Taking a passion and turning it into a career is something I never would have thought of as possible. I started the Reading With Robin radio show on WHJJ, in Providence, Rhode Island, 20 years ago, after an addiction to talk radio proved to be inspirational.
While there was no blueprint for doing a show that highlighted the joy of reading and interviews with authors, the idea has certainly blossomed. When I do the math, it’s likely I’ve read thousands of books over the years. Because of this background, I’m often the person others turn to for ideas on what to read or what books to give as presents.
The books I’m sharing here are timeless, and I’ve also had the pleasure of interviewing their authors. I hope you find one or more in this mix to gift to your favorite women this holiday season — or to buy for yourself!
Though I can rarely say “No, thank you” to a new cookbook, there is a distinction between the ones I like to collect and the ones I actually use. I was drawn to Simply Julia, by New York Times–best-selling author Julia Turshen, in part by the subtitle, which hits most busy chefs’ preferences and needs: 110 Easy Recipes for Healthy Comfort Food.
Although relatively new, my copy is dog-eared and stained, exactly how a beloved cookbook should be. It has become my go-to for holidays and for daily dishes alike. Two of my favorites in this gorgeous hardback, complete with seductive food photos, are Palm Springs Pearl Couscous and Citrus Salad, made with juicy Cara Cara oranges.
Turshen’s pages are filled with other innovative recipes such as ones for Ricotta and Potato Chip Fish Cakes with Peas; Kale and Mushroom Pot Pie; and a variety of yummy chicken entrées.
And all of her homemade salad dressings are special and tasty, including her Creamy Miso and Cashew Dressing.
I was drawn to another New York Times–best-selling author’s book, Devotion, as it’s told in writer Dani Shapiro’s trademark voice, which is funny, grounded and real. She grew up in a deeply religious home, and when her then-8-year-old son began asking questions such as “What happens when we die?” and “What do we believe about God?” it got Shapiro thinking about all of the really big questions — the ones that keep us up at night.
She found herself anxious and often on the verge of tears without knowing why. These feelings and angst prompted her to be open to the possibility that answers might be within her reach if she could quiet that voice inside her head. This quest would ultimately illuminate the joy and purpose in her life.
At the Kripalu Center for Yoga & Health in Massachusetts, Shapiro was inspired by Buddhist teacher Sylvia Boorstein, with whom she continues to have a close relationship. This book will give you a lot to think about, and it just might also inspire you to explore some of the meditative practices that continue to enhance Shapiro’s life.