The Book of Qualities: our own emotions as a cast of characters
by J. Ruth Gendler © 1988 -- A wonderfully wry and whimsical view of ourselves.

The Book of Qualities is a wonderfully wry and whimsical view of ourselves, complete with pencil drawings to spark the imagination. Organized with 99 qualities (1/short chapter), each quality is written as though it was a particular character in a book or movie talking about itself -- each bringing its own amazing insights.

For example:

"Many people mistrust pleasure. In school we learned she was dangerous and I was sure she would distract me from my work."

"Worry etches lines on people's foreheads when they are not paying attention."

"Fear is a master of disguises and illusions."

As you read though this short book, you see all these qualities of ourselves come alive as individuals. Many of the insights include hidden solutions or ideas on how to deal with the quality.

For example:

"Anxiety does not trust anyone, not even his friends, worry, terry, doubt, and panic. ... it takes cunning to get rid of him, a combination of anger, humor and self-respect. A bath helps too. He does not like to get wet."

"Power [as in personal power] makes you a coat that you grow into if you keep wearing it. A becoming garment just fit right for you."

Check out this amazing, insightful work of art and wit.