creative potential

The 10 Best Books on Creativity to Unleash Your Inner Genius

Creativity is a powerful force, shaping our world through innovation, problem-solving, and personal expression. It has led to breakthroughs in fields as diverse as science, technology, art, and business. But how can we tap into this wellspring of imagination and originality within ourselves? One effective method is through reading, which can stimulate our creative minds and offer fresh perspectives. This post aims to guide you on a journey of creative discovery by recommending some of the best books on creativity.

These books provide not only inspiration but also practical tips and strategies to unlock your creative potential. Whether you’re an artist seeking new sources of inspiration, a professional looking for innovative solutions, or someone who simply wants to enrich their daily life with more creative thinking, these books offer valuable insights to help you on your creative journey.

The Power of Creativity

best books on creativity reddit

Creativity stands as a pillar among the fundamental skills that will remain resilient in the face of automation. It’s a common misconception to view creativity as an inherent personality trait, reserved only for the chosen few. On the contrary, creativity is a skill and a habit that can be cultivated by anyone, given the right mindset and tools.

Every day, we employ creativity in various forms, often without realizing it. From devising unique ways to tackle a mundane task to brainstorming solutions for complex problems, creativity is a constant companion in our lives.

The role of creativity extends far beyond personal expression and problem-solving. It serves as the lifeblood of innovation, powering advancements in diverse fields. Whether it’s the scientific breakthroughs that redefine our understanding of the universe, technological innovations that reshape our lifestyles, artistic expressions that challenge conventional perspectives, or entrepreneurial ventures that disrupt market norms, creativity is the driving force behind these revolutions.

The Power of Creativity: Real-World Breakthroughs

best books on creativity reddit

Creativity is not just about producing art or writing a novel. It’s a fundamental skill that plays a crucial role in problem-solving, innovation, and personal expression. To truly appreciate the transformative power of creativity, let’s explore some real-world examples where creative thinking has led to significant breakthroughs.

Business Innovation Through Knowledge Networks  In the realm of business, creativity often takes the form of innovative organizational strategies. One such strategy is the concept of organizing knowledge in networks. This approach allows for repeated exposure to all your knowledge assets and associative recall with them, leading to the ability to make connections between seemingly unrelated ideas. This has been instrumental in sparking innovative ideas and solutions in various industries.

Technological Advances with AI  The field of technology has also seen its fair share of creative breakthroughs. A notable example is the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to automate repetitive tasks, generate fresh ideas, and produce content on par with human-made creations. I

Artistic Inspiration from Unexpected Places  In the world of art, creativity often emerges when we make links across domains that have nothing to do with each other. This cross-pollination of ideas has led to breakthroughs in art, where inspiration often comes from unexpected places.

Personal Development Through Creative Problem-Solving  Finally, creativity plays a significant role in personal development. Understanding personal points of leverage and potential points of leverage for preventing problems can be a creative way to turn the odds in your favor in various areas of life and business.

In conclusion, creativity is a powerful force that can lead to breakthroughs in various fields. By fostering our creative thinking, we can come up with innovative solutions, make unexpected connections, and even transform our personal lives.

Why Read Books on Creativity

best books on creativity

Reading books about creativity might initially seem paradoxical. After all, isn’t creativity about originality and spontaneity rather than learning from others? However, this perspective overlooks the value of diverse inputs in sparking creativity. By reading, you expose yourself to a myriad of ideas, perspectives, and experiences that can ignite your own creative insights.

The books recommended in this list are particularly valuable because they not only inspire but also offer practical guidance. They share strategies, techniques, and insights from successful creatives that you can apply in your own creative endeavors. Remember, the key is not just to read these books, but to actively integrate their ideas into your own creative process.

Best Books on Creativity for Bringing Ideas to Life

best books on creativity reddit

Making Ideas Happen

Making Ideas Happen by Scott Belsky is a book that’s been a game-changer for me. It’s a must-read for all you creatives out there who have a head full of ideas but struggle to bring them to life. The real challenge often isn’t a shortage of ideas, but rather a lack of effective organizational habits and the ability to execute. Belsky offers a solution to this with the Action Method.

The Action Method is built on the idea that every task, whether it’s planning a vacation or launching a product, can be seen as a project. Each project is made up of three main components: Action Steps, References, and Backburner Items. Action Steps are specific, concrete tasks that push the project forward. References are any materials or discussions related to the project that you might need to refer back to, and Backburner Items are tasks or ideas that aren’t immediately actionable but could be in the future.

The book drives home the point that your organizational habits and your ability to execute are just as important, if not more so, than your ideas. This makes “Making Ideas Happen” a crucial read for anyone looking to level up their creative process and effectively turn their ideas into reality. It’s a testament to the power of the Action Method and the importance of execution in the creative process.

Little Bets

Little Bets: How Breakthrough Ideas Emerge from Small Discoverie by Peter Sims is a book that really resonates with me. It introduces a fresh way to approach creative thinking and problem-solving, centered around the concept of ‘little bets’. These are small, manageable experiments that let you test an idea before you go all in.

This isn’t just theory, it’s a strategy used by successful creators and innovators, from comedian Chris Rock to the creative wizards at Pixar. Here’s the kicker, instead of betting the farm on a single, unproven idea, ‘little bets’ let you learn, iterate, and refine your idea based on real-world feedback. This way, you’re not just minimizing the risk of failure, but you’re also shifting your focus from what you’ve lost to what you’ve learned.

By embracing this approach, you’re fostering a mindset of experimentation and discovery, and that’s where the real breakthroughs happen. And here’s a little secret: my entire career, including the Unmistakable Creative podcast, started as a series of these ‘little bets’. It’s a testament to the power of starting small, learning as you go, and being open to the journey. This philosophy has been a guiding light in my own creative process.

Deep Wor by Cal Newport is a book that has had a profound impact on my approach to creativity. It’s a must-read for anyone looking to take their creativity to the next level. The book argues that great creative work isn’t the result of sporadic bursts of inspiration, but rather the outcome of dedicated time, intense focus, and disciplined effort, a concept Newport calls ‘deep work’.

This book challenges the modern-day tendency towards multitasking and constant connectivity, arguing that they are detrimental to producing high-quality creative output. Newport presents compelling arguments on how deep work leads to the creation of substantial value, and how stepping back from social media can reveal the true worth of your content. He further discusses the importance of attention as a conduit to learning and the role of flow states in achieving deep work.

Newport also addresses the issue of information overload, explaining that it can trap us in a state of constant crisis, making us less productive and hindering our cognitive abilities. “Deep Work” is an invaluable guide for anyone seeking to unlock their creative potential by mastering the skill of deep work. It’s a testament to the power of focused attention and the importance of disconnecting in the creative process.

Best Books on Creativity for Organizing Your Ideas

best books on creativity reddit

The root cause of unproductive knwledge work is  is the way that we organize and manage information. This becomes a major bottleneck to doing creative work. The three books below are the antidote to the problems of information overload and disorganization.

Building a Second Brain

Building a Second Brain by Tiago Forte is a book that has revolutionized the way I manage and organize information. It introduces the Second Brain Methodology, a system designed to streamline your digital life, reduce cognitive load, and enhance creative output.

The methodology revolves around the concept of PARA, an acronym for Projects, Areas, Resources, and Archives. This structure is applied across all your digital tools, including note-taking apps, inboxes, and file storage solutions. This systematic approach to organizing information facilitates the creation of knowledge assets, which can be effectively utilized to overcome creative blocks.

What sets this book apart is its emphasis on designing a digital environment that fosters the behavior you desire. Forte underscores that the ultimate purpose of building a second brain is not mere information storage, but fostering a personal network of knowledge that can aid in creative thinking and problem-solving. “Building a Second Brain” is an essential read for anyone seeking to unlock their creative potential by mastering the skill of effective information management.

The Bullet Journal Method

The Bullet Journal Method by Ryder Carroll is a book I’ve often recommended, and everyone who has implemented its concepts has marveled, “I don’t know how I ever lived without this.” This method simplifies the process of organizing our lives, providing a structured yet flexible system for managing tasks, events, and notes.

The methodology involves three key elements: the daily log, the future log, and collections. The daily log, referred to as the workhorse of the journal, is where you capture tasks with bullets, notes with dashes, and events with circles. The future log is a place for anticipating and planning for upcoming tasks or events. Collections are thematic groupings of related information.

The beauty of the bullet journal method lies in its constraints. Unlike a digital to-do list app, you’re limited to the physical bounds of a page, which naturally forces you to prioritize. By taking just 15 minutes a day to observe, record, and review what’s happening in your life, you create order out of chaos. This method not only fosters productivity but also sparks creativity, proving that constraints can indeed breed innovation.

The Extended Mind

The Extended Mind by Annie Murphy Paul is a fascinating exploration of the science behind the concept of externalizing, a key principle in “Building a Second Brain”. The book delves into the benefits of externalizing knowledge and how it can enhance our cognitive abilities.

One of the key benefits of externalizing knowledge, as Paul points out, is that it provides cues that trigger memories and insights. By externalizing our knowledge, we create tangible reminders of our ideas and thoughts, which stimulate our memory and help us recall and build upon these ideas, leading to deeper insights and more innovative thinking.

Furthermore, externalizing knowledge makes it accessible. Instead of having our ideas and information locked away in our minds, externalization brings them into the open where they can be easily accessed and used. This can significantly improve efficiency and productivity, particularly in professional settings.

Another advantage of externalizing knowledge is that it prevents us from wasting cognitive capacity. Our brains have a limited amount of cognitive resources, and by externalizing knowledge, we free up these resources for other tasks. This can enhance our ability to focus and think creatively, further boosting our productivity and problem-solving capabilities.

Finally, externalizing knowledge allows us to take it in new directions. Once our ideas and information are out in the open, we can explore them from different angles, combine them in novel ways, and generate innovative solutions. This can be particularly useful in creative pursuits, where the ability to see things from different perspectives and make unique connections is crucial.

In conclusion, “The Extended Mind” provides a strong scientific foundation for the practices outlined in “Building a Second Brain”. By understanding and applying the principles in these books, we can enhance our creativity, improve our productivity, and unlock our full potential.

Best Books on Creativity for Inspiration and Motivation

best books on creativity reddit

Still Writing: Perils and Pleasures of a Creative Life

Still Writing: The Perils and Pleasures of a Creative Life by Dani Shapiro is a compelling exploration of the creative journey. Part memoir, part instructional guide, it’s a book that every creative person should have on their shelf.

Shapiro beautifully articulates the essence of the creative life: “The writing life requires courage, patience, persistence, empathy, openness, and the ability to deal with rejection. It requires the willingness to be alone with oneself. To be gentle with oneself. To look at the world without blinders on. To observe and withstand what one sees.”

