“Language is our portal to meaning-making, connection, healing, learning, and self-awareness. Having access to the right words can open up entire universes.”

One reason University of Houston professor Brene Brown’s books are bestsellers is that her writing is beautiful. She presents data on courage, vulnerability, shame, and empathy with words that feel more like a story than a textbook. Her latest book, Atlas of the Heart, is designed to be physically beautiful as well. While not quite as large as a coffee-table book, it presents itself as if it belongs in that category with its rich and colorful illustrations, varied font sizes, and full page breakout quotes. It is a heavy book to hold, and while easy to read, exploring 87 different emotions and experiences is likely to tug at readers’ hearts along the way. This is a book that offers a thoughtful opportunity for reflection in a gift-worthy package.