Snippets of SnapDragon

A Short Critique of A Book That Takes Its Time: An Unhurried Adventure in Creative Mindfulness by Irene Smit & Astrid van der Hulst

All right, lovelies. Here we go!

If you haven’t noticed by now, I’m a sucker for all things cute, cartoony, and whimsical. I’m a strange combination of grandma and kindergartner, stuck in an almost-32-year-old body. I’m surprised I’m not dressed in overalls and polka dots everyday. But that’s probably coming, so stay tuned.

Anyway, this book called out to me–no, it hollered at me– as I scanned the shelves of my local Barnes & Noble. Its bright cover and soothing title invited me to take my time. Yes, friend. Taking my time in this busy-ass world? You don’t have to ask me twice.

Since I promised to keep these book reviews brief, I’ll put it this way:

Treat yourself to this delightfully interactive journey.

It’s filled with short, well-written articles on mindfulness, as well as a treasure-trove of adorable cut-outs, stickers, notebooks, and printouts. Gently tugging on the perforated edges throughout this book was exceptionally satisfying, and I find myself “saving” my stickers just like I did in the fourth grade. So. damn. cute.

If I had to pick a favorite passage, it’s from an article entitled “Celebrate the Wait” by Lissette Thooft:

Recently my friend Mickey decided to wait a week before buying a book. “I passed by the bookstore a few times, longing for that book,” Mickey said. “That gave me another seven days of enjoyment. It was so much more fun than getting it right away” (Thooft).

This is just a small sample of the nuggets of wisdom found throughout.

So Dear Reader? In this society that glorifies burnout and multi-tasking, I urge you to pour yourself a hot mug of tea, turn off your iPhone, and enjoy the simplicity of these pages.

You deserve it.