This book is a testament to the resilience and dedication required in any creative field. It’s the kind of book that you can pick up, read a passage from, and find inspiration. Whether you’re a seasoned writer or just starting out, “Still Writing” offers valuable insights into the creative process and the journey of bringing your ideas to life.

Perennial Seller

Perennial Seller by Ryan Holiday is a must-read for anyone seeking to create work that stands the test of time. Holiday, a prolific author with multiple New York Times Best-Sellers to his name, delves into the concept of a ‘perennial seller’ – a work that, regardless of its initial reception, grows stronger over time and continues to resonate with audiences long after its creation.

Holiday emphasizes that creating a perennial seller is not about chasing immediate gratification or measuring success by fleeting metrics. Instead, it’s about focusing on the quality and substance of the work. He argues that while promotion can help a work be heard, it’s the creative process and the value the work brings that truly make it great.

This book encourages creators to ask critical questions about their work, such as ‘What does this teach?’, ‘What does this solve?’, ‘How am I entertaining?’, ‘What am I giving?’, ‘What are we offering?’, and ‘What are we sharing?’. These questions help to ensure the work adds value to the world, aligns with the creator’s purpose, and is capable of standing the test of time.

“Perennial Seller” is more than just a book on creativity. It provides practical guidance on creating work that is not only meaningful but also enduring. It’s a testament to Holiday’s understanding of the creative process and his commitment to creating work that continues to inspire and resonate, making it a valuable addition to any creator’s library.

The Icarus Deception

The Icarus Deception by Seth Godin is a book that has had a profound impact on me. It was the catalyst that inspired me to stop waiting for a publisher’s approval and take the leap to self-publish “The Art of Being Unmistakable,” which went on to become a Wall-Street Journal Best-Seller. This book challenged my conventional thinking and ignited a spark within me to embrace my creativity and chart my own path.

Godin’s book is filled with thought-provoking insights. He writes, “Our cultural instinct is to wait to get picked.” This line resonates deeply, highlighting the societal pressure to conform and wait for external validation. But Godin urges us to break free from this mindset and take control of our creative journey.

He further emphasizes the importance of seeing the world through the eyes of an artist, stating, “If you’re not seeing the world through the eyes of an artist, you’ll never truly embrace the revolution that’s going on around you.” This perspective shift is crucial for anyone looking to make a meaningful impact in their field.

Godin also warns against the dangers of prioritizing instant feedback over long-term vision: “If you’ve sacrificed your long-term compass at the altar of instant feedback, you might enjoy some short-term achievement, but you’ve given up your grit.” This insight underscores the importance of staying true to your vision, even when immediate results are not forthcoming.

Finally, Godin challenges us to dare more and aim higher: “We think we’re being safe and smart and conservative and avoiding flying too close to the sun. But all the generator is doing is pushing us closer and closer to the waves, so that we’re flying too low, daring too little, and blowing our best chance ever to matter.” This powerful metaphor serves as a call to action for all creators to push their boundaries and strive for greatness.

The Icarus Deceptio is more than just a book; it’s a manifesto for the creative revolution. It’s a call to reject the status quo, embrace our unique talents, and create work that truly matters. It’s a book that has not only inspired you, Srinivas, but countless others to take control of their creative journey and make their mark on the world.

Your Brain on Art

Your Brain on Art is a book that has significantly shifted my perspective on creativity and its value. Many people, including myself at times, have fallen into the trap of believing that art is only worthwhile if it reaches millions or can be monetized. However, this book, with its focus on the neuroscience of creativity, has shown me that the act of creating and expressing creativity has profound physical and mental health benefits. Seeing the tangible, scientific evidence of how our brains light up during the creative process has underscored for me that the value of art goes far beyond its commercial success or widespread recognition. It’s about personal growth, self-expression, and the pure joy of creation.

The best books on creativity don’t just inspire you, they enable you to convert knowlegdge into action. I chose these books for this article because each one has had a tangible and concrete impact on my career. I can trace all of my most successful creative endeavors to the concepts in these books and the lessons I’ve learned from the people who wrote them.

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Become a Writer Today

12 Best Creativity Books for Your Library

With the best creativity books in hand, you can inspire your creativity and learn to live the creative lifestyle to the fullest.

Are you a creative person? Many aspiring writers and artists feel they don’t have what it takes to express themselves. I felt the same way for years. The funny thing is that all creatives have felt this at some point during their careers. It’s a common theme found in many of the best books about creativity. Other themes include procrastination, fear of failure, and even a fear of success!

I’ve read dozens of creativity books over the years. This guide profiles the best creativity books for the modern writers and artists, so you can start writing, creating and publishing your best works. You may also be interested in learning about the different types of creativity .

  • 1. Steal Like an Artist: 10 Things Nobody Told You About Being Creative by Austin Kleon
  • 2. The War of Art by Steven Pressfield
  • 3. Creativity, Inc. by Ed Catmull
  • 4. The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron
  • 5. The Creative Habit by Twyla Tharp
  • 6. Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear by Elizabeth Gilbert

7. Flow: The Psychology Of Optimal Experience By Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi

  • 8. It’s Not How Good You Are, It’s How Good You Want to Be by Paul Arden
  • 9. Lateral Thinking: Creativity Step by Step by Edward De Bono
  • 10. Show Your Work! 10 Ways to Share Your Creativity and Get Discovered by Austin Kleon

11. The Power of Creativity By Bryan Collins

  • 12. The Creative Act: A Way of Being by Rick Rubin

A Final Word On The Best Creativity Books

What are the best creativity books for writers, what are the best creative thinking books, further reading.

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Best creativity books for your library

1.  Steal Like an Artist: 10 Things Nobody Told You About Being Creative  by Austin Kleon

Published in 2012 as part of a three-part series, in  Steal Like an Artist,  Austin Kleon  explores the idea that no artistic work is an original idea. Creative people understand that art is everywhere, and the key to creating it is taking ideas from multiple sources, combining them, and adding your own voice. This book touches on the impact of the digital age on creativity. 

Steal Like an Artist is a quick read with fun visual illustrations for developing a creative mindset . Kleon is an illustrator, after all! You can read this book in one sitting too.

“Draw the art you want to see, start the business you want to run, play the music you want to hear, write the books you want to read, build the products you want to use – do the work you want to see done.” Austin Kleon

2.  The War of Art  by Steven Pressfield

Published in 2002, in  The War of Art , Pressfield explores how aspiring and even professional artists, creatives, and writers face demons like procrastination and self-doubt. Pressfield recounts his own creative struggles and explores how creatives can find their muse more easily. If you find it hard to get your creative ideas out and onto paper or canvas, this book will teach you how to express yourself.

“Are you paralyzed with fear? That’s a good sign. Fear is good. Like self-doubt, fear is an indicator. Fear tells us what we have to do. Remember one rule of thumb: the more scared we are of a work or calling, the more sure we can be that we have to do it.” Steven Pressfield

3.  Creativity, Inc. by Ed Catmull

Published in 2014, Creativity, Inc . is by  Ed Catmull, co-founder of the Pixar Animation Studio. This creative genius shows what it takes to transform a team of creative talents into a working culture that inspires greatness. This book explores creative thinking and how to capitalize on it in a group and build a successful business.

It’s a good read because it combines creativity with entrepreneurship and business. Catmull recounts how his team built Pixar and created many of its hit films. It’s also a revealing insight into how Pixar and its creative teams write and work together.

“You are not your idea, and if you identify too closely with your ideas, you will take offense when they are challenged.” Ed Catmull

4.  The Artist’s Way  by Julia Cameron

Published in 1992, novelist and playwright Julia Cameron explores what makes an artist in  The Artist’s Way. It outlines what living the artist’s life looks like and is a must-read for the creative person.

Cameron’s book is perhaps most famous for its concept of the morning pages. She encourages a daily writing practice whereby creatives free write about whatever is on their mind first thing. Cameron also proposes the concept of artist dates: taking a day or an afternoon to visit a museum, gallery or see a show by someone you admire. 

“Leap, and the net will appear.” Julia Cameron

5.  The Creative Habit  by Twyla Tharp

Published in 2003, The Creative Habit by noted American choreographer Twyla Tharp is part autobiographical and part self-help. Tharp writes about how she finds inspiration for her hit shows and also the habits and routines she and other creatives rely on. 

She believes people aren’t born “creatives.” Instead, you can develop creativity with the right education and habits. If you feel that you just “aren’t creative,” this book is a good primer. It may challenge your thinking and show you that there is potential inside everyone.

“I read for growth, firmly believing that what you are today and what you will be in five years depends on two things: the people you meet and the books you read.” Twyla Tharp

6.  Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear by Elizabeth Gilbert

For most people, fear is a big thing that holds them back from being creative. Big Magic teaches readers how to tackle their fears and rise above them. Author Elizabeth Gilbert believes this is where creativity’s “big magic” takes place. 

Published in 2015, this book is so effective at teaching you how to become creative that it instantly jumped to the top spot on the New York Times bestseller list.

“The universe buries strange jewels deep within us all, and then stands back to see if we can find them.” Elizabeth Gilbert

Published in 1990, this book explores the psychological idea of flow, a state of optimal experience that inspires the best creative potential in an individual. Csikszentmihalyi believes this state is something an individual can control.

This book will teach you what flow is and how you can reach and sustain that state. This will help you build your own creative process more effectively by keeping you in the right psychological state to get creative work done. I used this book to develop triggers that help me get into a state of creative flow much faster and more easily. Learn how to  get into flow state

“Control of consciousness determines the quality of life.” Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi

8. It’s Not How Good You Are, It’s How Good You Want to Be  by Paul Arden

Grab this book if you believe creativity is a set state and something you are born with. Paul Arden believes everyone has the potential to be more creative and better at their work.

He explores problem-solving strategies in this book that can help you achieve greater things. This book is an easy read because it is funny and short. You will finish it inspired to be better, inspiring more creativity.

“If you can’t solve a problem, it’s because you’re playing by the rules” Paul Arden

It's Not How Good You Are, It's How Good You Want to Be: The world's best-selling book by Paul Arden

  • Used Book in Good Condition
  • Arden, Paul (Author)
  • English (Publication Language)
  • 128 Pages - 06/01/2003 (Publication Date) - Phaidon Press (Publisher)

9.  Lateral Thinking: Creativity Step by Step by Edward De Bono

Most people learn how to solve problems by facing them head-on. This is vertical thinking, according to De Bono. He uses  Lateral Thinking  to teach a more creative approach to problem-solving First published in 1967, it’s considered one of DeBono’s best works and a creativity classic. 

This book explores the idea of lateral thinking instead of vertical thinking and takes the reader step-by-step through learning to think outside the box.

