The Art of Astonishment: Reflections on Gifts and Grace

The Art of Astonishment is a 2023 Next Generation Indie Book Award winner in Non-Fiction, exploring the intellectual, religious, and philosophical history of the gift and the interconnected story of grace. It covers a range of materials from ancient texts to contemporary literature, examining the nature of social and communal obligation, the role of the intellectual in times of crisis, and the pleasures of reading.

Format: Hardback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 10 March 2022
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing Plc

Alice Brittan's captivating book, "The Art of Astonishment," delves into the intricate tapestry of the gift's intellectual, religious, and philosophical heritage, weaving together a captivating narrative that explores the origins and profound effects of grace. Spanning a vast array of materials, from ancient epics like "The Epic of Gilgamesh" and "The Iliad" to the works of renowned authors such as the Brothers Grimm, Montaigne, C.S. Lewis, Toni Morrison, J.M. Coetzee, Elena Ferrante, Karl Ove Knausgaard, and Jhumpa Lahiri, Brittan skillfully navigates between personal anecdotes, mythological narratives, theological discussions, literary analysis, and social commentary. Through her insightful examinations, Brittan delves into the essence of social and communal obligation, the role of the intellectual in times of crisis, and the sheer joy of reading itself.

In the contemporary world, grace may be perceived as a captivating and sophisticated trait that adds a touch of elegance to our lives, yet it remains merely a supplemental aspect rather than a cornerstone of our existence or the principles that unite or divide us. However, throughout millennia, grace has been acknowledged as a vital force that enriches our inner lives and propels significant shifts in perspective and legislation that enhance our collective well-being. Moreover, grace is truly awe-inspiring, as evidenced by the profound insights offered in "The Art of Astonishment." Brittan unveils the breadth of grace, revealing its sacred and secular dimensions, its ancient and modern incarnations, and its lived experiences as well as its literary manifestations. By doing so, she illuminates the profound connection between the act of reading and grace, emphasizing its social nature while simultaneously retaining its personal and essential qualities.

In conclusion, "The Art of Astonishment" is a remarkable work that offers a profound exploration of the gift's intellectual, religious, and philosophical history. Through Brittan's insightful narratives and profound insights, readers are invited to contemplate the nature of grace, its impact on our lives, and the transformative power of reading itself. This book is a testament to the enduring significance of grace and its ability to inspire and transform us, regardless of our age or background.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781501383571