Cruel Summer Book Club
is a weekly newsletter about
making space for your art and yourself.

Respect Your Own Ideas

This year, I chose one overarching goal for my creative life: to give my ideas the respect they deserve. My ideas need to breathe, and it’s my job to give them air.

The Illusion of Job Security

Your full-time role that comes with health insurance does not guarantee your safety. Work is not your family, and work will never love you back. 

Single Woman

Suddenly, I saw a man walking toward me. There was nothing back there but me, no reason for him to be coming this way, especially at the fast pace he was walking.

The Talisman

Suddenly, I noticed—felt with my entire being—that my ring was gone. My grandmother’s ring.

The Psychic’s Warning

There is nothing like those first few months of dating someone you are already on your way to loving. There is so much to discover, so many questions. What will we become?

This is My Go-To Boundary

Boundaries often feel awful and personal. But you are not responsible for other people’s feelings. You are responsible for showing up for yourself, protecting your own peace, and setting appropriate boundaries with the people you allow into your life.