“A problem is simply the difference between what one has and what one wants.” Edward De Bono

Lateral Thinking: Creativity Step by Step

  • De Bono, Edward (Author)
  • 300 Pages - 02/24/2015 (Publication Date) - Harper Colophon (Publisher)

10.  Show Your Work! 10 Ways to Share Your Creativity and Get Discovered by Austin Kleon

Being creative is great, but if you want to earn money from your creative works, you need people to find you. Show Your Work! gives 10 practical ways to get your creative work seen by others. Published in 2014, this book explores everything from the balance between sharing and oversharing to getting over the fear of putting yourself out there.

Show Your Work! is particularly valuable today because it discusses the digital age and the Internet and how you can find an audience for your work.

“Make stuff you love and talk about stuff you love and you’ll attract people who love that kind of stuff. It’s that simple.” Austin Kleon

Show Your Work!: 10 Ways to Share Your Creativity and Get Discovered (Austin Kleon)

  • Binding: paperback
  • Workman publishing
  • Language: english
  • Kleon, Austin (Author)

Struggling to come up with your next great idea? Or do you find it impossible to get your creative juices flowing? Or perhaps you don’t think your creative talent will ever be strong enough to succeed? Desperate to make your next idea your big break?

Published in 2015, award-winning author, copywriter, and blogger Bryan Collins has had a lifelong fascination with creativity and the genesis of amazing ideas. After learning how to unleash his creative dreams, Collins is now ready to share his hidden secrets with you.

“You are more creative than you can imagine.” Bryan Collins

The Power of Creativity: A Three-Part Series for Writers, Artists, Musicians and Anyone In Search of Great Ideas

  • Collins, Bryan (Author)
  • 338 Pages - 05/23/2018 (Publication Date) - Independently published (Publisher)

12.  The Creative Act: A Way of Being  by Rick Rubin

Rick Rubin differs from most other music producers who have a trend-based sound. He creates a supportive environment where artists can express their true selves and unleash their full potential and has worked with everyone from U2 to Johnny Cash to the Red Hot Chill Peppers.

Published in 2023, in this book, Rubin recounts how being an artist is not solely about output but rather a deep connection with the world. He believes creativity is a vital aspect of life that can be nurtured and expanded by all. It’s an enlightening guide that showcases the journey of an artist and musician.

“If you have an idea you’re excited about and you don’t bring it to life, it’s not uncommon for the idea to find its voice through another maker. This isn’t because the other artist stole your idea, but because the idea’s time has come.” Rick Rubin

The best creativity books help you get past a hurdle like procrastination and are inspiring. Keep these choices in mind as you build a library of inspirational books. Each one will bring something to the table to help you become just a little more creative.

If you are in a creative rut, having a library on hand will help you break past that rut and start creating again. However, to do so, you must have the books on hand, so start building that creativity library today. If you want more information on this topic, check out our list of essays about creativity .

FAQs on the Best Creativity Books

The best creativity books for writers are those that help them get past writer’s block and their own fears about writing to continue creating beautiful works. Some that should be on your shelf include: 1. The Artist’s Way 2. The Creative Habit 3. Steal Like an Artist

The best books to learn more about creative thinking include: 1. Lateral Thinking 2. Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience 3. Creativity, Inc.

Want more? Check out our book recommendations .

Our Always Up-to-Date List of Great Books to Read

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Best Self-help Books

The Best Writing Books

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Nicole Harms has been writing professionally since 2006. She specializes in education content and real estate writing but enjoys a wide gamut of topics. Her goal is to connect with the reader in an engaging, but informative way. Her work has been featured on USA Today, and she ghostwrites for many high-profile companies. As a former teacher, she is passionate about both research and grammar, giving her clients the quality they demand in today's online marketing world.

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You were born to create and contribute. Keep going.

Have you ever struggled to bring a creative vision to life? Welcome to the club. I’ve yet to meet a single human who hasn’t felt frustrated and overwhelmed by the creative process.

Lucky for us, there are entire books on creativity — books that can help you overcome those all-too-familiar creative obstacles of perfectionism, impostor syndrome, or feeling like you’re not good enough. 

Books have always been and always will be a big part of my life. Everything I’ve done or overcome ties back to something I learned or was able to figure out thanks, in part, to a book. 

That’s why my team and I have curated a list of our top books about creativity for you below. 

Make yourself a cup of something delicious, put on your cozy pants, and settle in for some good, old-fashioned book love.

15 Books About Creativity We Can’t Put Down

We need artists, entrepreneurs, problem solvers, writers, and more people like you to share your gifts with the world. Books on how to be creative can give you the inspiration, motivation, and — most importantly — practical steps you need to take to do that.

Whether you’re stuck in a creative rut or struggling with writer’s block, the books in this list will inspire you to keep creating, no matter what business or season of life you’re in.

1. The War of Art by Steven Pressfield

best books on creativity reddit

The War of Art is a must-read if you’ve ever struggled with procrastination, writer’s block, or self-doubt.

It’s one of my all-time favorite books about creativity, and Steven Pressfield is truly extraordinary.

Any time I’m terrified about a creative project I’m working on, The War of Art reminds me these feelings are a normal part of the creative process — and then I keep going. That’s why Steven always tops my book recommendations .

Heather from Team Forleo’s Customer Happiness team has a page of The War of Art tacked to a bulletin board over her desk and consults it any time she needs a reminder of how impactful her words can be.

“When I’m scared to write or express myself or that my work isn’t ‘worthy’ or important, I just read that. It’s part of my work here at Marie Forleo International, too. Our words matter.”  ~ Heather, Customer Happiness

Watch Steven Pressfield on MarieTV: How To Overcome Resistance & Why Talent Doesn’t Matter

2. Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert

best books on creativity reddit

If any part of you longs to make and do really cool things in this world — write, paint, cook, dance, sing, speak, produce, code, act, bake, or bedazzle your toothbrush — read Big Magic.

This book is a treasure map to unleash your most creative and expressive life, and with Elizabeth Gilbert as your guide, you can’t go wrong.

Mandy from our Customer Happiness team recommends Big Magic because it stopped her from giving up on her writing dream. The book helped her love writing again and approach with a renewed sense of playfulness.

“Reading Big Magic gave me permission to be patient with myself. It’s not too late, and the past couple of years I’ve spent writing, I’ve only gotten better, more dedicated, and more joyful in my work.”  ~ Mandy, Customer Happiness

Watch Elizabeth on MarieTV: What Elizabeth Gilbert Wants You To Know About Big Magi

3. Creative Confidence by Tom Kelley & David Kelley

best books on creativity reddit

Creative Confidence is a book for anyone who mistakenly believes that only “artsy” types can be creative.

It shows you how to use creative thinking to be more productive and successful in any aspect of your life.

Brothers Tom and David Kelley know their stuff. David created Stanford’s d.school, an experimental program where people learn to achieve their greatest potential through design thinking. Tom also wrote The Art of Innovation to share lessons in creativity from the brothers’ design company, IDEO.

“If you seek more creative energy for yourself or your team, this book will provide valuable instruction and empowering encouragement.”  ~ Publisher’s Weekly

4. The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron

best books on creativity reddit

Want to understand your creativity on a deeper level? The Artist’s Way guides you through exercises, writing rituals, and self-discovery techniques to become a better artist. Julia Cameron is a master teacher, and reading this book will transform your creative process.

Our Customer Happiness rep Julia says the book helps her “to not feel like a weirdo for being the way I am or living the way I do” — and we’re all thankful for that! 

“It’s one of those books that makes you feel truly seen, understood, and supported in a way that you may never have before by anyone in your life.”   ~ Julia, Customer Happiness

Want to hear directly from Team Forleo? We created a special episode of The Marie Forleo Podcast called #ILovedThisBook: Creativity Edition. You’ll hear excerpts from some of our favorite books and stories from our own creative journeys.

Download the podcast episode from wherever you love to listen or hit play below.

Watch Video now

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Download transcript.

In this episode of MarieTV, we do have some adult language. So if you do have little ones around, grab your headphones now.

Marie Forleo: What’s up, party people. I’m Marie Forleo, and for the past 20 years I have been obsessed with learning what it takes to turn dreams into reality. I started my company back in the day with no clue, no connections, no money, and over time grew it into something spectacular. I created the award-winning show MarieTV, was named by Oprah as a thought leader for the next generation, and wrote the instant number one New York Times bestseller, Everything is Figureoutable.

Marie Forleo: I’ve helped millions of people transform their businesses and lives, and every week, I’m going to help you take action and make the difference you were born to make. But please do not expect anything about this to be traditional. We’ve got songs, we’ve got weird sound effects, the occasional F-bombs, maybe some fart jokes if you’re lucky, and anything else that makes me laugh. It is all fair game because this is the Marie Forleo podcast.

Marie Forleo: If you’re a book lover or a book writer or some kind of creative human being, today’s episode is for you. We’re going to talk about our love of books today, and specifically, books that have helped my team and I overcome some creative challenges like perfectionism, imposter syndrome, or just that general feeling of not being good enough. So think about this one like a little bit of a virtual book club between you, myself, Team Forleo, and our entire community. I want you to put on your cozy pants if you got them, or you can just take off your pants, who cares, no one’s going to see you. Grab a cup of coffee or tea, a glass of red or sparkling water, whatever floats your beverage boat, and settle in for a very special episode that we’re calling #ILovedThisBook, creativity edition. But first, a word from today’s sponsor.

Charlene: Oh, geez Louise, not again.

Marie: What’s wrong, Charlene?

Charlene: Where do I even start? I’m writing consistent content every week on my website and nobody seems to care.

Marie: Have you tried The Copy Cure?

Charlene: The Copy Cure? What’s that?

Marie: Oh, it’s this online copywriting course to help you write clear and compelling copy for social media, blog posts, website copy, whatever. It’s helped thousands of marketers, authors, copywriters, and entrepreneurs write in a way that’s persuasive and unique-sounding without being overly weird or pushy.

Charlene: I don’t know. You think it’s really going to help?

Marie: Oh, absolutely, Charlene. In fact, you should take the free seven-day writing class that we’re offering right now at thecopycure.com.

Charlene: Ooh, sounds great. Where do I sign up for that free writing class again?

Marie: Oh, it’s thecopycure.com. And, oh, honey, if you still didn’t hear it, rewind the damn podcast.

Marie Forleo: One of my earliest memories was when I was about four years old. I was sitting in the grammar school library in Iselin, New Jersey on the floor, surrounded by piles of books. My mom was volunteering for my older brother’s class and the kindergarten teacher, her name was Mrs. Krusin, was keeping an eye on me. I remember feeling intoxicated by that special smell of books that libraries always have and just feeling mesmerized by it all. I felt like every book was this window into an entirely different universe, and I would trace the words and the pictures with my fingers working so hard to figure out what it all meant.

