Stories That Carry Us Away

How the right book at the right moment becomes a journey to somewhere beautiful

Hey friend!

What’s your favorite reading memory? When were you completely captivated by a story and the world around you dissolved, leaving you completely absorbed in that story?

For me, a memory unfurls on a warm and sunny July afternoon at Jamaica Pond in Boston, when my mother had a rare day off.

Growing up, my mum worked the second shift, doubles, and overtime to keep us afloat. Though weekends were reserved for cleaning the house and chores, this particular day in July, my mother had a surprise. She moved through our tiny apartment, gathering a faded bedspread, snacks, and bottles of a Haitian grapefruit juice called jus chadèque (delicious, by the way!).

We piled into her beige Toyota Camry, its windows rolled down to let the summer air rush through the car. The car carried us towards the Emerald Necklace, a verdant chain of parks designed by Olmsted, the same mastermind behind Central Park.

When we arrived at Jamaica Pond, my mom let us pick a spot under a willow tree whose branches swept across the grassy knoll with the wind. We shook out the bedspread, then watched it float gently on our chosen spot.

Once we settled in our little paradise, I pulled out my required reading for summer, To Kill a Mockingbird.

Sitting there with the wind blowing off Jamaica Pond and birds singing a symphony overhead, I felt at peace. The combination of snacks and the lingering sweet taste of jus chadèque created a perfect moment.

That afternoon, I entered a portal to Harper Lee’s Alabama. I didn’t emerge until my mother rubbed my arm, calling me back to Boston.

This memory reminds me why I’m so passionate about sharing great reads. On episode 146, I share four books I’ve been cherishing on the podcast. Each will take you on a journey through the complexity of diaspora experiences. Each is a passport to somewhere beautiful: the Caribbean, Nigeria, and England. Take a listen here.

Your Reading Sanctuary

I’m curious, what about the reading memory that lives in your heart? Was it nestled under a tree like mine? Curled in a cozy corner of your childhood bedroom? On a beach somewhere with sand between the pages?

Here’s a challenge for you: This week, recreate elements of your favorite reading environment. Light a candle, make a special snack, or find that perfect spot. Then settle in with a book that’s been calling your name.

Reading is never just about the books in our hands. It’s about the memories we weave around the worlds and the sanctuary each book provides us.

I’d love to know what books you’re reading! Drop me a line.

Stay Creative,

Martine x