How to Be Alone by Tanya Davis with illustrations by Andrea Dorfman

How to Be Alone is a poem written by Tanya Davis with illustrations by Andrea Dorfman that has adapted the poem into a beautiful book. The original “How to Be Alone” video on youtube has over 6 million well deserved views, and I am one of the many viewers of it who fell in love with the poem, and the positive message of being alone. See it for yourself before reading more about the book.

Book Description

“From a solitary walk in the woods to sitting unaccompanied on a city park bench to eating a meal and even dancing alone, certain activities can feel strange when you're on your own. We rarely treasure those moments, even though there are abundant possibilities and delights waiting to be discovered when we have the time to just be with ourselves. Tanya Davis's words and Andrea Dorfman's beautiful illustrations soothe the disquiet that accompanies this fear of aloneness, and celebrate the power of solitude to change our views of ourselves and the world. How to Be Alone reveals how, removed from the noise and distractions of other lives, we can find acceptance and grace within.

For those who have never been by themselves, or for those who relish being on their own, this moving work encourages us to recognize and embrace the possibilities of being alone—and reminds us of a universe of joy, peace, and discovery waiting to unfold.” – How to Be Alone

My Thoughts

How to Be Alone is amazing. It is a beautifully designed poem that I saw on youtube that turned into a truly gorgeous book that anyone can enjoy anywhere – especially if they are alone.

The poem has a real place in my heart because it speaks the truth in so many ways. Being “alone” doesn’t mean that a person is necessarily lonely. Society and your family may not get you, and that is okay. Being you and being able to enjoy your life alone is an important part of truly finding yourself and happiness. Excellent message for people to get today. I couldn’t say enough positive things about it.

The illustrations for this book is also fabulous. It isn’t overly done to make it more dramatic. It is simple and sophisticated in a way that is truly magical.

This is a perfect book. I enjoyed it very much and would highly recommend everyone to watch the youtube video, read the book, and buy a few more to give as presents.

* Thank you to the publisher of How to Be Alone, Harper, for providing me with a copy of this book for review. All opinions expressed are my own.