Marie Forleo: One of the first books that I got obsessed with was Harold and the Purple Crayon. Do you remember that one? I loved the colors of the book, but I think the thing that really got me was the fact that the entire story was about a child who had the power to create his own world using his imagination. He wanted to go for a walk in the moonlight, but there wasn’t a moon, so he drew one in. And then after walking along this straight path for a bit, he realized he wasn’t getting anywhere. So he took that crayon of his and he drew a new, different path, which led to a lot more adventures.

Marie Forleo: Books have always been, and I predict they always will be, a huge part of my life. Every single thing that I’ve done or overcome or learned usually ties back to something I figured out or got inspired by in a book. People still ask me all the time. They say, “Marie, what books do you recommend?” In fact, somebody just asked me on YouTube, they said, “Hey, Marie, can you do a video on the top 20 books that made the biggest impact on your life? Your must-reads.”

Marie Forleo: If you’ve listened to this show for any amount of time, you know I often interview authors about their books, but given everything that’s happening right now, I thought it would be fun to curate a little reading list just for you specifically about creativity. You can find the full list of all the books on the blog if you google, “Marie Forleo books to read on creativity.”

Marie Forleo: Now, if you’re wondering, why are you guys picking creativity as the theme for this one, here’s the reason. Right now, most of us have to be even more creative than we’ve ever been before and we have to do it fast. We all have to change the way that we’re living and working and doing business and even moving about our lives, which requires tremendous creativity and imagination, and a bit of determination.

Marie Forleo: I want to share with you a little passage right now from one of my all-time favorite books about creativity. It’s called The War of Art and it’s written by my dear friend, Steven Pressfield. The title of this section is called Resistance and Fear. Steven writes, “are you paralyzed with fear? That’s a good sign. Fear is good. Like self-doubt, fear is an indicator. Fear tells us what we have to do. Remember our rule of thumb: the more scared we are of a work or calling, the more sure we can be that we have to do it. Resistance is experienced as fear. The degree of fear equates to the strength of resistance. Therefore, the more fear we feel about a specific enterprise, the more certain we can be that that enterprise is important to us and to the growth of our soul. That’s why we feel so much resistance. If it meant nothing to us, there’d be no resistance.

Marie Forleo: Have you ever watched Inside the Actors studio? The host, James Lipton, invariably asks his guests, ‘What factors make you decide to take a particular role?’ The actor always answers, ‘Because I’m afraid of it.’ The professional tackles the project that will make him stretch. He takes on the assignment that will bear him into unchartered waters, compel him to explore unconscious parts of himself. Is he scared? Hell, yes. He’s petrified. Conversely, the professional turns down roles that he’s done before. He’s not afraid of them anymore. Why waste his time? So if you’re paralyzed with fear, it’s a good sign. It shows you what you have to do.” That’s the end of the passage from The War of Art.

Marie Forleo: Now, why do I love this one so much? Because every major breakthrough in my own creative life, before I do it, and even as I’m doing it, I’ve got to be honest, I’m terrified. I remember feeling so afraid when I gave my very first personal development workshop when I was about 24 years old. I was also terrified when I decided that I wanted to do a different kind of book launch for Everything is Figureoutable. It was an idea that I had that had literally never been done before. I thought to myself, what if a Beyonce concert and a TED Talk had a baby, and then threw a block party? And if you’ve been following me for a while, you know this, we did it. It was amazing, and it was scary the entire way through.

Marie Forleo: And now I’m actually starting to work on my next book, and there’s aspects of this one that have me totally twisted up. But as I’ve learned, and as Steven shares, you have to trust the guidance of creative fear. As I like to say, fear is a GPS for where my soul most wants to go. And I bet the same thing might be true for you too. Now, some of Team Forleo are here to share their favorite books about creativity too. Have a listen.

Marian: I’m Marian and I’m a copywriter. I chose Bird by Bird by the incredible Anne Lamott and this book, she wrote it years ago, and it’s about creativity and writing, but from a personal angle, which I think is one of the reasons that this book resonated with me so much. It’s not a how-to about writing, it’s musings on writing life but not douchey, because I realized that sounds really douchey, but basically Anne just talks about her journey as a writer and the struggles and the advice and the things that have gotten her through the writing life.

Marian: I think about this book all the time because I write all day for my job and I do a lot of personal writing. The single idea that changed my life was in this book, and the idea is Lamott’s take on the shitty first draft. So basically, just sitting down and getting something out. Because I have always found on the days when I just don’t want to write and things feel terrible, or when I’m working on my novel and I don’t know where it’s going, or I’m trying to write an email and it’s just coming out wrong, that if I just get the shittiest version out on paper, it is infinitely easier to edit, and it feels so much freer once there’s something on the paper.

Marian: And I think Anne, who is this incredibly talented writer, talking about the garbage that comes out the first time she writes something, makes me feel better because I think she just has this really funny way of talking about how basically even the best writers that you know have no idea what they’re doing until they’ve done it. And nobody just sits down at their desk with their beret and their cigarette and churns out this beautiful sentence, that it takes a ton of work and a ton of workshopping and a ton of editing. And knowing that has made me feel so much better about the writing process. So I talk about and I talk about this concept all the time.

Marian: This is my favorite part of Bird by Bird and it makes me laugh every time. So here we go. “The first draft is the child’s draft, where you let it all pour out and then let it romp all over the place, knowing that no one is going to see it and that you can shape it later. You just let this childlike part of you channel whatever voices and visions come through and onto the page. If one of the characters wants to say, ‘Well, so what, Mr. Poopy Pants?’ you let her. No one is going to see it. If the kid wants to get into really sentimental, weepy, emotional territory, you’d let him. Just get it all down on paper because there may be something great in those six crazy pages that you would have never gotten to by more rational, grown-up means. There may be something in the very last line of the very last paragraph on page six that you just love, that is so beautiful or wild that you now know what you’re supposed to be writing about, more or less, or in what direction you might go, but there was no way to get to this without first getting through the first five and a half pages.”

Louise: My name is Louise and I am Head of Storytelling. I chose From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs Basil E. Frankweiler by E. L. Konigsburg. This was one of my very favorite books as a kid, perhaps my favorite, and it still is now. It really impacted my life. I related a lot. I read it probably way earlier than I should have, and I related a lot to Claudia Kincaid, the main character, in her desire for adventure and to kind of shake up her life. I never thought about running away, but I admired her desire to do so and to choose the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City as the place to go. I think it definitely intensified my determination to live in New York City, which I do. And I actually read it out loud when I was pregnant with my son Griffin a few years ago. I just decided to read it, and it probably took me about a month to get through it, but it was one of the things I read out loud. I just picked it up. I don’t know why, probably because I have such a love for it.

Louise: I’m going to pull up the section of the book that has always sat with me. Claudia and Jamie have met Mrs. Frankweiler and they’re talking to her about learning something new every day. And she said, “I think you should learn, of course, and some days you must learn a great deal, but you should also have days when you allow what is already in you to swell up inside of you until it touches everything and you can feel it inside you. If you never take time out to let that happen, then you just accumulate facts, and they begin to rattle around inside of you. You can make noise with them but never really feel anything with them. It’s hollow.”

Louise: It is a beautiful book with thick mystery and intrigue and the map of the museum, and everything I’ve ever read about the book and I guess they did a 50th anniversary thing at the Met for it, everything about it is talked about, like the adventure and the intrigue and the idea of living in a museum for a week, and all of these cool things that would happen from that. And where would you sleep and what would you do when no one else was there? But I think the biggest thing is about the idea of learning and knowledge and absorbing and that you have to take the space for that stuff to fill you and change you, because otherwise, it just washes over you. It rattles around inside of you, as she says, and it never really sinks in and becomes part of the matter of you that then brings whatever you’re supposed to do to the world.

Jayasri: I’m Jayasri. I’m on the Customer Happiness Team. We really support our customers through B-school, The Copy Cure, life and everything that MarieTV brings forth and people’s hearts.

Jayasri: I chose Letters to a Young Poet by Rainer Maria Rilke. I chose that book because I remembered reading it at a time, I was a teenager when I first read that book, and I had lost my father. Needless to say, it was a really difficult time. And this book is just so comforting. It’s a collection of 10 letters from the poet Rilke to another young poet, really giving life advice and so many nuggets of wisdom about the creative path and the journey. And it’s so much about going inward and trusting the process and trusting our path. So it was so comforting for me and I thought it really connected to the topic of creativity in a unique way.

Jayasri: I would say that one of the things that has challenged me the most personally, creatively, is having so many different interests and really wanting to explore different creative outlets. I’ve been so hard on myself about that and thinking that, no, it just has to be one thing. If you want to do something well, it can only be one art form. But everyone has a different journey. And if your heart’s being pulled in these different creative mediums or towards these different creative mediums, to just allow it, just let it be. There is something unique for you in each of those explorations, and again, it comes back to that comparing with others. If we compare to others, we might think that it has to be or should be a certain way, but just trusting that your voice can come through so many different forms, and you don’t know where it’s leading or how they connect and it’s okay.

Jayasri: For anyone feeling the impacts of uncertainty during this time, this passage from Letters to a Young Poet by Rainer Maria Rilke is one of my favorites. “Why do you want to shut out of your life any uneasiness, any misery, any depression? Since after all, you don’t know what work these conditions are doing inside you. Why do you want to persecute yourself with the question of where all this is coming from and where it is going? Since you know, after all, that you are in the midst of transitions and you wished for nothing so much as to change.”

Marie Forleo: Kind of fun, right? Remember, you can check out the full list of curated books about creativity over at marieforleo.com/blog.

Marie Forleo: Now, one more thing. I read this stat in the New York Times, I thought it was fascinating. It was about 80% of people in the world feel like they have a book in them and they should write it. I bet you have either written a book already or you’re working on your next one or you want to write a book. And let me tell you a little bit of an embarrassing secret. When I was working on Everything is Figureoutable and I was writing it, I hit all kinds of walls. I had writer’s block, I was getting super down on myself, I even cried a lot of times. You name it, I had it. You want to know one of the things that I did when I got stuck? This is the embarrassing part. I actually went and did the exercises from my own writing course called The Copy Cure. That’s right. I went and took my own damn advice and I did my own course to get unstuck, and guess what? It worked.

Marie Forleo: And look, I’m not the only one. I actually got an email from a Copy Cure student who’s also an author named Michelle, and she wrote, “Dear Marie, Copy Cure has been a game changer for me and my work. In fact, my little girl and I released a new children’s book on the 30th and it’s been an Amazon bestseller.” Her name is Michelle, and her book title is Coco & Olive: The Color of Love, a children’s book celebrating diversity and adoption.

