American screenwriter, director, journalist and celebrated author Nora Ephron has perhaps been the source of some of the most humorous and humanizing narratives from a woman’s perspective in recent decades. 

In her 2006 book, “I Feel Bad About My Neck: And Other Thoughts on Being a Woman,” she uses her usual relatable anecdotes to describe the merging landscape of her aging body.

She describes our bodies as “one big ball of wax” and argues that if you decide to go to a plastic surgeon to iron out your neck, you’ll have to have a facelift.

“According to my dermatologist, the neck starts to go at 43, and that’s that,” she writes matter-of-factly. The neck is where everything starts and ends.

The book’s tone is light-hearted yet poignant, encouraging readers to laugh at life’s inevitable changes as they see them in the mirror while appreciating the wrinkled moments along the way.

“The neck is a dead giveaway. Our faces are lies, and our necks are the truth. You have to cut open a redwood tree to see how old it is, but you wouldn’t have to if it had a neck,” she writes.

The book uses the neck as an anchor that turns the head and connects it to the rest of the body, literally and figuratively.

Ephron first gained prominence as a journalist in the 1960s, writing for publications like Esquire. As a California-raised-turned-New Yorker, she became known for her candid and humorous takes on the adventures and misadventures of everyday life. Even something as mundane as clearing out her purse somehow became an exploration of self-discovery and a deep take on society.

Ephron transitioned to screenwriting, following in the footsteps of both her parents. She found major success with hits including “When Harry Met Sally” (1989), “Sleepless in Seattle” (1993), “You’ve Got Mail” (1998), and, of course, “Julie & Julia,” her final directorial masterpiece before she died in 2012. This intertwined two true stories — the life of iconic cook Julia Child (played by Meryl Streep) and that of Julie Powell (played by Amy Adams), a writer who blogs about her attempts to cook and write about all 524 recipes in Child’s “Mastering the Art of French Cooking” in 365 days.

In “I Feel Bad About My Neck,” Ephron reflects on the physical changes that come with getting older in her signature honest, humorous style and also look at the joys and frustrations of parenting, relationships, getting older and shedding the skin of youth.

It’s a book that stands the test of time. In fact, you could say it ages better than our necks.

“Shdad” by Ibrahim Sarhan is a compelling visual exploration of Tabuk, blending history, culture, and photography into an immersive experience.

Released this year, designated the Year of the Camel in Saudi Arabia, the book’s timing amplifies its impact, showcasing the enduring connection between camels and the people of Tabuk — a connection that has shaped their identity for centuries.

Over three years, Sarhan meticulously documented every corner of Tabuk, capturing the essence of the region through his lens.

The book features a stunning collection of visuals, selected from tens of thousands of photographs, each image illustrating the grandeur of Tabuk’s deserts, mountains, and valleys.

Sarhan’s eye for detail transports readers into the heart of the landscape, revealing not just the physical beauty but the deep cultural stories embedded within it.

At the heart of “Shdad” is the Midian people’s pivotal role in the first historical conflict over camels, a fascinating discovery that bridges the gap between past and present.

Sarhan’s commentary offers context, guiding readers through this ancient narrative and its relevance to the people of Tabuk today.

The book highlights how camel racing and other traditions remain vital to the community, preserving a heritage that continues to thrive in a modernizing world.

What sets “Shdad” apart is its ability to connect readers with the spirit of society in Tabuk. Sarhan captures moments of community and celebration, illustrating how camels remain central to the identity and pride of the region.

His photographs are more than aesthetic captures; they serve as a tribute to the resilience and unity of the people who honor these traditions.

For those in Riyadh, the book can be explored at Alwaal Albari while enjoying a coffee, offering an opportunity to delve into the cultural richness of Tabuk in a relaxed and inviting atmosphere.

Overall, “Shdad” is an essential read for anyone interested in Saudi Arabia’s heritage.

Sarhan’s work not only showcases the stunning landscapes of Tabuk but also highlights the profound cultural significance of camels in the region, making it a visually and culturally enriching experience.