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Book Review: A Mindful Evening by David Dillard-Wright

July 4, 2021 April 23, 2021 Autumn Zenith18 comments
Book Review of A Mindful Evening by David Dillard-Wright

Unlike dawn, the evening is the waning of the powers of the day, the last vestige of the tracing hours, a diagram half erased. What transpired this day now lies in the past, already becoming a memory – a wisp of smoke, a reverberation.

~ David Dillard-Wright, PhD

These words are amongst those that greet you on the first page of the beautiful book we will be exploring in this review post: A Mindful Evening by David Dillard-Wright, PhD.

Book Review of A Mindful Evening by David Dillard-Wright

As extroverted, vivacious, and jubilant a season as summer is, there is a certain magnificent serenity to it as well.

I cherish serenity, peacefulness, calm. They are extraordinarily powerful counterpoints to the stresses and troubles, major traumas and minor worries of life alike.

As an ASMR artist, I strive to cultivate and share soothing tranquility with others around the world – just as I aim to do both here and on Instagram as well.

Honestly, I feel compelled to help foster and support serenity just about everywhere I go, and in most things I do, throughout my life.

I am, as you might guess, deeply drawn to books that put an emphasis on peace and tranquility, mindfulness, relaxation, and meditation or meditative qualities.

Dillard-Wright’s works first crossed my path a few years back. I was instantly captivated by the concept of A Mindful Evening and picked it up with part of an Amazon gift certificate that I received for Christmas back at the tail end of 2017.

This book quickly became a beloved favourite and one that I have both dipped in and out of many times and read cover-to-cover on a number of occasions.

Like a caring, dear friend who always seems to both “get you” and know what to say to soothe you to the core, A Mindful Evening is the sort of title you can turn to and be supported and inspired by today and always.

Book specs

Name: A Mindful Evening: Complete each day a calm mind and open heart

Author: David Dillard-Wright*, PhD

(*See note below)

Page count: 249

Publisher: Adams Media

Binding: Softcover

Important note: In researching this book and its author further while preparing this post, I discovered that David Dillard-Wright is now a transwoman named Devi Dillard-Wright, who uses she/her pronouns.

Therefore, going forward in this post, I will use that name and those pronouns when referring to the author.  

As people who may be searching for reviews of this book will likely do so with the author’s past/dead name, which appears on/in the book itself, I have included it here solely to help facilitate finding this post.

Serenity meets eloquent wordsmithery

A Mindful Evening is an absolutely lovely book that marries over 200 quotes from a vast array of individuals with soulful reflections provided by the author on a broad spectrum of topics pertaining to living a more tranquil life.

(In a nod to this point, I knew as soon as I chose to review this book that I wanted to begin my post for it with a quote from the author themselves.)

Book Review of A Mindful Evening by David Dillard-Wright

Each page is intended to serve as a personal point of meditation, a reflection to ponder and connect with as the day winds down (though you can certainly read each page, or as much of the book as you please, at other points in the day as well).

Dillard-Wright’s intelligence, extensive background in philosophy, religion, and ethics, coupled with what is clearly a highly empathetic soul, shine through in her writings and the way she approaches each topic that she suggests we take a few minutes out of our day to reflect on.

The combination of the author’s own eloquently presented insight coupled with those of the excellent quotes highlighted in this book are an appealing, fantastic combination.

Book Review of A Mindful Evening by David Dillard-Wright

Throughout the book, some of the quotes are presented as lovely images filling whole pages (as in the image above). These are the closest thing to illustrations in this book. Coming across one every so often while reading A Mindful Evening makes the experience of this title all the more enjoyable.

This book is not aimed specifically at witches or Pagans. Indeed, while it has leanings towards Eastern religions and philosophies, including those of Hinduism and Buddhism, no one faith or spiritual path is overriding-ly emphasized in this book.

