Wellspring Writing Workshops
Books
©2026 Julie Mariouw. All Rights Reserved
Part memoir, part nature writing, part spiritual journey. This book illustrates the transformational healing process that occurs when creativity is combined with nature. These essays mix the ordinary with the extraordinary, producing entertaining and enlightening stories.
Publication Date: Mar 25, 2027
SAMPLE ESSAY from the book: Lessons from a Turtle on Writing and the Body
LAUNCH PARTY - You are invited!
Sat, Mar 27, 2027, 1 - 4pm Crazy Wisdom Bookstore 114 S. Main, Ann Arbor
“I love these pieces! They are all entertaining and delightful.”
-—Cyndi Lieske
“Who wouldn’t want to dance inside a tree?”
—-Judy Ross
“Magical realism…has me wanting to climb a tree right about now. Lovely!”
—Renee Baumunk
“I love your ability to slow down and notice the messengers who come to us…Thank you for sharing this experience!” —Leigh Provost
“There was intrigue, suspense, and beauty in the telling.”
—Marijo Grogan
“Definitely makes me want to read more.”
—Marsi Parker Darwin
“Thank you for the reminder that we aren’t ‘stuck’ in our shells—we are just receiving the nutrition we need to eventually break through. Looking forward to more of your forest-given gifts.” —Alice Vargat
“What a wonderful story, Julie. The pines are magical.”
—Diane Laboda
“Amazing!”
—Amy Probst
TABLE OF CONTENTS
(To read full Table of Contents click here)
PART ONE: 2024
TREE OF PEACE
An entrance and an explanation.
THE POWER OF BLUEBIRDS AND WRITING
Baby bluebirds teach me to combine nature and writing.
LESSONS FROM A TURTLE ON WRITING AND THE BODY
I watch a snapping turtle give birth. One of her lessons: don’t take shortcuts—slow and steady wins the race.
LEARNING TO WRITE IN THE FOREST
The forest teaches me to write—braiding is the right way, one story at a time.
MYSTERIOUS HEALER IN THE FOREST
A healer arrives in the forest and shows me a story that I carry in my leg
FIRST AID IN A FOXHOLE
My slasher-editor gets healed in a foxhole.
WHAT INVASIVE VINES HAVE TAUGHT ME ABOUT TOXIC SHAME
Invasive vines are a lot like toxic childhood shame—they don’t have your best interests at heart.
HOW TO BREAK OUT OF A CHRYSALIS
Forest creatures work together to help me break free from childhood defenses.
