After the sudden death of his father, 14-year-old Benny Oh begins to hear the voices of objects around him. Books whisper, teapots murmur, and every possession seems to have a story to tell. Overwhelmed by grief and these persistent sounds, Benny finds solace in a library where he meets an unconventional group of misfits, including a street artist and a talking book. Meanwhile, his mother, Annabelle, struggles with hoarding as she tries to cope with her loss. The Book of Form and Emptiness is a deeply moving exploration of grief, storytelling, and the relationship between people and the material world.

Why read this book?

• A unique blend of magical realism and philosophical inquiry into the meaning of objects.

• Explores grief, mental health, and the power of literature in healing.

• Features a deeply empathetic protagonist navigating the chaos of life.

• Ruth Ozeki’s lyrical prose and Zen Buddhist influences add depth and insight.

About the Author

Ruth Ozeki is an award-winning novelist, filmmaker, and Zen Buddhist priest. Her works, including A Tale for the Time Being and My Year of Meats, often blend Eastern philosophy with contemporary storytelling, exploring themes of identity, consciousness, and interconnectedness