For Small Creatures Such as We by Sasha Sagan

"Sasha Sagan was raised by secular parents, the astronomer Carl Sagan and the writer and producer Ann Druyan. They taught her that the natural world and vast cosmos are full of profound beauty, that science reveals truths more wondrous than any myth or fable.

When Sagan herself became a mother, she began her own hunt for the natural phenomena behind our most treasured occasions--from births to deaths, holidays to weddings, anniversaries, and more--growing these roots into a new set of rituals for her young daughter that honor the joy and significance of each experience without relying on religious framework." (Goodreads.com)

Although my first impression of this book was that Sasha Sagan was going to provide alternative ways (in list form) to celebrate special occasions, it was actually more of an historical exploration of other cultures' traditions and rituals. Sagan also related her own experiences growing up and how her family has chosen to celebrate based on their backgrounds. Since the author's father is the scientist, Carl Sagan, a lot of her beliefs come from nature and science rather than religion. For me it is always interesting to read about other cultures and faiths because it is easy to get stuck in the mindset that everyone celebrates the same way but this is not true at all. I would recommend this book to people who enjoy memoirs and learning about other cultures.

Kelsey Fitzgerald
Library Assistant

Available at the Langley Adams Library