A Mindful Evening is a title that I would place squarely under the header of being spiritual, and yet, objectively, it is not so heavily spiritually focused as to be unappealing to many who count themselves as atheists or agnostics.

For there are few amongst, irrespective of our personal spiritual journeys who cannot benefit from the mindful, meditative messages that this lovely book houses.

I am a born night owl, often coming most alive as much of the rest of the world tucks into bed. This point was one of the reasons why I was first drawn to A Mindful Evening, and I have no doubt it adds to why I am a firm fan of this inspiring, gentle book.

Book Review of A Mindful Evening by David Dillard-Wright

Indeed, there is much to appreciate about A Mindful Evening and its pervading message of making peace with our days as they draw to a close and focusing on ways to actively live a more mindful and serene life.

Early on in the book, Dillard-Wright suggests that we read one page per evening until the book is complete.

This is a charming approach and one that some people may certainly wish to take the author up on.

Others, like myself, may be more inclined (at least for their first reading of A Mindful Evening) to enjoy it from cover-to-cover.

How A Mindful Evening rates with me

This is a book that I sincerely appreciate. I believe that A Mindful Evening offers substantial value to its readers and that it can be a point of help, guidance, and inspiration to many.

In addition to A Mindful Evening, Dillard-Wright is the author of various other titles, including the companion books A Mindful Morning and A Mindful Day.

I do not own, and have not yet had the pleasure of reading, either of these books (though hope to do so as time goes on). Both titles have been written in a similar vein as their evening-focused peer, offering guidance to help us live more mindful, low-stress lives.

A Mindful Evening made me think and smile, and at times, evoked tears stemming from the stirring of various emotions and memories, as well as the sheer loveliness of this tranquil title.

It is, aptly, a book that I often keep on my nightstand, returning to meditate and reflect on many of the insights and inspirations offered within.

I deeply enjoy and appreciate this book, which I suspect will find similar favour with many of you as well.

We need a great deal more tranquility and calm in this world. We need to be gentler on ourselves and others. We need to see life as a bigger picture, but also embrace the blessing of the present moment. We need to think new thoughts and reflect on the insights that other wise souls have shared with the world.

Book Review of A Mindful Evening by David Dillard-Wright

A Mindful Evening guides and supports readers in doing each of these things.

I am grateful to have encountered this book and thankful to Dillard-Wright for sharing their own wonderful approach to philosophy, wellness, serenity, spirituality, and the human experience itself with all of us.

Now that summer’s heady, gorgeous nights here again, I know that A Mindful Evening will be a book I continue to connect with all throughout the warm twilight hours of this magical season.

A smile fills my heart and face alike as I happily, gratefully give this book a glowing review and bestow my highest rating on it.

Working on a scale of 1 – 5, with five being the highest possible rating, I would give A Mindful Evening 5 stars out of 5.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

If you have read A Mindful Evening or are interested in this book, please let me know in the comments below. I would love to hear your thoughts on this tranquil, philosophy-meets-wellness title. 🧘📖🌙

A Mindful Eveningbook reviewBooksDavid Dillard-WrightDevi Dillard-Wrightmeditationspiritualitywellness
Autumn ZenithJuly 4, 2021
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Autumn Zenith

Autumn Zenith

Old-souled Pagan witch. Empath. Passionate paper crafter. Taphophile. Fall obsessed. Spoonie. Dog mom. Creator of the #MakeHalloween365 hashtag. Dedicated to providing an inclusive space in which to inspire, inform, and support others on their own wonderfully unique spiritual and creative journeys.

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18 Comments

  1. Donna says:
    July 4, 2021 at 12:58 PM

    Sounds like a very good book and good for these times with COVID. Thanks for the review Autumn.

    Reply
    1. Autumn Zenith says:
      July 14, 2021 at 5:34 AM

      Thank you deeply, sweet Donna. It is my heartfelt pleasure. How right you are regarding this book being an especially well-suited fit to these challenging pandemic-filled times.

