When I went to ACL last October, I was wandering between stages when I heard something I wanted more of.
It was Jon Batiste.
His voice and a saxophone lured me to the stage, but when I got there, I saw glitter outfits, fairies, and a backdrop of painted planets.
The music was soulful with a touch of gospel and I was HOOKED. So, when he was the artist with the most Grammy nominations this year, I was so happy for him.
But then I saw a special on CBS Sunday Morning about him and his wife, who was battling cancer for the second time.
The cover of her book flashed on the TV screen and my jaw dropped.
I bought that book — “Between Two Kingdoms” — at the start of the pandemic. I had no idea she was married to Jon Batiste!
Admittedly, I haven’t read the book yet… because it does discuss her first battle with cancer. I am often triggered by cancer-related content because my dad passed from cancer-related complications in 2018.
And yes, I bought the book knowing about the cancer, but sometimes, when the story is THAT good, I can get through it.
But, after seeing the clip, I knew it was time to read the book — at the very least, to send good vibes to Jon and his wife.
I thought, what if I read it WITH people and we could support each other?
Cancer affects so many of us in one way or another, so let’s process it together.
So, here’s my invitation to you — read “Between Two Kingdoms” by Suleika Jaouad with me and we’ll discuss it in some virtual form, on June 30, 2022. You in? Sign up here.
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The Bitter Lemon 