Steeped in Stories: Timeless Children's Novels to Refresh Our Tired Souls

Mitali Perkins

Aug 2021 · Tantor Media Inc · Narrated by Siiri Scott

About this audiobook

Award-winning children's author Mitali Perkins grew up steeped in stories-escaping into her books on the fire escape of a Flushing apartment building and, later, finding solace in them as she navigated between the cultures of her suburban California school and her Bengali heritage at home. Now Perkins invites us to explore the promise of seven timeless children's novels for adults living in uncertain times: stories that provide mirrors to our innermost selves and open windows to other worlds. Blending personal narrative, accessible literary criticism, and spiritual and moral formation, Perkins delves into novels by Louisa May Alcott, C. S. Lewis, L. M. Montgomery, Frances Hodgson Burnett, and other literary "uncles" and "aunts" that illuminate the virtuous, abundant life we still desire. These novels are not perfect, and Perkins honestly assesses their critical frailties and flaws related to race, culture, and power. Yet examining these books as adults can help us build virtue, unmask our vices, and restore our hope. Reconnecting with these stories from childhood isn't merely nostalgia. In an era of uncertainty and despair, they lighten our load and bring us much-needed hope.

About the author

Mitali Perkins is an award-winning author of novels and picture books for young readers. Her books have been nominated for the National Book Award, won the South Asia Book Award, and listed as a Best Book of the Year by Publishers Weekly, Kirkus, and School Library Journal.

Siiri Scott is the head of acting and directing at the University of Notre Dame. She received her MFA in acting from The Theatre School at DePaul University. An actor/director/educator, Siiri is an artistic associate with the Irish Theatre of Chicago and a Theatre Nohgaku company member.