Join us on Wednesday, September 9th as we welcome Katie Benn to the shop for the release of The Alchemy of Melancholy. RSVP is not required, but appreciated. Seats are limited and first-come, first-served. You can have a seat saved for you with the purchase of a book or a $3 sliding scale donation to our program.

About the book

From artist and writer Katie Benn, an immersive, heart-centered, and reflective collection of poetry that will leave you transformed.

This empowering collection of 90 poems and drawings is for anyone who finds themselves overwhelmed with the state of humanity or who has ever felt the call of self-discovery in search of wholeness. Benn’s evocative words and imagery not only mirror the mental and emotional challenges of the individual in the thick of change, but also touch on the collective strain of our times, offering an opportunity for reflection.

The Alchemy of Melancholy embraces descent as an essential aspect of growth and explores the notion of transformation, which is never a straight shot but a winding road. Each poem grants permission to the reader to feel it all—from tantrum to epiphany—to tune in to one’s intuition and allow one’s emotions to be a guide for what is begging to be processed. In this world where all seems to feel simultaneously on edge and up in the air, this collection aims to instill hope and install a seed of intrepid grit.

About the author

Katie Benn is a multidisciplinary artist and writer from San Francisco currently living in southern Oregon. Inspired by all things magical and mysterious, dreamy, silly, and absurd, she explores themes relating to the human condition and her inner world. She is a painter, muralist, illustrator, textile designer, and creator of zines and various art products. Her work can be found in publications such as Bon Appetit, Condé Nast Traveler, Frankie Magazine, Food & Wine, Wired, Los Angeles Magazine, and more. In addition to her creative work, Katie is also a practicing psychic medium and can be found on Instagram (@katie_benn_) where she builds community by sharing her life, artwork, and writing.

About the bookstore

The Booksmith is an independent bookstore located in the Haight Ashbury neighborhood of San Francisco since 1976.

Please note:

• Check-in for the event will begin at 6:45pm.
• Priced ticket holders (Book+seat, Pay it Forward!+seat) will have seats held until 7pm. Arrivals after 7pm will be allowed admission, but seats are not guaranteed.
• General admission ticket holders will be offered seats at check-in on a first-come, first-served basis. May be standing room.
• Space at the door on the day of the event is usually available, but not guaranteed.
• Books will be for sale on the night of the event.
• ADA accessible. Bathrooms on site during event hours.
• Events typically end between 8:30 and 9pm.
• Questions? tickets@booksmith.com