A Possession Obsession: What We Cherish and Why

This coffee table book by Kosann, founder of her own fine jewelry and home accessory brand, will fetch a glance and maybe even a look-through, but not much more. The gorgeous photographic aesthetic evokes transcendence, and the copy—Q&As with selected personalities—weaves a colorful narrative. Kosann highlights the objects people possess, the reasons they cherish them, and the ways in which these objects reveal the owners’ personal stories. Still, it doesn’t take long for the reader to realize that those who are highlighted are cultural elites, including many fashion designers, interior decorators, stylists working for fashion magazines, and even Judge Judy. This lack of variety is reinforced by Kosann’s generic interview style, which consists of up to nine form questions, including “What’s the best part of your day?” and “Fill in the blank: Whatever I look at _____ I can’t help but smile.” The result is not enough to draw the average reader in. [em](Nov.) [/em]