Art is a unique language that resonates deeply with our emotions, offering a pathway to mend the spirit, discover oneself, and attain inner peace. The 41st issue of Books and the City invites readers into the realm of art’s healing power, exploring how lines and colors can become extensions of our bodies and reflections of our subconscious. Through this journey, creation transforms into a ritual of self-dialogue.

In Macao, arts therapy often manifests through drawing, music, dance, and drama. This issue feature “Art Heals Life,” where several art therapists share insights on how various art forms can heal both mind and body for diverse audiences. From drawing and music to theatrical performance, their perspectives aim to inspire new possibilities for perception and expression.

As lifestyles evolve, so does the approach to well-being. The Cultural Affairs Bureau’s “Library e-Learning” program empowers seniors to embrace the digital world, while “Healthy Living Workshops” teach methods for maintaining physical and mental health. The “Magnifying Glass” section highlights summer parent-child study tours, mobile library activities, and two libraries extend opening hours. Additionally, this issue feature book reviewers discussing a range of therapeutic readings, from texts to picture books and contemporary literature, to highlight the healing power of reading.

Through the “Library Handbook,” we will explore the journey of books from acquisition to shelving, demonstrating how the reservation system enhances borrowing convenience. In this issue, “Authors’ Say” introduces the translated work Livro do Desassossego, inviting readers into the world of the poet Fernando Pessoa, allowing them to express emotions and unravel thoughts through his various heteronyms.