The Book of Delights by Ross Gay
Essays by Ross Gay
Overview
The Book of Delights is Ross Gay’s first nonfiction collection: a series of lyrical “essayettes,” each capturing a small moment of daily wonder over the course of a year. From observing nature in his garden to meaningful interludes with strangers, Gay invites readers into a discipline of noticing delight—while still wrestling with grief, race, and ecological anxiety.
Why It Matters
This collection demonstrates how paying attention can be both radical and restorative. Gay's daily reflections build an invitation—to slow, feel, and affirm joy even as we bear witness to sorrow. The result is a sustaining meditation on grief, connection, and the resilience of care.
Quick Facts
Author: Ross Gay
Published: February 12, 2019 by Algonquin Books
Genre: Essays, Memoir
Pages: ~288 pages
Keywords: Delight, Essayettes, Joy, Nature, Mindfulness, Grief, Race, Ecological Awareness, Resilience, Presence, Daily Writing, Lyrical Reflection
