From the bestselling author of Women Rowing North and Reviving Ophelia--a memoir in essays reflecting on radiance, resilience, and the constantly changing nature of reality.

"Radiant essays about how joy and loss often coexist. . . To nudge readers toward building their own 'transcendent narratives, ' Pipher braids in insights from her 25 years as a therapist, citing how acknowledging 'evidence of growth' in one's story, regardless of how big or small, can open up pathways toward healing. Those struggling to overcome darkness will find a guiding light in this incandescent work." --Publishers Weekly, starred review

"For psychologist Pipher, the light found in nature, caring relationships, work, and books has always been the key to happiness. In this beautifully written memoir, her memories of childhood in Nebraska are vivid and poignant. . . . This lovely book teaches gentle lessons on gratitude and celebrating life." -- Booklist, starred review

"A writer discovers herself in a new light... [Pipher] reflects on aging, loneliness, and happiness in a serene, gently told memoir. . . . Sensitive meditations from a 'solar-powered' writer." -- Kirkus Reviews

"In her incandescent new book, Mary Pipher shines a light on what really matters, and in doing so, she reflects our lives back at us with exquisite awareness. I was deeply moved by every page, laughing, crying, always reflecting on her words long after. She has given us all essential lessons on how to balance despair with a sense of wonder and inspires us to lead more light-filled lives." -- Lori Gottlieb, New York Times-bestselling author of MAYBE YOU SHOULD TALK TO SOMEONE

"Mary Pipher's work, always illuminating, is especially so in this dazzling memoir with its focus on light and transcendence. Beautifully written, heartfelt and poignant, the book draws universal lessons from the rich details of Mary's life. Her luminous spirit shines on every page." -- Jean Kilbourne, Senior Scholar, Wellesley Centers for Women, author, cultural theorist, filmmaker

"Mary Pipher transforms her own turning points into life lessons that illuminate purpose, intention, and joy for all her readers." -- Jane Isay, author of UNCONDITIONAL LOVE

"In this memoir in essays, Mary Pipher reflects on her life with profound insight, unflinching honesty, and deep compassion for others-and herself-that will help all of us learn to live a life in light." -- Gretchen Rubin, New York Times-bestselling author of THE HAPPINESS PROJECT

"Mary Pipher is a beacon, a light-bearer, a bodhisattva. Her life stories illuminate ways to be calm, connected, resilient, and joyful, regardless of circumstances. A Life in Light offers hope and direction while nurturing the heart and soul, mind and spirit." -- Lama Surya Das, bestselling author of AWAKENING THE BUDDHA WITHIN

"William Blake says good is only found 'in the minute particulars, ' and Mary Pipher here honors the particular beauty of memory, heartbreaking and heartwarming, with a tender presence and a lifelong opening to the light." -- Jack Kornfield, author of A PATH WITH HEART

"A life story but also a homage to light... A beautifully written, quiet, contemplative memoir that many will enjoy." -- Library Journal
Biographical Note:
Mary Pipher is a psychologist who has earned her the title of "cultural therapist" for her generation. She is the author of four New York Times bestsellers, including Reviving Ophelia, The Shelter of Each Other, Another Country and most recently, Women Rowing North. She lives in Lincoln, Nebraska.