HOMECOMINGS

Patterson’s book combines spiritual thought with self-help practices.

This guide’s three sections refer to aspects of a long journey: “Route Mapping,” “Footprints,” and “Rest and Return.” Within these segments are 52 soliloquies starting with the letter S (an idea inspired by Patterson’s free-writing practice). Each soliloquy is prefaced with an apt quotation before moving onto its subject and ends with “Songlines” suggesting practices for readers to do themselves. In the category of “Soul,” for example, readers are advised to find labyrinths (“walking, writing, or tracing meditations”) to walk through, and, before entering them, to “set the intention of befriending your soul.” For “Soften,” she suggests mentally scanning one’s body to notice specific places where tension resides. Patterson also offers journal prompts for each topic; “Seasons” suggests that readers write about their relationship with nature, and “Savour” instructs one to sketch a drawing of a cupboard filled with favorite things. The author ranges widely for inspiration. One section touches on lovely Zulu greetings, the Buddhist story of Indra’s net, and the poet John Donne’s work to illustrate the theme of interconnection. Quotes by figures such as 13th-century poet Rumi, acclaimed actor Lupita Nyong’o, architect Frank Lloyd Wright, and martial artist and actor Bruce Lee are found throughout. Patterson’s book is also attractively laid out, with chapter titles in flowy script and pictures of vintage postage stamps. Though carefully planned, the text may be effectively enjoyed by flipping through pages randomly or by reading the chapters in order. Some insights, such as that life is like sewing a patchwork quilt, or repairs of broken pottery make it stronger and more beautiful are familiar but still radiate a welcome sense of comfort and ease. Readers can happily amble through her book “occasionally pausing to admire the sights.”

A gentle and warmhearted life manual.