      🖤 Autumn

      Reply
  2. Ann says:
    July 6, 2021 at 6:54 AM

    Sounds like a wonderfully inpirational book to dip into. I’m loving that opening quote very much indeed. xxx

    Reply
    1. Autumn Zenith says:
      July 14, 2021 at 5:37 AM

      Thank you very much, dear Ann. It really is an inspiring, intelligently written, and highly enjoyable book. I hope to pick up the author’s similar titles, too, which I suspect will be no less wonderful.

      Sunny hugs,
      🖤 Autumn

      Reply
      1. sarita says:
        August 15, 2021 at 1:57 PM

        So grateful to have stumbled upon this review. I am beyond excited to get my hands on a copy ♡

        I have an unrelated question…what is an ASMR artist. I have been coming across this term, ASMR, frequently of late but have been unable to find a meaning.

        Thank you so much for sharing. I look forward to exploring your sites further as they are filled with exciting, intriguing things.
        Blessed be..xx

        Reply
        1. Autumn Zenith says:
          September 19, 2021 at 1:00 AM

          Hi Sarita, thank you very much for your recent comment.

          ASMR – which stands for “Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response” – is the term applied to a spectrum of positive physical and/or psychological responses elicited when an individual hears, sees, experiences, etc certain types of sounds (including, but not limited to, whispered and soft-spoken voices) or activities.

          For some people, these feelings include a physical sensation called “tingles”, which can occur in various parts of the body (the head, neck, and back are among the most common).

          Not everyone experiences tingles from ASMR and those who listen to/watch ASMR content may do so for a broad range of reasons in addition to, or instead of, tingles themselves.

          Some of the most common of which include relaxation, stress and anxiety management, to aid mental and physical health, and to help a person fall asleep.

          The term “ASMR artist” or “ASMRtist” refers to someone who creates ASMR content. Presently, the largest pool of ASMRtists exists on YouTube – though ASMR content can be found on many online platforms as well spanning Tiktok to Twitch (and plenty of others, too).

          If you search on YouTube for “ASMR” you will be greeted with countless thousands of videos and by watching some of them, can get a better sense of what ASMR is and if it’s something that you personally find relaxing/beneficial for yourself.

          I hope that helps to answer your question and welcome any others that you may have.

          Blessings of the Fall Equinox from my heart to yours,
          🖤 Autumn

          Reply
  3. Debi says:
    July 6, 2021 at 9:03 AM

    What a lovely review, Autumn. This sounds like a book that I will add to my reading list-soon. I love that it appeals to all spiritual paths.
    Also, I’m looking forward to trying some of the meditations in hopes that they may help me “power down” at night.
    Thank you, again!
    Debi

    Reply
    1. Autumn Zenith says:
      July 14, 2021 at 6:49 AM

      Thank you sweetly, my very dear friend. I suspect that you will deeply enjoy and connect with this serene book as well.

      If you enjoy listening to guided meditations and are not already using them, I highly recommend the (meditation) apps Headspace and Calm for this purpose. (Calm is free, whereas headspace comes with a monthly charge beyond the initial free trial period.)

      As well, there are many wonderful (free) guided meditations on YouTube as well, both within and outside of the ASMR sphere.

      I’m getting sleepy just thinking about them. 😄

      🖤 Autumn

      Reply
  4. Pauline says:
    July 6, 2021 at 11:21 PM

    It sounds like a wonderful book Autumn, I’m glad that you enjoyed it so much, your review is detailed and informative as always.
    Pauline – Crafting with Cotnob
    x

    Reply
    1. Autumn Zenith says:
      July 14, 2021 at 6:58 AM

      What a wonderfully kind comment, Pauline. Thank you very much, my sweet friend.

      This book is a serene joy. It is a title that I had been champing at the bit to review here for a while now – especially in the midst of the ongoing stress and challenges of the pandemic, which brings with it all the more need for tranquillity and stability in our lives.

