The Book Tour Brought Me Home

This is Body Grief Took Chicago

Hi friends,

I just got back from Chicago where I had not one but two incredibly special book tour events for This is Body Grief ; and I’ve been holding it all in my heart ever since. I wanted to take a moment to reflect and share some of the magic with you.

Stop Three: Anderson’s Bookshop in Downers Grove

This event felt like the reunion of all reunions. It was totally sold out (!!) and overflowing with love. I saw people from every chapter of my life; from preschool to high school, and even folks from my childhood dentist’s office. One of my best friends from Charleston flew up to be there. My grandma was front row, beaming with pride, and she brought her girlfriends along — one of whom is an avid reader of this newsletter (Hi Kay!).

This was an incredibly vulnerable event for me. Many people in the room had seen me through every stage I touched on in the book and beyond. To speak about body grief, loss, growth, and healing in front of that kind of crowd… it was profound.

I also finally met longtime internet friends and supporters in person for the first time. I hugged readers I’d never met before but who have been following this journey so closely. I met therapists and psychologists curious about the book’s impact in their work. The room was buzzing with energy and care.

And the cherry on top? My sister Tess stepped in as the Emcee and did a beautiful job guiding the conversation. It was such a full-circle moment ; a night that marked the third event of the book tour and celebrated one full month of This is Body Grief out in the world. Thank you, Anderson’s Bookshop in Downers Grove — I’ll never forget it.

Stop Four: Three Avenues Bookshop

Our fourth stop had a totally different (and equally magical) vibe. It was a larger crowd than I expected, filled with new faces and heartfelt connection. That’s one of my favorite parts about doing this tour; each night feels completely unique, and the conversations take on a life of their own.

Because Body Grief is such a vast and universal experience, every event unlocks different angles, stories, and emotions. This night in particular was incredibly emotional because so many people opened up to me about their own journeys. Some had already read the book, others were just beginning, but all came ready to connect.

We cried. We laughed. We jammed out to my This is Body Grief playlist while mingling around the store. It felt like a gathering of kindreds.

Moments with My Family

I’m also deeply grateful for the time I got to spend at home. Between events, I soaked in slow mornings and cozy nights with my parents. We spent hours by the backyard fire table, huddled under blankets, while my mom happily crafted with a dog (or two) on her lap.

And, something I’m so excited to share, my dad has been teaching me how to incorporate his painting techniques into my own practice. If you’ve read This is Body Grief, you know how much painting, and my dad, are interwoven into my healing. This next evolution feels so aligned, and I can’t wait to show you what we’re dreaming up.

A Huge Pinch Me Moment...

Did you catch it?! I was recently featured in Maria Shriver’s The Sunday Paper — a surreal and deeply affirming moment for me and this book. If you missed it, You can read it here!

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Get This is Body Grief right here. Your support means the world.

With Gratitude,

Jayne