Marie Forleo: Honestly, even if you don’t want to write a book ever, there is a good chance that you have something you want to share with the world. Maybe it’s an idea, it’s a product, it’s a service, something that you have to get the message out about. And I believe, personally, one of the most powerful skills in the world is the ability to articulate your ideas in a way that’s clear and inspires people to take action. And, yes, that is a skill. It’s one that anyone can learn and develop.

Marie Forleo: So I’ve got this free class coming up. It’s called The Five Writing Mistakes You Can’t Afford To Make In Your Business. And if you’re interested, you should come. You can go register now at thecopycure.com. I do want to let you know that doors to the full Copy Cure writing program open on May 6th. We’re going to have all the information up at thecopycure.com, and if it’s right for you, we’d love to have you join us. We back everything up with a 100% satisfaction guarantee and, of course, you have access to material for life.

Marie Forleo: And now my friend, it’s time for our insight to action challenge. Remember, we do not want passive listeners here on the Marie Forleo Podcast. We want you to metabolize what you learn and use it to create a richer, fuller life. Today’s challenge, very simple. I want to know what book has made the biggest impact on your creative journey and why. So all I need you to do is take a screenshot of you listening to this episode, tag me at Marie Forleo, and if you can, tag the author too. Writing a book is a really challenging process, and as an author myself, it means a lot when you hear from readers that your book made a difference to them. So tag me and the author and use the hashtag #ILovedThisBook.

Marie Forleo: Now, if you enjoyed this episode, leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or Google Podcast. It would mean so much to me and the team. Thank you so much for listening, and until next time, stay on your game and keep going for your dreams, because the world really does need that very special gift that only you have. Sending you so much love, and I’ll talk to you soon.

Marie Forleo: Oh my goodness, I adore you because you’re still listening. Now, look, you are clearly someone who goes all the way in life and that’s why you should become an MF Insider. It’s a weekly inspiration explosion in your inbox in the best way possible, of course. Seriously though, you’re about to get so much love, so much motivation, it might just be illegal. Head over to marieforleo.com/subscribe. Your inbox will thank you for it.

5. Creativity, Inc. by Ed Catmull

best books on creativity reddit

Can you think of a more creative, playful, and joyful brand in modern culture than Pixar?

The company’s co-founder and former president, Ed Catmull, wrote Creativity, Inc. for business leaders who want to incorporate Pixar-level creativity into their own culture.

What’s fun about this book is that it dives behind the scenes at Pixar Animation Studios to show you how movies like Toy Story, Finding Nemo, and WALL-E came to life.

Ed writes about the people and environment at Pixar that supported the innovation behind those iconic creations. He also shares the unique principles they live by to give their teams the freedom to take risks and create in ways no one ever had before.

“Reading Creativity, Inc., one can easily appreciate Catmull’s gifts as a leader whose style — deft, open, humble, caring, trusting, purposeful — has built, shaped and sustained an exceptional creative culture…That combination of effectively bringing creativity to his leadership challenges and leadership to his firm’s creative work is rare.”  ~ Forbes

6. Embrace Your Weird by Felicia Day

best books on creativity reddit

Feel like an oddball? Embrace Your Weird is here for it.

Felicia Day is a multipassionate actress and creative who challenges you to let go of old insecurities and become the creative force you were always meant to be.

No matter what kind of creative outlet you enjoy, Embrace Your Weird will help you tap into creative reservoirs you didn’t know were there — and have fun doing it.

“I love how this book poses shifting your thoughts around anxiety and creativity, which is something I struggle with … it’s all about being okay with being weird!”  ~ Kelsey, Creative Project Manager

Kelsey from Team Forleo has loved Felicia since her own nerdy Comic Con days.

She has this Embrace Your Weird quote scratched in a notebook to get through those “is this good enough??” moments: “Next time there’s an anxiety-inducing task at hand, why not visualize doing it in front of someone who’s delighted at everything you do?

7. Bird by Bird by Anne Lamott

best books on creativity reddit

Got a love/hate relationship with writing? Anne Lamott is a bestselling author — but that doesn’t mean her feelings on writing aren’t complicated. Bird by Bird is a classic book every artist should read. It’s about Anne’s experience as a writer and how to handle the peaks and valleys that come with it.

“No idea has changed me more than Lamott’s take on ‘the shitty first draft.’”  ~ Marian, Senior Editor

Bird by Bird doesn’t give you a magic formula, but it does shift your mindset. Next time you sit down to write and you’re staring at a blank screen, like Marian from our Copywriting team, you can remember that, “Anne told you that it was okay to write ‘Mr. Poopy Pants’ just to get something on the page.”

8. Letters to a Young Poet , by Rainer Maria Rilke

best books on creativity reddit

Letters to a Young Poet is a book of letters for the creative soul.

Rilke’s words are mystical and beautiful, and they will leave you marveling over the power of well-crafted, heartfelt words.

Jayasri from our Customer Happiness team read and fell in love with the book as a teenager after losing her father, a vulnerable and uncertain time.

“It felt as if Rilke was writing directly to my heart and easing all my worries. I felt recognized and hopeful for future treasures unknown. Those comforting letters told me to keep going, keep creating, and that words have the power to reach through time and transform lives.”  ~ Jayasri, Customer Happiness

9. Steal Like an Artist by Austin Kleon

best books on creativity reddit

Austin Kleon’s books are as fun to look at as they are to read. They’re coffee-table-meets-guide book and will help you determine which direction to follow.

Steal Like an Artist is Austin’s first manifesto for creating in the digital age. He shares “10 things nobody told you about being creative,” his principles to help you connect with your inner artist and get to work.

“Immersing yourself in Steal Like an Artist is as fine an investment in the life of your mind as you can hope to make.”  ~ Brain Pickings

You may also want to read Austin’s other books for creative people: Show Your Work! about how to get your ideas noticed and Keep Going about staying focused no matter what.

10. Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain by Betty Edwards

best books on creativity reddit

Betty Edwards wanted all her students to learn how to draw successfully, and Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain is one of her educational masterpieces. It’s a drawing book for artists of any experience level. 

Best of all? It trains your brain to think creatively.

Team Forleo Designer Meg found the book on her grandparents’ bookshelf as a kid, and it helped her discover that everyone is creative — art isn’t some rare mystery reserved for a select few.

“I was always really ‘artsy’ but also very analytical and left-brainy, and I feel like that book spoke to my full self in a way that other drawing books never did.”  ~ Meg, Senior Designer

It’s not just inspirational, though. The book is also a great introduction to art and design principles for anyone just getting started or looking for a refresher.

11. In The Company of Women by Grace Bonney

best books on creativity reddit

Doubt that you have what it takes to bring your creative vision to life? Grace Bonney’s In the Company of Women may be the inspiration you need.

You’ll learn about 100 multipassionate women who’ve led interesting lives and careers built on talent, ambition, and creativity.

In the Company of Women is a coffee table collection of photos and profiles of creative women filled with heaps of inspiration.

Our Creative Strategist, Hailey, loves taking time to sit down with these inspiring women anytime she needs a boost of encouragement, to learn how they get things done.

“I LOVE learning about the lifestyles and philosophies of artists –– how they live, work, dress, and share their ideas with the world –– and this book gives me the opportunity to sit down with 100 different women and learn about their creative processes.”  ~ Hailey, Creative Strategist

Watch Grace Bonney on MarieTV: The Truth About Work Life Balance With Grace Bonney

12. From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler by E. L. Konigsburg

best books on creativity reddit

Remember getting lost in your imagination as a kid? From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler takes you back to those precious moments. It won E.L. Konigsburg a Newbery Medal­ for good reason. Though it’s not intentionally a book on creativity, this novel is a classic that will remind you of the pure, childlike joy that heightens creative thinking.

It follows Claudia Kincaid and her brother, Jamie, as they run away from home and end up living at The Met museum.

And it’s been a favorite of our Head of Production, Louise, since she was a kid. The book even inspired her to move to New York!

“Claudia’s quixotic nature and her ingenuity taught me that no plan is too outlandish, no dream is too big. But it’s always important to leave room for the unexpected if you want to experience a life beyond your wildest dreams.”  ~ Louise, Head of Production

13. Flow by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi

best books on creativity reddit

Do you ever sit down to write, draw, paint, or create anything one second and look up the next second to realize it’s been hours, and you forgot to eat lunch, missed 15 phone calls, and sucked your coffee dry?

That state of total absorption in something you love is what psychologist Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi calls “flow” — he believes it’s the happiest we ever are.

His book Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience brought the concept of flow into the mainstream in the 90s, and it’s remained among the best books on creativity for decades. It shows you how to control the state of flow, instead of waiting for it to hit, so you can be more happy and satisfied in everything you do.

“Csikszentmihalyi arrives at an insight that many of us can intuitively grasp, despite our insistent (and culturally supported) denial of this truth. That is, it is not what happens to us that determines our happiness, but the manner in which we make sense of that reality.”  ~ Los Angeles Times

14. Bossypants , by Tina Fey

best books on creativity reddit

For inspiration and a good laugh, look no further than Bossypants by Tina Fey. It chronicles her life, time on Saturday Night Live , and what she’s learned from taking creative risks along the way.

Laura, a copywriter on Team Forleo, picked up the book during grad school, and it was just what she needed at a time when she was trying to figure out what to do next.

“Who was this woman who tells it like it is, has a career built on her creativity, and refuses to put up with people’s bullshit? She’s not trying to be anyone but herself — and she’s wildly successful at it.”  ~ Laura, Copywriter

The book inspired Laura to keep creativity in her life no matter what, even if she was just writing or creating for herself.

15. It’s Not How Good You Are, It’s How Good You Want to Be by Paul Arden

Ever wish you could channel some Don Draper-esque brilliance to spice up your business or creative projects?

Paul Arden is a real-life advertising guru, and his book shows you how to imbue some Madison Avenue style into your work and personal life to find whatever success you can imagine.

“It’s definitely the first book I give my friends who don’t read that much. I loved its simplicity, and that it sheds light on a lotfff9f7 of different stories, and a lot of different situations while being a very easy read.”  ~ Mohamed El-Dib, Entrepreneur

Also check out Paul’s Whatever You Think, Think the Opposite to learn more about adding creativity to your business and life.

Ultimate Must Read: Everything is Figureoutable by Marie Forleo

best books on creativity reddit

Have you read my book yet? If not… what are you waiting for?!

Everything Is Figureoutable was an instant No. 1 New York Times bestseller, and it’ll retrain your brain to think more creatively and positively, especially in the face of setbacks.

Whether you want to leave a dead-end job, break an addiction, learn to dance, heal a relationship, or grow a business, Everything is Figureoutable will show you how. 

Now, I’d love to hear from you. 

What creativity book has made the biggest impact on your creative growth and why? 

Tell me in the comments below. 

Remember, everything you do in life requires creativity, imagination, and determination. You were born to create and contribute. Keep going. 

