<p>In this first “Read With Me” episode, I’m sharing reflections on I Who Have Never Known Men by Jacqueline Harpman, a haunting, deeply philosophical dystopian novel that unexpectedly became one of the most meaningful books I’ve read recently.</p><p>I read this during the winter solstice season on the Isle of Lewis, and despite rarely reading dystopian fiction, I found myself profoundly moved by the novel’s exploration of uncertainty, loneliness, curiosity, resilience, and human connection.</p><p>In this episode, I explore:</p><ul><li>reading as a nervous system experience</li><li>suspense and anxiety in fiction</li><li>existential literature in approachable ways</li></ul><ul><li>how imagining “the worst case scenario” can sometimes reduce fear</li><li>the resilience of ritual, companionship, and curiosity</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Here is the link to the free Creative Grief Club, which includes monthly Zoom sessions and the book group on Fable: <a href="https://griefmagic.com/free/">⁠https://griefmagic.com/free/⁠</a></p><p>Thanks for listening!</p><p>Love,</p><p>Yarrow</p>