A review by edgar_rio
Instructor by Beth Follett

5.0

Beth Follett's "Instructor" is a beautiful, powerful novel about loss, imperfection, and finding wonder in the present moment. On the surface it's a moving book about a woman grieving the loss of her husband and the people she meets and impacts, and who in turn have an impact on her during her grieving process - a process that morphs into a complete revision of her life philosophy. But on deeper levels the novel delves into metaphysics and metaphor, drawing heavily on yoga and so-called Eastern influences, though always careful to remind us that there are no easy answers; everything ties back into an ethos of imperfection, and the possibility of finding beauty and truth within that imperfection, rather than in spite of it.

Reading "Instructor" is an experience not to be missed, one that will open pathways to stillness and self-reflection even as you come to relate powerfully to the delightfully real cast of characters. Beth Follett writes prose with the eye and attention of a poet, and the result is delightful. Highly recommended.