With enormous love,

best books on creativity reddit

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The Best Books On Creativity

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I recently had a conversation with one of the guests in today’s article; where we discussed the topic of inspiration and how it is a concept we all understand, but find hard to define. He pointed out that that was the exact same principle that led him to study creativity. What is creativity ? One definition is ‘the use of imagination or original ideas to create something’. As always, my job is to seek out the best books on creativity. I’ve been fortunate to have had some fascinating conversations with some of the world’s leading creativity experts; who are the best positioned to select the best books on creativity. In the lead-up to this article; I asked each of them to select the three best books on creativity in their opinion and provide an explanation of why they’ve made their selections.   Please meet our expert panel who will help us discover the best books on creativity.

David Goldstein

David Goldstein is a management consultant, coach, speaker and the originator of the “creative-type” concept. David is the author of the best- selling book: Creative You: Using Your Personality Type To Thrive .  David is a researcher with a science background and an M.B.A. in Management of Science, Technology and Innovation, who is also an internationally recognized artist .

Matthew A. Cronin

Matthew A. Cronin is an associate professor of management at George Mason University. He has a PhD in organizational behaviour from Carnegie Mellon University. Matthew co-authored a book on the subject of creativity, The Craft of Creativity , within which the authors present a new way to understand how we innovate. Matthew A. Cronin’s research seeks to understand how collaboration can help produce creative ideas.

Jeffrey Loewenstein

Jeffrey Loewenstein is a faculty member at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign’s College of Business. His work provides guidance for creative thinking, negotiation, and leadership . Jeffrey received his Ph.D. from Northwestern University and taught previously at the Kellogg School of Management, Columbia Business School and The University of Texas at Austin. He co-authored the book, The Craft of Creativity .

Michael Michalko

Michael Michalko is a highly acclaimed creativity expert and author of numerous bestselling books. He has provided keynote speeches, workshops, and seminars on fostering creative thinking for clients who range from Fortune 500 corporations to governmental agencies. Some of Michael’s creative-thinking techniques that were refined by his government and corporate practice were published in his best-seller Thinkertoys .

Vlad Glăveanu

Vlad Glăveanu, PhD, is Associate Professor and Head of the Department of Psychology and Counselling at Webster University Geneva, Associate Professor II at Bergen University, Norway, and Director of the Webster Center for Creativity and Innovation. His work focuses on creativity, imagination, culture, collaboration, and societal challenges. In 2018, he won the Berlyne Award from the American Psychological Association.

You’ve met the panel and now it is time to discover their nominations for the best books on creativity.

If you want to write  by brenda ueland, david goldstein:.

Reading books on creativity can be mind-opening and inspiring as long as we keep one thought in mind.  Creativity isn’t one size fits all. Many authors generously share their secrets and while their specific tricks and processes work for some, they may not feel right for us – as we’re all creative in different ways.  By understanding this one simple idea, we can select what works for us and discard the rest without becoming discouraged. The books I’m suggesting are must-read, time-tested, and general in nature that they go to the very heart of creativity.  If You Want to Write  written in 1938 is the very kernel for creativity by showing that everyone is talented, original, and has something to say. This is a theme I’ve been building on as I try to show everyone they can act creatively.  We all have some ideas and we all can learn techniques to express our ideas. Whether you want to write, sing, dance, paint, or invent, then read, read, and read! Then do, do, and do!

Art as Experience by John Dewey

Vlad glăveanu:.

One of them is a classic, Dewey’s ‘Art as experience’ from 1934. In this book, Dewey outlines a pragmatist model of creativity that accomplishes a number of things. First of all, it ‘democratises’ creative expression in art by associating it with (everyday) experience rather than high or museum art. Second, it proposes an interesting view of the creative process as alternating between doing (action) and undergoing (perception) – a view that resonates with cognitive as well as social models proposed decades later.

Genius  by James Gleick

Michael michalko:.

genius by James gleick

Never content with what he knew or with what others knew, Feynman ceaselessly questioned scientific truths. This book shows how his vision was formed. As that vision crystallized in work that reinvented quantum mechanics, we see Feynman’s impact on the elite particle-physics community, and how Feynman grew to be at odds with the very community that idolized him. The most important lesson I received from Feynman was to disregard what others are doing in your field and to rely on your own intuition and hunches.

The Craft of Creativity  by Jeffrey Loewenstein and Matthew A. Cronin

Jeffrey loewenstein:.

I’m not going to toot my own horn and say that the book Matt Cronin and I just wrote is the best book on creativity out there, although naturally I’m proud of it and hope that people find it useful. What I think is distinctive about our book, The Craft of Creativity , is that it provides a concrete account of what we are doing when we are creative: It describes creativity as a change in perspective, then walks through what a perspective is, how we change our perspectives, and when we do so. Let me instead draw attention to two books that merit attention:

The Social Psychology of Creativity  by Teresa Amabile

Matthew a. cronin:.

The best books on creativity span regions of the book space and all of these books were foundations for my own work. My first choice is The Social Psychology of Creativity by Teresa Amabile – to me, this is THE seminal academic work on creativity. It really launched the study of creativity, so most of what we know has its roots in this work. It provides a framework for what constitutes creativity that is still in use today.  It is a scholarly bedrock.

Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain  by Betty Edwards

All those people who say: “I’m not creative because I can’t draw” must try the exercises in Drawing on the Right side of the Brain  by Betty Edwards. In spite of recognizing now that the creative process comes through whole brain thinking, this book continues to prove we can learn to draw well if we can hold a pencil and happen to have a long weekend to practice. Drawing isn’t really a prerequisite for creativity, but learning to draw trains our eye to see the world as an artist and makes us feel more creative.

Conceptual Blockbusting  by James Adams

conceptual blockbusting

We all fall into familiar thinking patterns when we are trying to solve problems. Often times we just need to apply a different thinking strategy or language (visual, mathematical, verbal, etc.) in order to see the problem in a different way and help get unstuck. Adams does a great job of proving and reinforcing these concepts with exercises throughout the book. You will be surprised by how often you fall right into the traps of his exercises and how well they highlight your familiar (and limiting) thinking patterns.

Creativity: Flow and the Psychology of Discovery and Invention  by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi

Creativity: Flow and the Psychology of Discovery and Invention by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi – While “flow” gets a lot of play in the media, I think it is his broad and deep look into the creators’ practices themselves that makes this work so important. It is kind of the yang to Amabile’s yin because while Amabile’s work identifies the actual parts of creativity, Csikszentmihalyi’s identified what creativity actually looked like when all these parts worked together.

On Knowing: Essays for the Left Hand  by Jerome Bruner

The other one is also a classic, but a bit less popular perhaps, Bruner’s ‘On Knowing: Essays for the left hand’ (1979), which offers a truly refreshing view of creativity coming from sociocultural and educational psychology. In this book Bruner challenges genius and reified conceptions of the phenomenon and also offers his famous view of creativity as ‘effective surprise’.

Creative Change  by Jennifer Mueller

When we think about creativity, we tend to focus on generating ideas. We sometimes think about pitching creative ideas, and of course, we think about implementation. But we don’t tend to think about how to evaluate ideas. Yet if people tend to reject creative ideas rather than select them for implementation, and it seems that often we do have just this tendency, then skill at generation and implementation are not enough. Creative Change by Jennifer Mueller documents why evaluating creative ideas is hard and what we can do about it.

Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experiences  by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi

Beyond the myths of the brooding artist, when we’re creating, it’s deeply engaging, we find ourselves losing track of time, and we’re experiencing enjoyment. Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi’s Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experiences  examines that amazing, effortless, and spontaneous engagement we feel while creating. This author with a tough to pronounce name, helps us improve our art and our wellbeing by outlining easily understandable ways to replicate the conditions for getting into our “flow state.”

Six Thinking Hats  by Edward de Bono

six thinking hats

“The main difficulty of thinking is confusion,” writes de Bono “We try to do too much at once. Emotions, information, logic, hope, and creativity all crowd in on us. It is like juggling with too many balls.” The solution? De Bono unscrambles the thinking process with his “six thinking hats”:

  • WHITE HAT: neutral and objective, concerned with facts and figures
  • RED HAT: the emotional view
  • BLACK HAT: careful and cautious, the “devil’s advocate” hat
  • YELLOW HAT: sunny and positive
  • GREEN HAT: associated with fertile growth, creativity, and new ideas
  • BLUE HAT: cool, the color of the sky, above everything else-the organizing hat

Through case studies and real-life examples, Dr. de Bono reveals the surprising ways in which deliberate role-playing can make you a better thinker. He offers a powerfully simple tool that you–and your business, whether it’s a start-up or a major corporation–can use to create a climate of clearer thinking, improved communication , and greater creativity. His book is an instructive and inspiring text for anyone who makes decisions, in business or in life.

Smart Thinking  by Art Markman

One major way to be creative is to use our prior experience to provide additional perspectives on what we are currently thinking about. This means generating some prior experiences, understanding those experiences, and later calling upon them. Smart Thinking by Art Markman is a practical guide to how we can enhance our ability to do just this.

Why Not?  by Barry Nalebuff and Ian Ayers

Matthew cronin:.

why not

Just a side note, I am judging influence by generativity of thought, not by sales. Society and any field moves forward when those that invent ideas cause others to invent other ideas. Put differently, Rhianna could manufacture 1000 more songs over the next 10 years, make a gazillion dollars, have market dominance in the music buying world, and music would sound exactly the same at the end of those 10 years. That is not influence, it is income. Influence is when someone does something that changes how music sounds – Rick Rubin founding Def Jam Records and bringing a whole new genre into prominence.

Social Creativity  by Alfonso Montuori and Ronald Purser

Lastly, a book (in two volumes in fact) that greatly influenced me and my work but also colleagues from my ‘community’ (social and cultural creativity researchers) is ‘Social creativity’, edited by Alfonso Montuori and Ronald Purser in 1999. This is a landmark publication that strongly made the point that creativity is a social phenomenon before this conclusion was popular (and in fact, it was even a controversial point to make!). This collection of chapters includes many notable contributors and chapters (including Barron’s ‘All creation is collaboration’, Bateson’s ‘Ordinary creativity’, and Barrett’s ‘Knowledge creation as dialogical experiment’).

Which books would you consider the best books on creativity? Comment below and let us know! If you enjoyed this reading list, be sure to also check out the Best Graphic Novels of All Time .

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14 Best Creativity Books To Read in 2024

You found our list of top creativity books for professionals.

Creativity books are works that inspire innovation, expression, and out-of-the box thinking. These guides cover topics such as discovering inspiration, collaborating creativity, avoiding burnout and creative blocks, and finding ways to innovate professionally. The purpose of these books is to help individuals and teams in various fields and positions be more inventive and productive.

