Anatheum by D.M. Ross

A few words can say a great deal, as D.M. Ross masterfully proves in his thoughtful collection of wise mantras, Anatheum, a unique work of self-help aimed at a young adult audience. Though it can be read in a single sitting, this is the type of pocket-sized book that will be continually reopened for a dose of guidance.

A meditative, thought-provoking read, some of these insights have been heard and spoken aloud many times before, while others are unique turns of phrase – simple, yet strikingly profound. “There are no answers, only decisions to be made” and “Thoughts come alive in the conversations you have about them” may seem simplistic on the surface, but like so many mantras, they provide a solid foundation upon which more growth can occur, and may certainly be new fodder for a younger audience.

The formatting of the book is sparse and straightforward, detracting as little as possible from the four succinct pearls of wisdom on each page. There are four subtly denoted sections, but no clear thematic distinctions, which could be improved. Additionally, the brevity of the book is notable; the author clearly has a font of insight to draw from, but only offers a few dozen pages of text for those seeking advice. Obviously, teens may have a lower attention span, but the book could go even further in its scope.

Perhaps a future edition will have a few more sections added to each page, but until then, this remains an unassuming but powerfully worded book of personal reflection.