The Alchemy of Melancholy

by Katie Benn

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.

Genres: Poetry

162 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 1, 2026

About the author

Katie Benn is a multidisciplinary artist and writer born and raised in California, currently living in southern Oregon. Inspired by all things magical and mysterious, dreamy, surreal, and absurd, she explores themes relating to the human condition and her inner world. Katie's editorial illustrations can be found in publications such as Bon Appetit, Condé Nast Traveler, Frankie Magazine, Food & Wine, Wired, Compound Butter Magazine, Los Angeles Magazine, and more. In addition to her creative work, Katie is also a practicing psychic medium.

Reviews

[Nicole Perkins]

Thank you NetGalley and DK Publishing for the ARC of “The Alchemy of Melancholy” by Katie Benn.

I have had the privilege to read a great deal of excellent poetry this year, and Katie Benn’s book “The Alchemy of Melancholy” can claim it’s place among the ranks of winners. So many of these poems spoke to me on a personal level; reading them felt like sharing confidences with a close friend.

Benn writes in a stream-of-consciousness style as though she is transcribing her dreams. Poems such as “A Winnowing,” “In Defense of Strangeness,” and “Something to Say at Any Point in Time” made me pause to consider my goals, asking myself what role I am meant to play. (This is not an exaggeration; these poems literally ask, “Who are we really?” and “What am I doing here?”)

My favorite pieces from this collection are “Emergency Alert Poem” and “Witness.” The former reminds us that we are all parts of a whole, even when we feel alone, and “Witness” tells us that there are wonderful things to be found in this world.

These are poems you read again and again, poems in which you find answers to questions you didn’t know you needed to ask.

[Ann Englert]

This book of poetry is a sometimes difficult book to read. Particularly for anyone who has felt lonely, unsure of a life path or a decision made. However, the further you read, the mood will progressively lighten. The world, is still difficult. But, it begins to soften. Don't think that this is a simple book of poetry. At first glance, the cover and the illustrations belie the seriousness of the writings. This book will require your attention and focus. I enjoy this type of writing. I will, no doubt reread this many times as it's deep and real. I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys this type of honesty and the ability to sometimes poke fun at themselves and life.

[Shay Leszinske]

I love the quality of the cover and pages. Perfect little coffee table book!