Fostering creativity is a step in building healthy company cultures and successful teams . These guides share many similarities with books on marketing , and innovation books , and often include creativity quotes .

This list includes:

  • creativity self help books
  • business creativity books
  • books on innovation
  • creativity books for adults

Here we go!

List of creativity books

Here is a list of practical and motivational books on creativity for work.

1. Creativity, Inc.: Overcoming the Unseen Forces That Stand in the Way of True Inspiration by Ed Catmull and Amy Wallace

creativity inc book cover

Creativity, Inc. is one of the bestselling business creativity books of all time. Ed Catmull was a co-founder and president of Pixar Animation, and uses his vast experience and expertise to deliver insights on innovation, vision, artistic productivity, and creative teamwork. The author distills two decades of experience into a series of motivational mantras and actionable insights. Catamull lays the groundwork for readers to replicate this innovative environment and foster atmospheres where creativity can thrive. The book also gives a fascinating history and behind the scenes peek at Pixar. Creativity, Inc. shows leaders how to balance and blend imagination with good business practices.

Notable Quote: “You are not your idea, and if you identify too closely with your ideas, you will take offense when they are challenged.”

Read Creativity, Inc .

2. Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear by Elizabeth Gilbert

big magic book cover

Big Magic is one of the bestselling creativity self help books. Written by the author of Eat, Pray, Love, this book shows readers how to face down the fear of failure and live more creatively and authentically in all aspects of life. The guide shows readers how to break down the barriers that inhibit creativity, such as resistance to rejection and anxiety about criticism. Gilbert tends to approach each piece of writing like a research project, and this project is no exception. The author fills the pages with fascinating facts and anecdotes to support her ideas and mantras. Big Magic gives readers the confidence and permission to be bolder and more imaginative in both personal and professional capacities.

Notable Quote: “You’re not required to save the world with your creativity. Your art not only doesn’t have to be original, in other words, it also doesn’t have to be important.”

Read Big Magic .

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3. Creativity: Flow and the Psychology of Discovery and Invention by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi

creativity the psychology of discovery and invention book cover

Creativity: Flow and the Psychology of Discovery and Invention is an in-depth analysis of the creative process, particularly the periods of deep focus known as “flow.” Renowned psychologist Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi has researched flow states extensively throughout his career, and published the bestseller Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience. In this work, he uses a sociological approach to identify the elements that contribute to creativity and explain the importance of imagination and innovation to society and culture at large. The author’s intention is not to write a how-to guide, but rather to present a historically and scientifically-backed overview of creativity readers can use as a basis for self-growth. Creativity: Flow and the Psychology of Discovery and Invention sets out to answer the question “what is creativity,” and in doing so maps out a blueprint for readers to become more curious, inventive, and prolific in their own creative lives.

Notable Quote: “Creative individuals are remarkable for their ability to adapt to almost any situation and to make do with whatever is at hand to reach their goals.”

Read Creativity: Flow and the Psychology of Discovery and Invention .

4. Steal Like an Artist: 10 Things Nobody Told You About Being Creative by Austin Kleon

steal like an artist book cover

Steal Like an Artist revolves around the idea that artists influence other artists. Few pieces of work are truly unique or original, as most art draws inspiration from other creative works. Instead of trying to avoid this impact, great artists channel the influences and reform these ideas into something new. Following this mantra, Steal Like an Artist lays out ten principles for modern artists to produce and share work in the current moment. The tone is conversational, the sentiments are short, and the pages contain a wealth of illustrations and quotes, making the book a quick and easy read. This guide is handy for moments when creatives could use a burst of motivation.

Notable Quote: “Your job is to collect good ideas. The more good ideas you collect, the more you can choose from to be influenced by.”

Read Steal Like an Artist .

5. Real Artists Don’t Starve: Timeless Strategies for Thriving in the New Creative Age by Jeff Goins

real artists don't starve book cover

Real Artists Don’t Starve sets out to overturn the myth that creators must suffer and starve for their art. The book shows how creative businesses are still businesses, and working effectively in creative fields requires strategy. Jeff Goins explores the tactics that make artists successful, such as learning from mentors, seeking out patrons, joining and staying active in creative communities, and diversifying portfolios. Real Artists Don’t Starve proves that it is possible to make a living from art, and lays out a step-by-step guide to becoming a full-time, fully-funded creative professional.

Notable Quote: “Creativity is not about being original; it’s about learning to rearrange what has already been in a way that brings fresh insight to old material.”

Read Real Artists Don’t Starve .

6. Creativity: A Short and Cheerful Guide by John Cleese

creativity a short and cheerful guide book cover

Creativity: A Short and Cheerful Guide is a collection of reflections about the creative life and process from famous comedian John Cleese. The tone of the text is just as insightful as it is entertaining. While Cleese brings the humor and levity you would expect of him, he also treats his subject with reverence and provides intelligent and practical advice for living and working creatively. The author drops nuggets and knowledge that are useful and applicable to all creative processes and professions. For example, overcome panic in early stages of the process, steer clear of cockiness, and ask for second opinions. Creativity: A Short and Cheerful Guide is a speed read that lives up to its title by delivering concise truths about the creative process.

Notable Quote: “The greatest killer of creativity is interruption. It pulls your mind away from what you want to be thinking about. Research has shown that, after an interruption, it can take eight minutes for you to return to your previous state of consciousness, and up to twenty minutes to get back into a state of deep focus.”

Read Creativity: A Short and Cheerful Guide .

7. HBR’s 10 Must Reads on Creativity by The Harvard Business Review

HBR on creativity book cover

HBR’s 10 Must Reads on Creativity is a curated collection of essays about inventiveness from experts and leaders in various industries. This anthology contains a handpicked selection of the most interesting publications on the topic from The Harvard Business Review, including “How to Build a Culture of Originality,” and “Strategy Needs Creativity.” The author lineup includes thought leaders such as Adam Grant, Ed Catamull, and Tom and David Kelley. HBR’s 10 Must Reads on Creativity is like a “greatest hits” of corporate creativity, and serves as a firm foundation for any employee or manager looking for tips on becoming more innovative and impactful.

Notable Quote: “The world seems to divide into “creatives” and “noncreatives,” and too many people consciously or unconsciously resign themselves to the latter category.”

Read HBR’s 10 Must Reads on Creativity .

8. Catching the Big Fish: Meditation, Consciousness, and Creativity by David Lynch

catching the big fish book cover

Catching the Big Fish is a collection of meditations on creativity and art from legendary filmmaker David Lynch. The book gets its title from the idea, “Ideas are like fish. If you want to catch little fish, you can stay in the shallow water. But if you want to catch the big fish, you’ve got to go deeper.” Lynch shares similar sentiments and observations about creativity throughout this work, as well as giving a window into the intricacies of his own creative process. The book is a must-read for fans, seekers of expert creative advice, or anyone interested in what makes Lynch’s particularly unique mind tick. Catching the Big Fish is akin to getting a pep talk or hearing a lecture from Lynch directly.

Notable Quote: “Stay true to yourself. Let your voice ring out, and don’t let anybody fiddle with it. Never turn down a good idea, but never take a bad idea.”

Read Catching the Big Fish .

9. The Myths of Creativity: The Truth About How Innovative Companies and People Generate Great Ideas by David Burkus

the myths of creativity book cover

The Myths of Creativity seeks to debunk common conceptions of creativity and demystify the practice of imagination. The book scrutinizes ten different tropes such as “the lone creator myth,” and “the eureka myth.” David Burkus explains why common wisdom surrounding these ideas is wrong and analyzes how these processes actually play out in the real world. In leading an expose on the romance surrounding imagination and creation, the book empowers readers to be more innovative and daring and make more attempts at invention. The Myths of Creativity sets out to lay bare the realities of inspiration and creative work and the origins of new ideas.

Notable Quote: “Creative ideas make people uncomfortable. It turns out that, at least subconsciously, we can have a hard time recognizing ideas as both new and useful at the same time. This cognitive dissonance between creativity and practicality may actually create a subtle bias against creative ideas.”

Read The Myths of Creativity .

10. Wired to Create: Unraveling the Mysteries of the Creative Mind by Scott Barry Kaufman and Carolyn Gregoire

wired to create book cover

Wired to Create is a scientific journey into the creative mind. The chapters explore common traits of highly creative people, such as passion, intuition, sensitivity, and the ability to channel adversity into art. The text also touches on the messiness of many historical figures’ lives and processes, such as Picasso, David Foster Wallace, and Frida Kahlo. The book sets out to explore and explain seeming contradictions between what we as a society understand about creativity and how the trait manifests. Wired to Create is a quest to understand the hyper-inventive mind and a bid to pinpoint the qualities that make creatives tick and thrive.

Notable Quote: “The common strands that seemed to transcend all creative fields was an openness to one’s inner life, a preference for complexity and ambiguity, an unusually high tolerance for disorder and disarray, the ability to extract order from chaos, independence, unconventionality, and a willingness to take risks.”

Read Wired to Create .

11. The Accidental Creative: How to Be Brilliant at a Moment’s Notice by Todd Henry

the accidental creative book cover

The Accidental Creative is one of the best creativity books for adults. This guide seeks to overturn the notion that the creative process relies entirely on inspiration and is unpredictable and uncontrollable. Todd Henry suggests that there are habits and conditions one can cultivate to foster innovation and increase the likelihood of creative breakthroughs. The book advocates for managing the energy and relationships that feed into creativity and urges readers not to dull their spark by overextending themselves and overpacking their schedules. The Accidental Creative shows that while we cannot always control when or how inspiration will strike, we can make room for it by optimizing our environment to be more conducive to creativity.

Notable Quote: “You need to create space for your creative process to thrive rather than expect it to operate in the cracks of your frenetic schedule.”

Read The Accidental Creative .

12. Where Good Ideas Come From: The Natural History of Innovation by Steven Johnson

where good ideas come from book cover

Where Good Ideas Come From is one of the best books on innovation. The book explores different inventions and inventors throughout history and provides more background information about these stories. Steven Johnson shows that the most revolutionary ideas hardly ever come down to a single “a-ha” moment, as pop culture likes to suggest, but rather, are byproducts of a variety of influences and a wealth of experimentation. The book spans centuries of innovation, from Darwin’s notebooks, to Freud’s sessions to the bright and colorful halls of Google. Where Good Ideas Come From shows the work that leads to breakthroughs and gives readers ideas about how to set the stage for inspiration.

Notable Quote: “Being right keeps you in place. Being wrong forces you to explore.”

Read Where Good Ideas Come From .

