Festival Days is a penetrating collection by Jo Ann Beard that delves into the intersections of life and mortality through a tapestry of essays and fiction. This body of work encapsulates the essence of daily life moments, as well as the precipices where existence teeters between life and death. Noted for the transformative essay 'The Fourth State of Matter,' Beard showcases her narrative prowess in capturing compelling stories from a beloved pet's final chapter to the harrowing experience of an artist engulfed in flames. This collection foregrounds the deliberations on love and mortality within the vibrant backdrop of India and beyond. Beard's crystalline prose elevates ordinary moments into profound observations, rendering Festival Days an essential exploration of humanity.