Elizabeth Carmichael Livres

Many people reach success by deliberately being their own worst critic and obsessively double-checking their work; or by pushing their feelings aside. The "somewhat OCD" tendencies we pride ourselves on can become mismanaged, and lead us down a rabbit hole of excessive self-criticism, anxiety, and pessimism. Carmichael outlines nine tools with step-by-step instructions that can help you harness your nervous energy in order to live a more productive and fulfilling life. -- adapted from jacket

All over Mexico, early in November, families gather to welcome the souls of the dead on their annual visit home. The smells of burning copal incense and pungent cempasuchil (marigolds) mingle with the aromas of fresh bread, new clothing, sweets, and candles. One of Mexico's most important festivals since prehispanic times, the Day of the Dead is an occasion for celebrating and feasting, cleaning and decorating graves, dancing and making music.In this unique work, the authors explore both the historic origins of this holiday and its colorful present-day celebrations in Mexico and the United States. Interviews with Mexican artists and crafters who provide goods for the festival--from personalized sugar skulls to gigantic papier-mache skeletons--offer a fascinating glimpse into traditional and contemporary attitudes toward death and the dead.Lavishly illustrated with color and black-and-white photographs, The Skeleton at the Feast will be required reading for all who are interested in Mexican culture, art, and folklore.