      🖤 Autumn

      Reply
  5. Ivana Split says:
    July 17, 2021 at 2:46 AM

    A Mindful Evening by David Dillard Wright sounds like a wonderful book. We all need books that can help us relax right now. Thank you for your book review.

    Reply
    1. Autumn Zenith says:
      August 12, 2021 at 2:17 PM

      Wonderfully put, dear Ivana. How right you are. As this year has been quite a bear both globally and personally, I’ve often found myself drawn to serene, introspective titles like A Mindful Evening all the more.

      Anything (safe) we can do to help quell stress and worry right now is extra vital. This beautiful, insightful book helps me on that front and is one I know I’ll continue to revisit time and time again both this year and beyond.

      Thank you very much for your lovely words. May you have a tranquil, safe, and very happy August.

      🖤 Autumn

      Reply
  6. Jennifer Orsini says:
    July 18, 2021 at 12:20 PM

    Your book review really appealed to me, and I was able to find nice used copies online and bought this book and the Morning book by the author–they arrived quickly and I am so happy your made this suggestion, thank you!

    Reply
    1. Autumn Zenith says:
      August 12, 2021 at 2:22 PM

      What an awesome and very touching comment, dear Jennifer. I’m delighted to know that you were inspired to purchase some of this author’s titles based on this book review post.

      It is my heartfelt pleasure. Dillard Wright’s related titles are high up on my reading wishlist as well.

      Please don’t hesitate to share your thoughts on these books with me anytime. I’d love to hear your take(s) on them as well.

      Many hugs & the serenest of summertime reading wishes,
      🖤 Autumn

      Reply
  7. Goth Gardener says:
    August 5, 2021 at 6:48 AM

    I adore books like this and just added this to my list to purchase.

    Reply
    1. Autumn Zenith says:
      August 12, 2021 at 2:25 PM

      That’s awesome, my dear friend. Thank you very much for your encouraging feedback. I’m tickled pink to know that this book review resonated with you and really hope that you enjoy “A Mindful Evening”, if you pick up (or borrow) a copy.

      As this stressful year has marched ever onward, I’ve returned time and time again to Dillard-Wright’s writing, finding comfort, support, hope, and inspiration in their soulful take on the human experience.

      Many hugs & heartfelt thanks for all of your recent blog comments,
      🖤 Autumn

      Reply
  8. Willow says:
    August 14, 2021 at 3:43 PM

    This book is beautiful and looks to be an awesome read. I love that you went out of your way to use the author’s correct pronouns. That brought such a big smile to my face. You are such a thoughtful and caring soul, my friend. I hope that you and your husband are doing well. Sending you both much love.

    Reply
    1. Autumn Zenith says:
      August 24, 2021 at 9:02 AM

      Thank you deeply, dearest Willow. As are you, my conscientious and very caring friend. It is extremely important to me that one’s preferred pronouns (and name) are used whenever possible. Doing shows respect and just feels like the most natural thing to me.

      This book really is a stellar, supportive and inspiring read. I’ve continued to dip into it multiple times this summer – including over the past month, as we’ve been living under the stress of huge local wildfires potentially reaching our neighbourhood. Knock wood and thank the universe, that hasn’t happened yet, but we have been put on evacuation alert twice throughout August (for a few days apiece) and continue to live with the risk of full-on evacuation looming near. We’re as prepared for such as one realistically can be and will tackle whatever life throws our way.

      I really hope to pick up some of the author’s other titles and sense they’ll be every bit as spiritually and psychologically supportive.

      Thank you again, my sweet friend. I truly appreciate your blog comments throughout the year.

      Sunny hugs & joyful late August blessings,
      🖤 Autumn

      Reply

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I’m Autumn Zenith, a Pagan witch + empath with a serious passion for paper crafting, nature, vintage, photography, and anything fall time related.

I like to think of myself as part Martha Stewart, part Morticia Addams.

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