"At the moment I'm struck by the idea of reading as a place where we can move consciousness. We need to move towards a culture that allows for mutual flourishing, and reading is a place where we can be inspired to change our minds and change how we act. That's how the world changes.
"Indie bookstores are crucial wellsprings for the health of our democracy. I see them as places that nurture community and our connection to each other, where books aren't merely commodities but the meeting point for two minds. I'd be remiss if I didn't mention how grateful I am for the support of indie booksellers."
--Robin Wall Kimmerer, whose book The Serviceberry: Abundance and Reciprocity in the Natural World, illustrated by John Burgoyne (Scribner), is the #1 December Indie Next List pick, in a q&a with Bookselling This Week