Ordinary Time: Lessons Learned While Staying Put ― A Biographical Exploration of the Unexpected Joys of a Quiet Life
About the book
Author: Annie B. Jones
Publisher: HarperOne
More info:
The StoryGraph | Goodreads
Note: Content and trigger warnings are provided for those who need them at the bottom of this page. If you don’t need them and don’t want to risk spoilers, don’t scroll past the review.
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My Review
Everyone who’s listened to bookstore owner Annie B. Jones’ podcast, From the Front Porch, knows she’s warm, lovely, and passionate about books. All of that, plus more, is fully present in this memoiristic essay collection about her experience living (and staying) in a small town near where she grew up.
As someone who married her high school sweetheart and lives 45 minutes from her childhood home, I knew I needed to read this one as soon as it was announced. And I’m so glad I did. I loved the way Jones finds all the best parts about living a quiet life and highlights the ways in which it can be just as much of an adventure. I even loved the chapters she wrote on her faith and experiences with the church, even though I’m not religious myself. Her writing is just that good.
The essays are short and the tone is warm (but never saccharine), which made this book feel easy to sink into. I was sad when it was over. I look forward to reading whatever Jones writes next!
Content and Trigger Warnings
Religious bigotry
Pregnancy, miscarriage, infertility (minor)