The Cottage Fairy Companion

"Merrill, who has one million subscribers, believes that a cozy cottagecore vibe can be had anywhere, not just in the country. As she writes in her debut, The Cottage Fairy Companion, ... a beautiful life 'isn't dependent on where you live, but how.' She organizes the projects and reflections in the book by season, under chapter headings including "A Gentle Start," "Cultivating a Loving Space," and "Quiet Living in Winter." Her crafts-orange slice garlands, a terrarium, and more-are 'very easy,' [senior editor Natasha] Vera says, but 'they're no less enjoyable, even if you're an expert. The purpose isn't to keep busy or master it. It's to slow down and have a moment to connect to nature and yourself and be in the present moment.' " -Publishers Weekly "Merrill (Cottage Fairy YouTube channel) discusses what she has learned about her cottage and herself as the seasons change. She discusses her transition from city to country living, and while the book focuses on country life, solutions for connecting to the seasons and nature are offered for city dwellers as well. The book embraces the cottagecore trend, and while the word 'hygge' is never used, it is embodied in the text. Merrill's subscribers-more than a million-will embrace this work, and readers unfamiliar with her YouTube channel may also find it enjoyable. Readers will find recipes, crafts, guided activities, and a meditation for each season. The sections also include questions to guide readers on their path to mindfulness. VERDICT: This book presents an easy entry point for readers interested in exploring mindfulness and the cottagecore lifestyle. " -Carrie Byrd, Library Journal

Paola Merrill is a Puerto Rican American living in rural NE Washington State. She is an English literature student, and has worked as a magazine editor and writer for several years. The philosophy behind her popular Youtube channel, The Cottage Fairy, was to bring people from all backgrounds together and develop a greater awareness of nature preservation and sustainable living. Her videos are artistic representations of daily life. They are intended to be meditative and have a calming effect on the viewers. As for past examples of her work, she is an English literature student who worked as a magazine editor and writer for several years.