The launch of my new book, Move Slow & Make Things, is just over two weeks away! I received my author’s copies last week. Six heavy mystery boxes arrived on the small stoop by our kitchen door, leaving me stumped until I saw they were from my publisher. I had already received an advance copy, but seeing stacks of my new book was thrilling. After all of the thinking, writing, editing, photographing, and designing, it’s about to be released into the world. I’m so proud of this book. If you haven’t already, you can preorder the book HERE.
In the weeks leading up to my own book launch, I’ve been thinking about books and how the publishing world has evolved over the last 10-15 years. Libraries and the sharing of books have existed for centuries, but there have been significant changes in how we acquire, borrow, buy, and read books.
I was having a conversation with a woman in our church about a novel we both enjoyed. She mentioned she gets all of her books from the library or a library app. I had to resist hopping on a soapbox, practically pleading with her to buy some new books each year. I’ve seen this among other friends and family members, who regularly borrow and exchange books. When we go to the beach, my great aunt often brings a bag of books that have already been read and passed around her friend group, and are ready to pass along again. When I’ve shared books I purchased new here on the blog, I’ve occasionally been chastized for not buying a used book or simply checking it out from the library.
I love everything about book sharing and libraries. I think it’s an excellent way to pass along a story that spoke to us with people who might also love it. There are books you simply want to read once, and there isn’t a need to buy it to park it on a shelf. There is only one thing I want to say to encourage my fellow bibliophiles and avid readers…
Use the library, use library apps, buy used books, participate in book swaps with your friends, but if you love reading books, please buy some new books, too. Here is the truth: there will be no books to put in the library, swap with your friends, borrow from an app, or find at a used book shop if no one buys new books.
Buying new books supports living authors, illustrators, photographers, and publishers, so more stories can be shared, and more books can be produced and brought to market.
I take a diverse approach when it comes to reading and/or acquiring books. Some I preorder or buy new in physical form, audiobook, or digitally. If a book is out of print or has been around for several years, I’ll usually buy it used. For books that I’m not likely to reference or read again, I’ll borrow them from a friend or the local library. I also lend books, swap books, gift books, and receive books. Since I get excited when new books on my favorite subjects are on the horizon, I hope I’m doing enough to support living authors, bookmakers, printers, and publishers to keep the industry thriving.
If you are a lover of books, go buy a new book or two, even if you’re going to pass it along or give it as a gift. Here are a few new books that are about to be released that I’ve already preordered or will purchase when my book budget allows –
Okay, I already have this book. Six boxes of this book, and the audiobook, and a digital copy! I even have the notes, outline, proposal, and rough drafts. But I have to include it on this list if you’re looking for a bit of encouragement for your creative soul. The book is divided into essays and short stories, so it’s easy to digest and hop around to chapters that feel most relevant to your mood or current season of life.
As I said, I am very proud of this book. If you enjoy reading my blog, you’ll enjoy the book. It will be available September 1, 2026.
I was so excited to see that a long-time Instagram friend, Harriet Thistlethwaite of @yomargey on Instagram, had a book coming out. I have sighed over her garden and greenhouse for years, so I know her book will be an inspiring, lovely read. It will be available October 6, 2026.
The World’s Most Beautiful Shops
I love a good shop front and store display, so sign me up for this book! I used to think I wanted to own a store, but I realized one day that I just wanted to “play store”. I wanted to set up the displays, have an excuse to buy amazing counters and shelves, and source products that would draw people in. I didn’t really want to manage a store, though! I had the chance to “play store” with my PA studio, which was open by chance or appointment, and when I was a vendor at antique stores and markets. Now that I’m out of the furniture and antiques business, I can browse through this book and let my imagination run wild. It will be available October 27, 2026.
Myquillyn Smith and I go way back to my very early days of blogging. She’s been a friend, a mentor, and someone I’ve looked up to as a blogger, author, and creative. Of course, her new book, House Hushing, is on my list. The thing I love most about Myquillyn, AKA The Nester, is that she has the best way of saying things. She makes everything about decorating feel accessible and gives the best advice for achieving a beautiful home. I expect no less from her newest book. It’s available August 25, 2026.
Secrets of an English Country House
I love following the stories of old homes. I am especially fascinated by European estates that have been handed down for generations and are struggling to find their place in a modern world. I have a few books on my shelf about the restoration and preservation of these grand homes, and I love following accounts on social media that tell these stories as well. One of those homes is Mapperton. Julie Montagu, an American who married into British aristocracy, is so much fun to follow. She’s enthusiastic, curious, entertaining, and seems to have endless passion for the estate, history, and family she married into. I’m excited to buy and read their first book. It will be available September 22, 2206.
Which new books have you purchased lately?
One Response
Cookbooks! For years I have given my girls a new cookbook..one tried and tested by me for approval. They now have a good library of recipes and know exactly where my favorites are. I will include a hand carved wooden spoon, a new linen towel or something unique for their kitchens. Also give this for new brides.
For new babies, I always give a few books. Hands down my favorite gift to a new mom and dad.
Of course, art books.