Little pieces of hope Happy-making things in a difficult world

Inspirational snippets inspired by the need for unity and optimism in troubled times. On March 11, 2020, the day the World Health Organization declared a global pandemic, Doubleday deputy publisher Doughty was on a train home from work when he began crafting a series of lists on Instagram to engage and inspire others to "remember and explore the things that bring you happiness." Accessorizing these unique and fun assortments are essays on practical ways to feel more connected, appreciations of the blissful interconnectedness of small-town life, and ideas about how to cultivate "a little piece of hope" every day. The lists include often quirky nods to a variety of quotidian things, including cake, "a small piece of chocolate that leaves you wanting more," specific scenes in movies and books, the intricate foam design in a latte, and the unique serenity of late-night quiet. In other sections, Doughty offers more substantial appreciations of teachers, seasons, holidays, the exhilarating art of personal or professional risk-taking, and music "mixtape" playlists focusing on a specific mood, genre, or period preference. Creatively rich with typeface variations and Portillo's casual, bright artwork, Doughty's wise words of wisdom aim to lessen the negative effects of the pandemic. This is a breezy, versatile book to be enjoyed during a peaceful moment of reflection or read aloud at gatherings with friends and family. Laden with optimism and inspiration, Doughty's lists are rhythmic, interconnected, fun, and effervescently positive. Readers plodding through the arduous, isolating, seemingly endless days of pandemic regulations will particularly appreciate the author's humor and fanciful sense of nostalgia and stress-busting playfulness. Best enjoyed a few segments at a time, the text encourages readers to pause, breathe, and appreciate the simple things, both past and present, which often become overshadowed by schedules, work and family demands, and myriad interpersonal challenges. A needed message of hope, joy, and love, imparted through the simplicity of lists. Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.