Books on Wabi Sabi make an ideal gift for anyone who is new to this concept or is already deeply into it. We prepared a list of 5 best books on Wabi Sabi. And if you are interested in Wabi Sabi-inspired gifts, check out this post.
Wabi Sabi, taken from Japanese wabi, meaning less is more, and sabi, which means attentive melancholy. This term refers to appreciating how things change over time, and finding beauty in things that show signs of aging and impermanence.
Wabi Sabi: Japanese Wisdom for a Perfectly Imperfect Life
Wabi Sabi: Japanese Wisdom for a Perfectly Imperfect Life, written by Beth Kempton is the best reviewed book on Wabi Sabi. It represents the definitive guide to understanding and applying the Japanese concept of Wabi Sabi in all aspects of life. This books inspires, but also teaches practical things, it’s useful for anyone. Additionally, it explores facets of Japanese culture and the author’s time spent in Japan. And, there’s also the beautiful, painting-like, cover.
Hardcover edition is $19 on Amazon.
Wabi Sabi: The Japanese Art of Impermanence - Understanding the Zen Philosophy of Beauty in Simplicity
You can’t go wrong with books published by Tuttle, so this one is a safe choice. Highly praised by reviewers, written by Andrew Juniper, covering topics from history, art, design, spirit – it’s a perfect overview of the Wabi Sabi philosophy. Additionally, it includes beautiful photos as well.
You can get a paperback edition for $11 on Amazon.
Living Wabi Sabi: The True Beauty of Your Life
Written by Taro Gold, this book was featured in the New York Times as one of Tina Turner’s favorite gift books. The writing flows smoothly, evoking a sense of peace and a serene atmosphere. Furthermore, it’s a very beautiful and simple book, but at the same time profound and full of wisdom.
Hardcover edition is available for $9 on Amazon.
Wabi Sabi - The Art of Finding the Beauty of Imperfection: Discover Timeless Japanese Widsom to Cultivate Peace, Joy, and Balance in a Perfectly Imperfect Life
In difference with the previous books, this one includes daily exercises and practices. And this is making it ideal for anyone who wants to start applying Wabi Sabi in their lives. Written by Makoto Saiko, this book covers techniques for integrating Wabi Sabi into daily routines, evening routines, tips on balancing and simplifying life. Additionally, it’s beautifully written, with simple and elegant layout.
Paperback edition is available for $15 on Amazon.
Wabi-Sabi Welcome: Learning to Embrace the Imperfect and Entertain with Thoughtfulness and Ease
This book will enrich anyone’s life with thoughtful ideas from all over the world. Written by Julie Pointer Adams, it includes a lot of tips on creating Wabi Sabi-inspired spaces. And what is especially delightful, it’s that the book is full of beautiful and warm photos, with soothing and neutral colors, that are relaxing to look at. Just a treasure to keep!
You can get a hardcover edition for $18 on Amazon.
