The kind of self-help book that will actually make a difference.
In a world of Instagram influencers bombarding our feeds with expensive self-care products, looking after yourself can feel impossible (caviar cream and vampire facials, anyone?). At the same time, we’re constantly confronted with infinite global problems that plunge humanity further into a hole of despair.
In her latest release, podcaster and best-selling author of Destination Simple and Slow, Brooke McAlary proposes a much-needed solution. Care: The Radical Art of Taking Time is an honest, informative, and gentle guide to caring for yourself and the world through small acts that don’t cost too much time, money, or happiness.
The concept of caring is a huge one, so McAlary unpacks it into nine core ideas that make the message much easier to wrap your head around: Connection, Kindness, Awe, Nature, Making, Movement, Play, Rest, and Healing. Through these lenses, the book explores various kinds of personal self-care acts that are accessible to everyone, no matter how much time or money you might have.
The advice within the text is well-researched and articulated in a way that makes a wealth of information easy to digest. The
Each chapter closes with three lists of personal care ideas for every kind of reader, whether they’ve got half a minute, half an hour, or half a day to spare. For example, to practice care in the realm of kindness, you can make a cup of tea for someone (half a minute), call your grandparents (half an hour), or volunteer at your local soup kitchen (half a day). These are just three ideas in an ocean that the author offers, all the while maintaining that not every suggestion will work for everyone. And that’s okay.
Interwoven between the pages of text are simple yet uplifting illustrations, profound words of poetry, and standout quotes plucked from the chapters, such as: “Let’s normalise the idea of stepping back. Learn to recognise it as another facet of care. One that will allow us to recharge, heal, rethink and reset our expectations.” (Pg 248).
Throughout, McAlary maintains a kind and non-judgmental voice that still manages to be enlightening and trustworthy, while avoiding preachiness. This is perhaps the book’s greatest strength, though there are many to choose from. Along with boasting a logical layout and valuable information within, the book is also aesthetically gorgeous, complete with
Care is a must-read for anyone looking for a realistic and helpful approach to caring for themselves, their community, and the planet. And in a post-pandemic world, who isn’t?
Reviewed by Vanessa Elle
Instagram: @vanessaellewrites
Distributed by: Allen & Unwin
Released: June 2021
RRP: $32.99
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