Imagine – it’s late at night, and the lights are dimmed. You’re wrapped in a blanket, there is a cup of tea by your side, and you’re reading. If that sounds nice, I have just the book for you: “Pillow Thoughts” by Courtney Peppernell (2016). It ended up being the first of four books in a series. I would highly recommend it:
Firstly, it’s easy to connect with the poetry. The book is split into ten sections, and each with a different experience or emotion. For example, there is one titled “if you are heartbroken” and another called “if you need a reason to stay.”
There are a wide range of experiences that Peppernell writes about, so everyone can find a poem that is relatable. While I was reading this book, I found so many pieces of writing that put my feelings into words, and that was a very comforting feeling. For example, an excerpt from a poem on page 201 in the “if you are soul-searching” section: “And I’ll be the lighthouse you need. Take my hand and breathe again, and I will guide you home.”
Another thing that makes this book so good is the raw emotion that Peppernell writes with. The way that she writes makes it feel as if she’s talking directly to you herself about her experiences. This is a unique experience for me. I’ve read a good share of poetry books before, but none felt this real. And for me, that’s special. Seeing someone write with this much emotion makes for such a great read.
One other element that I enjoy in this book is the LGBTQ representation. In the book, Peppernell writes about a woman she once loved, or currently loves. She never mentions the woman’s name, but the retelling of her story often comes up in the sections “if you are in love” and “if you are heartbroken.” It’s a beautiful representation of queer love.
Finally, one of the smaller reasons I enjoy this book is the jellyfish featured throughout. In the beginning of the book, there’s a drawing of a jellyfish, and a note from the author, where she is addressing the reader as the jellyfish. And, it makes reading feel like more of a personal experience. Additionally, before a new section starts, there is a drawing of the jellyfish, depicting different feelings and experiences. Overall, I would say this book is something people of all ages can enjoy and would highly recommend it to anyone looking for an interesting and introspective read.
