The Book of Form and Emptiness

One year after the tragic death of his musician father, thirteen-year-old Benny Oh begins to hear voices – not human voices, but the voices of objects: a sneaker, a wilted lettuce, a broken ornament. These objects speak with an emotional tone, from gentle hums to angry clamor. As his mother, Annabelle, descends into a debilitating hoarding problem, the cacophony of voices intensifies, overwhelming Benny until he seeks refuge in the quietude of a public library. There, amidst the well-behaved objects, Benny discovers a new world. He encounters a captivating street artist, a wise homeless philosopher, and most importantly, his very own Book – a sentient narrator of his life. This Book becomes Benny's guide, helping him navigate his grief, understand his unique perception, and discern what truly matters amidst the overwhelming noise of the world and his possessions. Ruth Ozeki weaves a brilliantly inventive tale exploring themes of loss, mental health, consumerism, and the profound connection between us and the things we own, ultimately urging us to find our own voice.