Podcasts > What Should I Read Next? > Ep 417: Hygge books for cozy winter reading

Ep 417: Hygge books for cozy winter reading

By Anne Bogel

Dive into the quaint Danish notion of hygge with Anne Bogel and special guest Sarah Butler on "What Should I Read Next?" as they explore the concept of finding comfort and joy in the simple pleasures of life, particularly during the frosty winter months. Sarah, an enthusiastic adopter of hygge, discusses how this Scandinavian tradition extends beyond the Christmas season, becoming a year-long approach to creating a warm, inviting atmosphere at home and embracing the cold weather with the right attire and mindset.

Literary parallels draw us from the cozy corners of Denmark to the bustling streets of New York City, as Sarah and Anne discuss works that encapsulate the city's unique spirit. From the Upper East Side lifescapes in Laurie Colwin’s "Family Happiness" to the community-centric "The Vanderbeekers of 141st Street" series, the conversation reveals how books can serve as vehicles that transport readers straight into the heart of Harlem’s tight-knit neighborhood and the diverse tapestry that is New York City, highlighting the power of setting in literature to radiate the essence of a locale.

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Ep 417: Hygge books for cozy winter reading

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Ep 417: Hygge books for cozy winter reading

1-Page Summary

Scandinavian Winter Culture and Hygge

Sarah Butler identifies with the Danish notion of hygge, a concept she illuminates as the embodiment of joy and coziness in everyday life, irrespective of season or time. This concept supplies her and many readers with an expressive lexicon and affirmed sense that their enjoyment of cozy winter moments, such as being warm indoors while a storm rages outside, is a recognized cultural phenomenon.

Hygge is an attitude towards life that involves welcoming the winter season with both mental readiness and physical environment adjustments. Sarah Butler suggests that embracing the winter entails not only adopting the right mindset but also making lifestyle changes, such as wearing warm clothes and creating a cozy home atmosphere with items like fake fireplaces, candles, and twinkle lights.

The catalyst for Sarah Butler's fascination with Scandinavian culture was Helen Russell’s book "The Year of Living Danishly," which opened up a new perspective on the concept of happiness within Danish culture for her. This book significantly influenced her journey into exploring the Scandinavian way of life.

Regarding the mention of "The Snow Child," there is no further information provided about its connection to Scandinavian winter culture and its influence on character development or emotional healing in this context.

Immersing Readers in New York City Atmosphere and Culture

The essence of New York City, with its multicultural vibrancy and distinct lifestyle, has been captured authentically in literature. Sarah Butler particularly admires Laurie Colwin's novels, citing "Family Happiness" for its New York City infused narrative and realistic depiction of life in the Upper East Side. She praises the way Colwin's side characters contribute to the New York essence through their particular quirks and eccentricities.

"The Vanderbeekers of 141st Street" series, as recommended by Anne Bogel, is highlighted as an example of literature that successfully transports readers to the heart of Harlem, New York. The series, praised as an accessible read that is equally enjoyable for adults, leverages the setting of Harlem, characterized by its diversity and communal spirit, especially around the Christmas season. Sarah Butler sees the promise in these books, which immerse readers in the atmosphere of New York City through the heartfelt depiction of its community, as penned by Brooklyn author Karina Yang-Glaser.

1-Page Summary

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Hygge is a Danish concept that embodies coziness, contentment, and well-being in everyday life, particularly during the winter season. It involves creating a warm and inviting atmosphere through simple pleasures like candles, warm blankets, and good company. Hygge emphasizes the importance of mindfulness, comfort, and connection with others to promote a sense of happiness and fulfillment. Embracing hygge involves both a mental attitude of appreciation for small moments and practical adjustments to one's surroundings to cultivate a sense of comfort and joy.
  • Sarah Butler's fascination with Scandinavian culture was sparked by Helen Russell’s book "The Year of Living Danishly," which provided her with a fresh perspective on Danish happiness and lifestyle. This book played a significant role in shaping Butler's exploration of the Scandinavian way of life and influenced her understanding of concepts like hygge.
  • Laurie Colwin's novels portray New York City with a focus on the Upper East Side, capturing the essence of the city's multicultural vibrancy and distinct lifestyle through authentic narratives. Colwin's depiction includes side characters with particular quirks and eccentricities that contribute to the overall New York essence in her storytelling. The novels provide a realistic glimpse into life in New York City, offering readers a nuanced understanding of the city's atmosphere and culture. Colwin's works are praised for their ability to transport readers into the heart of New York City, showcasing its diverse community and unique characteristics.
  • The "Vanderbeekers of 141st Street" series is a collection of books that transport readers to Harlem, New York, showcasing the neighborhood's diversity and communal spirit, particularly during the Christmas season. The series, written by Karina Yan Glaser, offers a heartfelt depiction of the community and its vibrant setting, allowing readers to immerse themselves in the atmosphere of New York City. Through the stories of the Vanderbeeker family and their interactions with their neighbors, the books capture the essence of Harlem's rich cultural tapestry and the warmth of its residents. The narratives highlight themes of family, friendship, and community bonds against the backdrop of a dynamic and historically significant neighborhood in New York City.

