Over the fall semester of 2025, The Teaching Press has been hard at work with a multitude of projects, including our newest title, Patinas of Life, written by Patrick Wood. This book is an exploration of human patinas: the weathering of choice, the marks of relationship, the tarnish of grief, the shine of discovery. These reflections invite you to see your own life’s surface not as flawed, but as uniquely beautiful—shaped by time, trial, and transformation. This book is now on sale wherever books are sold.
Patinas of Life was the second Teaching Press book designed by Caleigh Cleary, who spoke to us in 2024 about her design process. Responsible for the placement and perfection of all the words of this book were the Patinas of Life editorial team: Chief Copy Editor Tiffany Jablonowski and Developmental Editor Chloe Smith, who comment on their experiences here.
What drew you in wanting to work on the Patinas of Life project specifically?
Tiffany: Patinas of Life is a reminder to stop and appreciate the journey of life. It is a moment of mind meditation throughout hectic days. The book can be read and processed in bits and pieces, which is great for when life feels busy.
Chloe: When I first heard the idea for Patinas of Life, I thought it was too good of an opportunity to pass up working on this book. With the chaos I experienced this year, I cherished being able to reflect on my life while editing this book. The stories inside Patinas of Life are some that will live with me forever, and I’m extremely grateful for the experience.
What has this experience taught you/what will you take away from this internship?
Tiffany: This experience has taught me the value of a team. We all had our roles in producing the book, but the support and help offered was phenomenal. Never be scared to ask for help or clarity.
Chloe: I’ve learned that editing and publishing a book is no easy feat. You need a reliable and supportive team to get everything done. I could’ve never done what I had without the help of my team, and I loved the experience of learning what goes into publishing books.
Patinas of Life by Patrick Wood is now on sale wherever books are sold.