I Used to Have a Plan: But Life Had Other Ideas

Illustrator Olanow combines charming drawings with mild affirmations in these reflections on getting through times of loss. Olanow uses a light touch in both her illustrations and text to explain her mental state and coping mechanisms for letting go of anxiety. Lines of vague encouragement include a drawing of a note to oneself that reads, “I’m not where I want to be but at least I’m not where I used to be.” On another page, the words “I’ll just stay inside” float in the middle of an otherwise blank page. Some of the art, which alternates pages with Olanow’s short observations, chart her feelings (such as a Venn diagram of “fear” and “faith,” with “I’m somewhere in here” noted in the middle). Other drawings show a feminine figure in various states of repose and provide quiet bits of introspection: “I had to let go to realize there was nothing there to hold on to.” A flip through the book is as soothing as a cup of chamomile tea, with results that last just as long. (Dec.)