the darker months, I think allow for even deeper introspection than usual.

Susanna
Susanna

January 24, 2025

isappearing Earth by Julia Phillips, a beautifully written mystery/suspense book that takes place at the northeastern most edge of Russia. Totally absorbing and deeply wintry.

Jessica
Jessica

January 27, 2025

I just finished North Woods by Daniel Mason and cannot recommend it enough! I’m also working through some nature writing—A Natural History Of Selbourne, A Philsophy of Walking— so I can live outside vicariously:)
———
Everyday Oil replied:
A favorite :)

natalie Dávila
natalie Dávila

January 24, 2025

wow so many amazing suggestions in here! bookmarking for future reference. I just finished all the pretty horses by cormac mccarthy and loved it a ton. going to go horse girl mode

Janet
Janet

January 24, 2025

Devotions by Mary Oliver. For all seasons, she captures place, time, and beauty.
I just finished reading Living Faith by Jimmy Carter and plan to read more of his books. He was truly a national treasure.
———
Everyday Oil replied:
So true!

Tiffany
Tiffany

January 24, 2025

The Snow Child by Eowyn Ivey is a good read and a great book for the winter months.

Rachel
Rachel

January 24, 2025

Rereading M Train by Patti Smith
I love her words and find them very grounding.

Amber
Amber

January 24, 2025

I’m reading Wanderlust – by Rebecca Solnit – on the joys of long walks

nadia
nadia

January 24, 2025

These recommendations are great! So happy people are staying positive out there! I’m rereading David Lynch’s Room To Dream because to me slowing down in the winter means permission to day-dream!
———
Everyday Oil replied:
💛

Grace Wing-Yuan Toy
Grace Wing-Yuan Toy

January 24, 2025

I just read Lunar New Year Love Story by: Gene Luen Yang (Author), LeUyen Pham (Illustrator). Highly recommended!

Isa
Isa

January 27, 2025

Hi EO! Love you guys, especially in winter. My Mainstay is keeping me calm and hydrated in this super cold NY winter. Leaning into the winter cosiness with Rainbow Rowell’s Slow Dance!
———
Everyday Oil replied:
💛

Yuko
Yuko

January 24, 2025

I like to read Marie Kondo’s Magic of Tidying Up- just a good reminder in a time of renewal- January

Sharon Leong
Sharon Leong

January 24, 2025

I also second (or third!) THE ALCHEMIST! Re-read it to inspire me anew!

Also loved reading gorgeous DICTIONARY OF OBSCURE SORROWS by John Koenig

Debra Schneider
Debra Schneider

January 24, 2025

Long, involved complex tales, like Cold Mountain, Any Human Heart, The Covenant of Water

Sierra
Sierra

January 24, 2025

I recently finished Beautyland by Marie Helene-Bertino. I felt so seen and was bowled over by the beauty of the story. Now finishing up Orbital and plan to pick up The Sun Walks Down next. I just love reading so so much, and winter reading has that melancholy feeling that really speaks to me. So excited to read everyone’s recommendations!

Lisa
Lisa

January 24, 2025

Wintering by Katherine May also! I am trying to lean into winter now more than ever and enjoy the rest and slow pace.

Marie
Marie

January 24, 2025

Colored Television By Danzy Senna This book not only provides good insight into multiracial identities, it also shares the realities of TV production, conveyed in an amusing, entertaining and thought provoking read (no easy task!).

JDLS
JDLS

January 24, 2025

I read either of the Hygge books by Miek Wiking when I want to cost up. Also, we have started burning candles during our evening family meal (as per his suggestion in the first book) and it really helps make our time together more special.

Jen
Jen

January 24, 2025

I only read comedies in January! Collections of funny essays. Right now R.Eric Thomas “Here for It” to get me laughing through my winter blues.

Marissa Venturi
Marissa Venturi

January 24, 2025

Small things like these, by Claire Keegan! I love the audio book of this novella, but the book itself is a real winter treasure that is so beautifully written. Both provocative and nourishing.

Kristen
Kristen

January 24, 2025

101 Essays That Will Change The Way You Think by Brianna Wiest!! Beautiful messages broken down into smaller chapters, lovely!

Dee
Dee

January 24, 2025

The God of the Woods by Liz Moore was a spectacular read this winter
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Everyday Oil replied:
Agree, loved this one!

Ellie Wells
Ellie Wells

January 24, 2025

The Book of Difficult Fruit by Kate Lebo— the writing is so great, as a baker there’s great joy in thinking about strange and challenging beautiful bounty to come in the stark and slow season
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Everyday Oil replied:
Sounds perfect

Susannah Felts
Susannah Felts

January 24, 2025

I love winter for its cozy-up-under-a-blanket time, and candlelight—- lots and lots of candles, please! Tatine candles are a lovely splurge. Pair with a Claire Keegan novella.

