Kareena Cloe VRC

Missouri VR and Freedom Literation

freedomliterature.com

I am a wife, mother, dog mom, and a lifelong book lover. Reading has always been more than just a hobby for me; it’s been a source of comfort, inspiration, and healing. As an avid reader, I’ve seen firsthand how books can provide clarity during difficult times and serve as a powerful too for self-care. With a background in social work, I have combined my love of literature with my passion for helping others. My husband and I founded Freedom Literature, an independent bookstore dedicated to the healing power of books. I want to spread the word about bibliotherapy and how it can be a meaningful and accessible self-care tool.

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This presentation explores bibliotherapy—the use of literature as a tool for emotional well-being and self-care. Through personal storytelling and interactive activities, participants will discover how books provide comfort, perspective, and healing during life’s challenges. Using The Midnight Library by Matt Haig as a central theme, we will discuss how literature helps process regret, embrace resilience, and foster self-reflection. This session aligns with the Self-Care track by offering practical strategies for integrating therapeutic reading into daily routines, empowering attendees with a meaningful and accessible self-care tool.

• Personal Storytelling: A discussion on my own experience with bibliotherapy, including how The Midnight Library and other books have shaped my self-care journey.

• Reflective Journaling Exercise: A guided reflection on a passage from The Midnight Library, prompting attendees to explore personal growth and second chances.

• Small Group Discussion: Participants will share books that have influenced their emotional well-being and discuss how literature helps process emotions.

• Interactive Book Curation: A collaborative “Books for Reflection & Self-Discovery” list, featuring audience recommendations.

• Take-Home Resource: A Bibliotherapy & Self-Reflection Guide, including personalized book lists, journaling prompts, and strategies for mindful reading.

Learning Objectives: 

1. Recognize the emotional and psychological benefits of bibliotherapy as a self-care tool.

   1. Participants will explore how literature provides comfort, insight, and resilience, using The Midnight Library as a case study.

2. Develop a personalized bibliotherapy plan inspired by themes of resilience and self-reflection.

   1. Attendees will identify books and reading strategies that align with their emotional needs, integrating bibliotherapy into their self-care practices.