Guide Books

Each episode takes a life experience - such as grief - and talks to writers about they handle it through their own reading, writing and lived experience. We explore the fiction, non-fiction, memoir and poetry that might help us better understand our own stories.

In today's episode we explore books that help us understand our relationship with our bodies, especially in this moment - as many of us are faced with transitioning back into public space after a year lived on screens and physically separated from one another. And in a time when many are dealing with anxieties around sickness or are living with its effects.

Damian's guests are Sarah Perry (The Essex Serpent; Melmoth; Essex Girls) and Sin退ad Gleeson (Constellations: Reflections from Life). They discuss books by Maggie Nelson, Lucy Grealy, Sean Hewitt, Audre Lorde, Adrienne Rich, Anne Carson and Edwin Morgan.

Produced by Mair Bosworth for BBC Audio in Bristol

(Damian Barr Portrait by Andrew Hasson)

Books to help us navigate everyday life, with Damian Barr.

Each episode takes a life experience - such as grief - and talks to writers about they handle it through their own reading, writing and lived experience. We explore the fiction, non-fiction, memoir and poetry that might help us better understand our own stories.

In this episode, Damian is joined by Stella Duffy and Cathy Rentzenbrink to talk about the poetry, fiction and non-fiction books that have helped them navigate loss in their own lives, and support others in their grief. From the poetry of Mary Oliver and the fiction of Alice Walker, to the Buddhist teachings of Pema Chodron and the writings of psychotherapist Julia Samuel.

Stella Duffy is a novelist, short story writer and playwright, who has also worked in theatre for many years. She co-founded the UK-wide Fun Palaces campaign for community connection. A qualified yoga teacher, she is currently training in Existential Psychotherapy with a view to combining therapy, bodywork and creative practice.

Cathy Rentzenbrink is the author of The Last Act of Love, A Manual for Heartache and Dear Reader: The Comfort and Joy of Books. Her debut novel - Everyone is Still Alive - will be published in July 2021.

Produced by Mair Bosworth for BBC Audio in Bristol

Details of organisations offering information and support with bereavement are available at BBC.co.uk/actionline, or you can call for free, at any time to hear recorded information on 08000 158 707.

Books to help us navigate everyday life, with Damian Barr.

Each episode takes a life experience - such as grief - and talks to writers about they handle it through their own reading, writing and lived experience. We explore the fiction, non-fiction, memoir and poetry that might help us better understand our own stories.

This week - how can we deepen our engagement with the natural world around us? Many of us experienced a shift in our relationship with nature during the pandemic; how can we stay tuned in to nature, and keep looking with fresh eyes, as the world grows busier once more? Damian is joined by Helen Macdonald (Vesper Flights; H is for Hawk) and Melissa Harrison (The Stubborn Light of Things; By Ash, Oak and Thorn; All Among the Barley) to talk about the poetry, field guides and fiction that have guided them.

Produced by Mair Bosworth for BBC Audio in Bristol

Books to help us navigate everyday life, with Damian Barr.