Counterarguments

  • While hygge is often associated with positivity, some critics argue that it has been commercialized and that the true essence of the concept is lost in its translation and marketing outside of Scandinavia.
  • The idea of hygge as a universal solution to embracing winter may not resonate with everyone, as cultural and individual differences can influence how people experience and cope with the cold season.
  • The influence of "The Year of Living Danishly" on Sarah Butler's view of Scandinavian culture might be seen as limited, considering it is a single source and personal narrative that may not fully represent the diversity of experiences within Denmark or Scandinavia as a whole.
  • Laurie Colwin's depiction of New York City, while praised, might not capture the full complexity and challenges of living in the city, potentially offering a romanticized or narrow view of the Upper East Side.
  • "The Vanderbeekers of 141st Street" series, although it aims to represent Harlem's diversity and community spirit, may not fully encompass the varied and nuanced experiences of all residents in such a historically rich and complex neighborhood.

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Ep 417: Hygge books for cozy winter reading

Scandinavian Winter Culture and Hygge

Sarah Butler celebrates the concept of hygge—a Danish term for creating warmth and contentment—which provides a name for the coziness and joyfulness felt during winter seasons and beyond.

Concepts like peak hygge serve as validating language for readers who already intuitively love cozy winter moments but didn't know there was a name for it

Butler shares her love for the Scandinavian concept of hygge and describes it as "the Danish art of creating joy and coziness in life's everyday moments, whatever the season or time of day." The term gave Butler a language and validation for what she already loved intuitively. Many readers who appreciate what Butler refers to as "peak hygge moments"—being warm indoors with friends, drinking something hot, surrounded by fire and candles, with a storm outside—may now recognize these sensations as part of a cultural appreciation they didn't previously have a word for.

Hygge encompasses both an attitude of embracing the winter season and tangible home décor and lifestyle choices to cultivate coziness

Butler explains that hygge is an attitude as well as a tangible lifestyle choice. To truly embrace winter, she suggests investing in warm, practical clothing, aligning with a Nordic saying that there's no bad weather, only bad clothing. Additionally, Butler talks about making her home cozier on purpose with a fake fireplace with logs, twinkle lights, and candles, curating an atmosphere that exudes a welcoming aura.

The Year of Living Danishly is the book that sparked Sarah's fascination with Scandinavia ...

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Scandinavian Winter Culture and Hygge

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Hygge is a Danish term that embodies a feeling of coziness, contentment, and well-being, particularly during the winter season. It involves creating a warm and inviting atmosphere through simple pleasures like lighting candles, enjoying hot drinks, and spending time with loved ones. Hygge is both a concept and a lifestyle choice that emphasizes the importance of comfort, relaxation, and connection in everyday moments. It has become a popular cultural phenomenon beyond Denmark, resonating with people seeking to embrace a sense of warmth and happiness in their lives.
  • "Peak hygge moments" are instances of ultimate coziness and contentment, often experienced during winter. These moments typically involve being indoors, surrounded by warmth, friends, hot beverages, and comforting ambiance like fire and candles. The term encapsulates the epitome of hygge, representing a state of pure comfort and joy in everyday life. It serves as a descriptor for those special, deeply satisfying moments of relaxation and well-being.
  • To embrace winter through lifestyle choices means adopting practices and habits that enhance coziness and well-being during the colder months. This can involve investing in warm clothing, creating a cozy home environment with elements lik ...

