The How: Notes on the Great Work of Meeting Yourself Paperback – November 2, 2021

We are drowning in so many hows that we cannot find ourselves; and when all we are told is that we do not know how, all that we feel is weight.I was introduced to Yrsa-Daley Ward’s work through her debut poetry collection Bone. Since then, I have kept up with her books, Instagram page, newsletters, and anywhere she writes her thoughts. I find her prose to be hauntingly beautiful and introspective. When I found out she was penning a self help book, I had to check it out because her other works have contained so many gems.The How did not disappoint. It is a manifesto on getting back to who you were before the trauma, the hurt, before the media programming, before the world told you who to be. She accomplishes this through a combination of her signature prose and common sense quips about life. At the end of each chapter she includes exercises to help you find your how, to make you reflect, and guide you to the answers you are seeking.This was the last book I read in 2021,and it was the perfect way to wind down and remember my why/how. There is not necessarily anything new presented in this book, especially for those of us who are always actively seeking ways to be better, but the way the information was presented was entertaining and timely.I would recommend this book to anyone looking to get back to themselves and doing the things that they used to love.

Highly recommend; it was so relatable. I will most likely read again! Thank you for being genuine in your words and delivery.

This was my first time reading work by thos author and I'm glad I did. I love how her writing just flowed like a poem about self

I love the fact that this compilation does not belong to any one genre but combines both poetry and prose, along with reflections in the style of a journal. I had to stop reading midway though because the craft was a bit overwhelming but I'll pick up on it again very soon. 10/10 recommend!

I bought this book on a total whim. I think I just wanted something short so I didn’t know what I was getting myself into. I loved this book. Simple to read, but poetic and really gets you thinking about yourself. I’ve recommended to everyone I know and have bought more copies to give out as presents. Miss Yrsa has a way with words. This book may not have every answer you’re looking for, but it left me with a warm feeling and I don’t get that from many non-fiction pieces. Highly recommended.

How is this book not widely known?! I’m lucky to have stumbled into it and immediately bought an additional copy for a loved one, though I think everyone I know should have a copy…the same for those I don’t know. In fact, beautiful *you* should have a copy of this gorgeous, profound, life-altering, and life-affirming book. It is a salve even when you don’t think you need one…it is ready and there for you if you think you do.Yrsa, you are brilliant and beautiful and I thank you for pouring yourself into this magnificent companion that reflects the light that we are. Your weaving of words into gold is the greatest alchemy and the greatest inspiration.Don’t think, just buy this book. The why doesn’t matter, it will show you the how.Love, Selena Sage

I never write reviews but this was an awesome book. Relevant in so many ways that it touched me to write this review. I dog-eared so many pages and will likely read it again. Well done.

I enjoyed this simple yet profound and thought provoking book! Easy to carry anywhere so you can read anytime. You won't want to put it down.