The Book of Form and Emptiness by Ruth Ozeki

Description

In the wake of a devastating loss, Benny Oh, a fourteen-year-old boy, finds himself haunted by an extraordinary phenomenon: he starts hearing voices. These voices emanate from the inanimate objects inhabiting his home, expressing a range of emotions from delight to anger to sorrow. As Benny’s mother grapples with a compulsive hoarding disorder, the chorus of voices intensifies, creating a cacophony within his mind. Seeking solace, Benny seeks refuge in the serenity of a sprawling public library.

Within the library’s walls, Benny encounters a captivating street artist accompanied by a self-assured pet ferret, an insightful philosopher-poet living on the streets, and a unique companion—his very own Book. This Book becomes the narrator of Benny’s life, guiding him to listen attentively to the intrinsic value of things that truly matter.

Ruth Ozeki, in her signature style, masterfully weaves together an unforgettable cast of characters against a backdrop of jazz, climate change, and our deep-rooted attachment to material possessions. In this poignant tale, Ozeki’s storytelling shines brightly, blending courage, empathy, and profound sorrow to create a timeless narrative.