Here are 10 finds that I thought might trigger your curiosity this month:

I.

A wonderful quote I’ve come across this month from Indian philosopher Jiddu Krishnamurti on how striving for perfection is impossible:

“Observation without evaluation is the highest form of human intelligence.”

II.

‘The Great Gatsby is a weird one for me. I love how beautiful and glamorous everything seems at first—Gatsby’s parties, the opulent lifestyle, the whole idea of the American Dream. But when you look closer, it’s all kind of hollow. It’s like this shiny exterior, but inside, everything’s empty. It’s a bit of a nightmare.

Gatsby is obsessed with Daisy, but when you really think about it, he’s not in love with her; he’s in love with what she represents—this idea of perfection that he’s built in his mind. Daisy is also not exactly what I’d call a great person. She’s charming, sure, but she’s selfish and shallow in the end, and that’s part of what makes this story so fascinating. It’s not just about love—it’s about how we get caught up in these illusions, thinking that wealth or status or love can fill the emptiness inside.

What strikes me most about this book is how it lays bare the emptiness of it all. The characters are so focused on chasing things that won’t actually make them happy, and in the end, they’re left with nothing. It’s such a raw look at how chasing an ideal can end up destroying you. It’s not the easiest read, but it’s definitely one that sticks with you.’ (3,5 out of 5)

— Valerie

III.

The power of play: why supporting children’s mental health is just as important as physical health.

IV.

This month’s fun fact: Some cats are allergic to humans–while it’s rare, it can happen, and they might exhibit symptoms similar to allergies humans experience.

V.

VI.

Oliver Burkeman. For less anxiety and more life, treat your to-do list like a dinner menu.

VII.

An observation that’s been on my mind this month: Cellphones are not only addictive, they are designed to be.

VIII.

Eckhart Tolle teachings membership.

IX.

X.

In the spotlight this month: