The Self On The Shelf

The Self on the Shelf examines the cultural and philosophical determinants of popular “recovery” books. Greenberg argues that this literature can be read as documents of the prevailing understanding of the self in American society. The construction of the self promoted by recovery literature is seen as a nihilistic one insofar as it denies the significance of what continental philosophy calls the Other. In this sense the self-help books are correct in their assertion that we have lost sight of how to love, but their proposed solution shows up as a recapitulation and strengthening of the conditions that gave rise to this situation in the first place. Greenberg’s critique provides a commentary on the difficulties that face our culture in achieving any sense of meaningful community, and on the way that this problem surfaces in a highly popular discourse.

The Self on the Shelf examines the cultural and philosophical determinants of popular "recovery" books. Greenberg argues that this literature can be read as documents of the prevailing understanding of the self in American society. The construction of the self promoted by recovery literature is seen as a nihilistic one insofar as it denies the significance of what continental philosophy calls the Other. In this sense the self-help books are correct in their assertion that we have lost sight of how to love, but their proposed solution shows up as a recapitulation and strengthening of the conditions that gave rise to this situation in the first place. Greenberg's critique provides a commentary on the difficulties that face our culture in achieving any sense of meaningful community, and on the way that this problem surfaces in a highly popular discourse.

The Book Titled "Self" on the Back of the Shelf is a rhythmic children's story following Michael, the youngest of five children, as he tries to discern who he is in the face of his siblings' personalities. It is an uplifting story with a positive message and heartwarming illustrations.

Self on the Shelf: I'm Worth More is a captivating read that appeals to a wide range of children about how acquiring things does not equate to love or validates their worth. By realizing their self-worth early on, they are more equipped to make smarter choices when it comes to whom they associate with, how they treat others, and how they view themselves. It is the ideal read for classrooms and family time because it is sure to invoke meaningful, heartfelt, and memorable conversations!Gracie Mae is a seven year old who celebrates her eighth birthday in the book. This is during one of the most impressionable times of her life. She gets excited when putting on her Princess dresses, baking cookies with her mother, or spending time with her friends. But nothing excites her more than receiving gifts for birthdays, holidays, and on special occasions. Unlike most eight year olds, she uses her gifts as trophies and stores them on a shelf in her bedroom closet. Over the years, the gifts have subconsciously become a shrine used to validate her self-worth. Until one night in a dream, she has an epiphany and her life is never the same. With a delightful rhythmic beat and stunning illustrations that deliver important life's lessons, Self on the Shelf: I'm Worth More is an ode to the importance of self-worth, respect, and kindness as seen through the eyes of an eight year old. It lends itself to much needed parental, classroom, and group discussions. (For ages 4 to 10)