Counterarguments

  • While hygge is celebrated for its coziness and contentment, some may argue that it has become commercialized, with the term being used to market products and lifestyles that may not necessarily align with the original Danish concept.
  • The concept of hygge, while appealing, may not resonate with everyone, as some individuals might prefer more active or social ways of finding joy and contentment rather than cozy solitude or small gatherings.
  • Embracing winter through hygge-inspired décor and clothing can be seen as a privilege, as not everyone has the financial means to invest in home improvements or specialized clothing for the sake of coziness.
  • The fascination with Scandinavian culture, as sparked by books like "The Year of Living Danishly," might lead to an ide ...

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Ep 417: Hygge books for cozy winter reading

Immersing Readers in New York City Atmosphere and Culture

Creating an immersive atmosphere is crucial for a book's setting, and several books manage to authentically capture the unique ambiance of New York City, providing readers with an intimate look at the city's diverse culture and lifestyle.

Laurie Colwin's novels (especially Family Happiness) authentically capture the textures of New York City living

Sarah Butler expresses her admiration for Laurie Colwin's distinctive storytelling, particularly in "Family Happiness." Butler details the narrative of Polly in the Upper East Side, highlighting the tangible presence of New York City in Colwin's work. She appreciates the specific New York flavor in Colwin's characters and settings.

The quirky but fleshed-out side characters feel unlike any Sarah has read before

Butler has high praise for Colwin's side characters, which she finds uniquely humorous and idiosyncratic, adding to the strong sense of New York culture in the novels. She likens these characters to those of Catherine Heinie, noting their specific eccentricities that are quintessentially New York.

The Vanderbeekers of 141st Street series portrays a sense of place in accessible middle grade books enjoyed by adults too

Anne Bogel recommends "The Vanderbeekers of 141st Street" series, suggesting that they provide a vivid portrayal of Harlem, New York City. Sarah, who has heard of the series but not read them, now has a promising prospect for ...

Here’s what you’ll find in our full summary

Registered users get access to the Full Podcast Summary and Additional Materials. It’s easy and free!
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Immersing Readers in New York City Atmosphere and Culture

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • The "Vanderbeekers of 141st Street" series is praised for its ability to appeal to both middle-grade readers and adults due to its engaging storytelling, relatable characters, and themes that resonate with a wide audience. The books strike a balance between being accessible and enjoyable for younger readers while also offering depth and emotional resonance that adults appreciate, making them a versatile and inclusive reading choice for various age groups. The series' portrayal of Harlem, New York City, and its diverse characters adds richness and authenticity to the narrative, further enhancing its appeal across different demographics. By incorporating community activities and a strong sense of place, the books create a vibrant and immersive setting that captivates readers of all ages, fostering a shared reading experience that transcends generational boundaries.
  • Karina Yang-Glaser is a Brooklyn author known for her contributions to children's literature, particularly the "Vanderbeekers of 141st Street" series set in Harlem, New York City. Her writing reflects her love for the city and its diverse communities, capturing the essence of urban life through her storytelling. Yang-Glaser's background as a Brooklyn author adds depth and authenticity to her portrayal of New York City in her works.
  • Laurie Colwin and "The Vanderbeekers" series capture the essence of New Yor ...

Counterarguments

  • While Laurie Colwin's novels may capture the textures of New York City living, some readers might find that her portrayal does not fully encompass the diversity and complexity of the city.
  • The specific New York flavor in Colwin's characters and settings might resonate more with those familiar with the city, potentially alienating readers who cannot relate to the Upper East Side lifestyle.
  • The quirky side characters in Colwin's novels, though praised for their uniqueness, might not be perceived as relatable or realistic by all readers.
  • The comparison of Colwin's characters to Catherine Heinie's might not hold for readers who have different interpretations of Heinie's work or who prefer a different style of character development.
  • "The Vanderbeekers of 141st Street" series, while offering a vivid portrayal of Harlem, may not capture the full spectrum of experiences and perspectives of Harlem residents.
  • The series' accessibility to middle-grade readers and adults might not appeal to those looking for more complex or adult themes in their reading about New York City.
  • The setting of the books around Christmas time might limit the portrayal of Harlem to a specific season, which may not reflect the year-round atmosphere of the neighborhood.
  • Karina Yang-Glaser's affection for the city might lead to a romant ...

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