Jenna
Jenna

January 24, 2025

Recently finished the Odyssey! A joyous time reclaiming my attention and submersing myself in mythology.
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Everyday Oil replied:
Impressive :)

Katie
Katie

January 24, 2025

Just gifted this to a friend and so I’m rereading The Summer Book by Tove Jansson.

Cary
Cary

January 24, 2025

The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
———
Everyday Oil replied:
A must read!

Amy
Amy

January 24, 2025

Tiny Beautiful Things by Cheryl Strayed. Best book to help with the blues.

Sarah
Sarah

January 24, 2025

I’ve always loved Jospeh Campbell’s work…and love the idea of gifting this to my dad, whose bday is coming up (Aquarius vibes)!

Cary Barbane
Cary Barbane

January 24, 2025

The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho!

Rosetta
Rosetta

January 24, 2025

Novels by Haruki Murakami are salve in the slow Winter.
A little escape, simplicity, stillness, imagination <3

Kelley
Kelley

January 24, 2025

I’m reading Orbital and am enjoying the slow meditation on earth during this cold gray winter.

Rebecca
Rebecca

January 24, 2025

I’m rereading Elizabeth Gilbert’s Big Magic, which is a pattern I probably need to do yearly!

Joshua
Joshua

January 27, 2025

The Audacity of Hope, by Barack Obama. I never read it when it was first published, but right now, in this particular moment in our history, might just be the perfect time.
———
Everyday Oil replied:
💛

Cheney
Cheney

January 24, 2025

How to winter by Kari Leibowitz is a great choice

Katie
Katie

January 24, 2025

Just finished Martyr! by Kaveh Akbar and it was gorgeous!

Hilary
Hilary

January 24, 2025

The Book of Delights by Ross Gay — grounding & beautiful essays to revisit every year.

Kelly
Kelly

January 24, 2025

I’m enjoying “my grandmother asked me to tell you she’s sorry” by Fredrick Backman. It’s for my book. But go to comfort reading includes Sherlock Holmes stories. I love those!

Mina
Mina

January 24, 2025

Forest of Noise by Mosab Abu Toha

Amber Pittenger
Amber Pittenger

January 24, 2025

The Light Eaters by Zoë Schlanger. It’s about the intrinsic wisdom of plants, and helps me remember that the green will return, soon ♥️

Cheney M
Cheney M

January 24, 2025

This sounds beautiful- love the winter season for rest and catching up on some reading

Sherry
Sherry

January 24, 2025

My favorite read this winter has been Hildegard of Bingen’s Medicine & Fast Facts for the School Nurse!

Meghan B
Meghan B

January 24, 2025

I am currently reading Beyond Anxiety by Martha Beck and really enjoying it! I have also really enjoyed Even After Everything by Stephanie Duncan Smith during this season.

Allison Fitzpatrick
Allison Fitzpatrick

January 24, 2025

The Wide Wide Sea by Hampton Sides. This book is so well-written, a journey along with Captain Cook and crew on what would be Cook’s final voyage. I’m fascinated by the shaping of history in this part of the world, and though now typically seen in negative context I appreciate the authors straight-forward approach with Cook. Not celebrated, not evil- a judge for yourself along the way type take. Bonus: This book was one of Obama’s top books from last summer. Great read with a top class seal of approval!

Brian
Brian

January 24, 2025

The book “Wintering” is very timely for the season and also post climate trauma :)

Deanne
Deanne

January 24, 2025

Reading romance novels in the winter (and all seasons, really) is so fun! I recent excellent read is called “Summer Fridays,” and I highly recommend it! :)

Liza Berdnik
Liza Berdnik

January 24, 2025

The McCartney Legacy volume 2 1974-1980. What an astonishing work ethic! A great book to read while sitting sipping tea. Paul does all the work.

Katrina posner
Katrina posner

January 24, 2025

Wintering; the power of rest and retreat in difficult times. Katherine May

Linda Moore
Linda Moore

January 24, 2025

Good Women by Halle Hill. Stories of Blaxk women in Appalachia. Excellent!

Emma Thier
Emma Thier

January 24, 2025

I just read big magic to spark some creativity

Shannon
Shannon

January 24, 2025

‘I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings’ by Maya Angelou…
One of my old favorites and so beautiful!

Lexie
Lexie

January 24, 2025

Wintering by Katherine May! It’s the best manual for surviving winter.
———
Everyday Oil replied:
Oh! This looks like THE perfect winter read :)

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