WABI SABI. ‘Wisdom for a Perfectly Imperfect Life.’ Beth Kempton masterfully intertwines various elements of Japanese culture, presenting them in a manner that readers can readily integrate into their own lives. You might wonder why one would seek to do this, especially considering that Western culture may appear fundamentally different from its Asian counterparts. Yet, through her skillful craftsmanship, Kempton manages to create a remarkably impactful and harmonious work.
For me, there’s something delightful about holding a well-crafted book in my hands as I read. Don’t get me wrong; I appreciate the conveniences that eBooks offer. But there’s a certain fondness I have for the tactile experience of a hardback book—the texture and the weight of it. “Wabi Sabi” is one of those books that practically begs to be held in your hands. Measuring at 7.25″ by 5.25″, it’s the perfect size for a cozy and intimate read.
The cover design caught my eye. I was so captivated by it that I found myself meticulously examining photos of the cover. Eventually, I took the plunge and invested in the hardcover edition. It turned out to be a decision I found satisfying. The entire book, from cover to cover, is a genuine work of art.
The interior pages boast excellent paper quality, artistic chapter breaks, and the incorporation of ideographic symbols such as Kanji, all meticulously arranged in a pleasing format that elevates the text and harmonizes with the cover design.
Before delving into the book, I had no prior knowledge that the author is a life coach. Had I been aware of this fact, I might have been less inclined to buy the book, as I’ve already read a fair number of works from that genre. Frankly, I had moved on.
Ignorance is bliss, and again, I am gratified to have made the purchase.
For over two decades, Ms. Kempton has been deeply immersed in Japanese culture, embarking on this journey as a young adult. She wholeheartedly embraced this new world, even before mastering the language, and eagerly embedded herself within the Japanese way of life.
In her book “Wabi Sabi,” she offers a concise, impeccably written guide on how to slow down and savor life’s subtle pleasures – a skill often overlooked in today’s
fast-paced, AI-driven, and social media-dominated existence. An important differentiation in this work is its nuanced approach that sets it apart from typical life coaching literature. This subtlety reflects the cultural ethos of Japan, where understatement, subtlety, and the wisdom of centuries permeate every aspect of life.
The book encourages readers to connect with nature, embrace their strengths and weaknesses, and learn the art of self-compassion, ultimately integrating mindfulness into their daily existence. Beth Kempton, the author and life coach, provides practical tools that make the content of the book not only thought-provoking but also applicable in real life.
While many of us may have encountered fragments or glimpses of the concept of Wabi Sabi, Ms. Kempton, with her charming, straightforward, and passionate approach, introduces readers to the beauty of simplicity and the grace that the passage of time brings, both in the natural world and within ourselves.