Lately, I’ve been thinking about the concept of a small, sturdy world. The big, unsettling world—the one with the loudness, and the 24-hour news, and the social media—that’s always there. I want to build a world for myself that feels solid. Cozy. Calm. I’m building this world out of paperbacks and croissants; bookish friends and wine.

I’m an overthinker (can I get a “Woo!” for my fellow brain-bashers?), and the world can feel like a lot. But I find that the more I connect with others with similar pursuits and senses of humor and taste in vintage T-shirts, the more I can sink into a world that’s low stakes but joyful. It’s self-care without having to light a candle or find a mantra.

To this end, I’ll be attending an event called a “Book Doof” this weekend at a local bar. For those of you who are unfamiliar, a “doof” is Australian slang for a rave/dance party. This event is, essentially, a book rave; however, the music will be chill, wine will replace shots, and I’d be very surprised if anyone there were hallucinating or wearing goggles (no judgment!). The plan is: bring a book, buy a drink, and read in the company of other readers. Then you can go home, if you’ve had enough peopling, or hang around for a bit and talk books with your fellow ravers. It’s not revolutionary. It’s not productive. It’s the perfect afternoon.

There’s comfort to be found in this kind of ritual. It’s not going to change the world at large, but it might change mine. It reminds me to show up, connect, and choose where I direct my attention. (I can also direct my attention to Heated Rivalry, but I’ll do that when I get home). It helps me to be present not just in the world, but in my world.

This issue of Oh Reader is one paperbound bookish world; you’ll fi nd stories about Danielle Steel, the gym, democracy, non-stuffy poetry, a deathbed vigil, learning Dutch, hysterectomies, romance, and hotel bars. I invite you to pour a drink and sit with Oh Reader for a while. Maybe ask a friend to join you! All are welcome here.

Gemma Peckham

Editor

Oh Reader