Walking Distance by David Hlavsa

Author and educator David Hlavsa, who has ties to the Kingston area, has autographed two copies of his second book, "Walking Distance: Pilgrimage, Parenthood, Grief and Home Repairs," about his walk with his wife on the Camino de Santiago in Spain in a quest to strengthen their marriage in preparation for parenthood. Hlavsa has inscribed the book with the word ¡Ultreya!, the cry of encouragement used by Spanish-speaking pilgrims that means "Onward!" Published in 2015, the memoir also shares Hlavsa's musings and meditations on grieving (for the loss of a stillborn son), parenthood and the home repairs of the title. The book began, in part, as an essay for the "Modern Love" column in The New York Times in 2008. Hlavsa is also the author of "An Actor Rehearses."

Blue Mind by Wallace J. Nichols

A landmark book by marine biologist Wallace J. Nichols on the remarkable effects of water on our health and well-being.

Why are we drawn to the ocean each summer? Why does being near water set our minds and bodies at ease? In BLUE MIND, Wallace J. Nichols revolutionizes how we think about these questions, revealing the remarkable truth about the benefits of being in, on, under, or simply near water. Combining cutting-edge neuroscience with compelling personal stories from top athletes, leading scientists, military veterans, and gifted artists, he shows how proximity to water can improve performance, increase calm, diminish anxiety, and increase professional success.

BLUE MIND not only illustrates the crucial importance of our connection to water-it provides a paradigm shifting "blueprint" for a better life on this Blue Marble we call home.