Book Review: In the Time of Coronavirus

Reviewed by Jadidsa Perez

A beautiful time capsule of a soul-stirring pandemic

Uncertainty, fear, and distance were at an all time high during the COVID-19 pandemic. Recognizing the need for compassion and generosity, author and psychotherapist Janet Zinn started writing. 

From the foggy early moments of the pandemic to the monotonous months further in, this book details Zinn’s personal experiences—like how things have changed from her past—with insightful self-care tips and discussions on the landscape of this emotionally wrought time. 

It’s an open, raw look into Zinn’s journey during the pandemic, one that offers readers companionship. Despite the solitude of COVID, In the Time of Coronavirus is like a warm, comforting hug that reminds the reader that they have persevered. 

It’s delightful how fun and easy it is to follow these self-care tips. They’re included in every chapter and go well in conjunction with that chapter’s content. In one case, Zinn writes about how carefree her younger self used to be. Now as an adult, she’s filling up her to-do list without any breaks and becomes envious of her past freedom. But she reminds the reader, like she needs to remind herself, to play, dance, and throw out old spices. As pedestrian as it may initially seem, that advice really resonated with me. I hadn’t considered play as a way to take care of myself, but Zinn’s push for reconnecting with one’s inner child proved to be quite healing. 

Zinn is so honest with herself and with her readers. She never shies away from showing her unsavory moments, such as when she was frustrated that her husband got her a different spoon. She admits the pettiness. This book benefits from the authenticity of her experience. Readers who acted similarly but felt alone in their grief can find solace in Zinn’s writing. As Zinn says, “I am acutely aware of the luxury of getting angry at those we love.” 

The chapters also come with photographs. They’re all in grayscale and usually center on one subject or an empty, scenic place. It supplements the writing nicely and offers a look into the pandemic from Zinn’s lens. These photographs and events are preserved elegantly.

Some might want to forget and move on from the pandemic. That’s fine! This book is for those who are ready to heal. It’s an inspirational and thoughtful resource for that still-festering piece of us. It is packed with benevolent advice and provides a great way to cope with the things outside of your control. 

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