13. Daily Rituals: How Artists Work by Mason Currey

daily rituals book cover

Daily Rituals: How Artists Work provides a window into the habitual behaviors of history’s most creative figures. Mason Currey outlines the everyday routines of visionaries such as Andy Warhol, Charles Darwin, Jane Austen, and Pablo Picasso, occasionally lifting pages directly from the artists’ diaries and letters to show their schedules. The book uses a mix of contemporary and historical figures. While there are some observable patterns across the rituals of these creative revolutionaries, the artists employ a wide range of approaches. The variety of these methods can inspire readers willing to experiment to find the system that fits best. In fact, some of the behaviors are downright strange, and it is just as fun to read about artists’ quirks as entertainment value as to mine the book for practical tips.

Notable Quote: “A solid routine fosters a well-worn groove for one’s mental energies and helps stave off the tyranny of moods.”

Read Daily Rituals: How Artists Work , and check out more time management books.

14. Creative Confidence: Unleashing the Creative Potential Within Us All by Tom Kelley and David Kelley

creative confidence book cover

Creative Confidence aims to overturn the myth that only some folks are creative. While certain individuals may be more prone to imaginative thinking than others, the authors insist that all people have the capacity for creativity. The book shows readers how to practice and nurture the skill through methods such as adopting a design-thinking approach, planning out the process, pushing through fear and doubt, and examining ideas with a fresh perspective. Creative Confidence shows that the only thing necessary to reach full creative potential is a slight tweak in mindset and shift in behavior.

Notable Quote: “That combination of thought and action defines creative confidence: the ability to come up with new ideas and the courage to try them out.”

Read Creative Confidence .

Final Thoughts

Most folks think that creativity is a natural instinct or a talent. However, creativity is a capacity that exists in all human beings. While not every professional will devote their lives to making art, most professionals need imagination and innovation throughout their careers. Books about creativity can take your professional journey to the next level. Reading these books is a way to deepen your creative instincts and channel your ideas into productive results. These guides give structures and frameworks to out-of-the-box thinking, provide the motivation to take risks and try new concepts, and suggest exercises and tips that help make creativity a habit.

For more reading suggestions check out these books on startups and these guides to teamwork .

FAQ: Creativity books

Here are answers to common questions about creativity books.

What are creativity books?

Creativity books are guides that teach readers how to be more imaginative and innovative and generate new ideas. These works tend to be both inspirational and informative in nature, and deal with subjects such as brainstorming, collaborating, and building productive habits. Many of these books also analyze the traits and routines of famous artists and inventors.

What are some good creativity books for work?

Some good creativity books for work include Creativity, Inc. by Ed Catmull and Amy Wallace, HBR’s 10 Must Reads on Creativity by The Harvard Business Review, and The Myths of Creativity by David Burkus.

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Author: Angela Robinson

Marketing Coordinator at teambuilding.com. Team building content expert. Angela has a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing and worked as a community manager with Yelp to plan events for businesses.

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15 Best Books On Creativity 2024 (Top Selling)

Best Books On Creativity - NutMegEducation

While many are born with creative minds, many learn about their true creative potential throughout their lives. The truth is, everyone has their own creativity. All it takes is the willingness to dive deep into knowing yourself and exploring your creative side. 

Reading the best books on creativity helps in learning how to use your potential to be the best, generate ideas, and transform into a better creative person that can conquer the world!

Reading books written by people based on their experience will never be a wrong investment! Fostering creativity brings you a step closer to success. With thousands of books available online about creativity, I  have picked our top 15 favorites from the vast catalog! 

As a constant reader, I’m always on the hunt to determine my next read, and creativity is a niche that always amazes me. All the books mentioned in my list will help you learn how to overcome creative blocks, learn more about creativity, practical life lessons to make the most of your creative habits, and how to use your creativity to your best potential!

With that, let’s get into our list below!

Table of Contents

1. The War of Art by Steven Pressfield

2. it’s not how good you are, it’s how good you want to be, by paul arden, 3. thinking, fast and slow, 4. creativity, inc: by ed catmull, 5. flow: the psychology of optimal experience, 6. lateral thinking, by edward de bono, 7. catching the big fish by david lynch, 8. show your work by austin kleon, 9. steal like an artist: by austin kleon, 10. the creative habit by twyla tharp, 11. think like da vinci, by michael gelb, 12. it’s never too late to begin again -by julia cameron, 13. the accidental creative: how to be brilliant at a moment’s notice by todd henry, 14. making ideas happen: overcoming the obstacles between vision & reality – scott belsky, 15. damn good advice (for people with talent) – george lois, final thoughts: best books on creativity (2023) , top 15 best books on creativity (an overview).

Here is a table showing the best books on creativity to boost your creativity in 2023.

Now let us have a look at each book in-depth below.

For any user who is in the creative field, understand the struggle of having a creativity block. We often feel passionate about our work. We know what we want to do, and a burning fire exists. However, sometimes the greatest creative-minded people also find themselves in a creative rut. 

Best Books On Creativity - The war Of Art

Steven Pressfield shed light on how to push yourself through the best and overcome your creativity block. The author relates the creativity block to war with yourself. Whether you are a designer or a writer, Steven has poured his thoughts into this book to help you win the battle against yourself and bring the best of your creativity. 

Being one of the best-selling books , it’s Not How Good You Are, It’s How Good You Want To Be is a short yet inspiring book. Paul Arden is one of the top advertising gurus, and through this book, he shares how every person is capable of making the impossible possible. He sheds light on some crucial topics like how to unleash your full potential, problem-solving, making mistakes and overcoming them, and more. 

It’s Not How Good You Are, It’s How Good You Want To Be,

In the end, you don’t have to be the most intelligent person in the room. I suggest the book to anyone who wants a little push to play their cards right with unique insights. Moreover, everything written in the book can be implemented in modern life. 

If you are a reader, there are chances that you may have come across Thinking, Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman. In this book, the author has explained perfectly about our minds through practical insights. The language used is more conversational, which makes grasping the author’s thoughts easy. Moreover, Daniel explains our brain’s two systems -one is intuitive, emotional, and fast. The second system is slower, more logical, and more deliberative. 

Thinking, Fast and Slow

Throughout the book, Daniel also helps readers understand how both the systems of our brains work. Once you know the working of your brain’s system, decision-making can be simpler -personally and professionally. 

Written directly by the president and co-founder of Pixar Animation, Ed Catmull uses his years of experience to offer insights on various crucial subjects. As Ed belongs to the creative work field, he puts a spotlight on how you can thrive in creativity and perform at your best standards. Besides helping explore creativity, Ed also focuses on building a successful business and merging both to get the best outcome. Overall, it is our top pick for business creativity books!

Creativity, Inc: by Ed Catmull

Coming from psychologist Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, the book explores the psychology of flow. The author believes the conscious mind is the secret to improving the quality of life and takes a deep dive into learning the psychology of flow and how to attain that state. Works also work as a self-help book. By the end, you will learn how to achieve the right state of mind and boost your creativity. 

Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience

Personally, I loved how the author teaches you that your happiness doesn’t come from what happens to you. Instead, how you decide to make sense of that reality is what determines your happiness and creativity. 

Every individual has a different approach when it comes to thinking. In school, you are taught how to think about certain aspects. However, these methods differ from the real-time approach. Most humans learn how to think from experiences in their lives. Edward explains the goodness of vertical thinking and takes you a step closer to a creative and better problem-solving approach. 

Lateral Thinking, By Edward De Bono

The book explores a step-by-step process of lateral thinking and how to become a better thinker. The reason why I added the book to our list is that thinking affects every aspect of our lives. Moreover, if you are a beginner in creative writing books, Lateral Thinking will be the best start!

David Lynch, one of the prominent filmmakers, shares his observations and sentiments about creativity. The author titled the book ‘catching the big fish -meditation, consciousness, and creativity, which comes from a straightforward yet powerful thought. The idea behind the title is that if you want to catch a small fish, you stay near the shallow area. However, if you are keen to catch the bigger fish, you dive deep. He also explains the effect of meditation on bringing the best creativity out. 

Catching the Big Fish by David Lynch

Learning meditation and consciousness and connecting all three will help you bring the best version of your mind. You can learn from David’s experience how to capture and work with ideas!

Many people are blessed with a creative mind. From childhood, you can notice the spark within a creative person, but in the end, earning through your creativity brings tons of challenges along. Through Show Your Work, Austin brings all the practical tips to help people find you and how you can make money with your creativity. 

Show Your Work by Austin Kleon

Additionally, since many fear talking and sharing our thoughts with the community, Austin provides real-life methods to put ourselves in public. Lastly, I loved how he also shared ideas about balancing oversharing and sharing to get the most out of your creativity. 

If you are an artist who is into drawing and art, Steal Like an Artist is a book I recommend picking. The book is also excellent when you need a motivational push to create your art. Austin Kleon shares insights on being the best artist through this book. The main mantra that the book is written on is every artist influences another artist. The process of creating art from scratch is excellent. Although it is undeniable that each piece of art is unique, many artworks rise from other artists’ influence. 

Steal Like an Artist: by Austin Kleon

The primary motive of an artist should be to collect as many good ideas as possible. Your artwork will reflect how well you grasp ideas and motivation from other artists. Austin wrote this book with the idea of how you can be a great artist without being a genius. All you need to do is be your authentic self to exile as an artist. The book explains everything about creating the best artworks with creative illustrations and quotes insights, making it easier and more engaging to read. 

Twyla is a leading choreographer, and throughout her life, she has learned how to make her creativity a habit. In the book, Twyla shares her experience about the same. The idea of the book revolves around allowing yourself to be a creative person. Once you let yourself be creative, the book helps explore how you can make rational decisions to make creativity a daily part of your life. 

The Creative Habit by Twyla Tharp

To make creativity a part of your life, all you need is the willingness to do so. By writing this self-help book, Twyla provides more than 30 practical lessons and exercises from her 35 years of experience that you can implement in your life!

Learn from the greatest genuine of all time’s principles through the excellent explanations by Michael! Leonardo Da Vinci was undoubtedly one of the greatest artists we have seen. Besides being the greatest artist world has witnessed, he is also well-known for his other talents and skills. Throughout his life, Da Vinci led his life around various principles, out of which seven were mainly known and shared with the world. Michael Gelb studies each principle and helps you understand how to use Da Vinci’s principles to make the most of your creative mind! 

Think Like Da Vinci, By Michael Gelb

There are various practical tasks and exercises in the book that you can use. One of the best exercises you should follow is the ten power questions. The book will help you learn how to nurture creativity through the principle of ‘Curiousita,’ meaning one should always keep their curiosity alive by asking questions to the world! 

It comes as no surprise that most of us think that retirement is the end of our lives. When we speak about retirement, it is always about living in your house without any crucial tasks. Often, some people turn down their dreams to make stable earnings. Whether it is a corporate job or quitting their creative field. Julia Cameron has written a step-by-step guide on how you can find your dreams and unleash your creative side even after retirement. 

It's Never Too Late to Begin Again -By Julia Cameron

The book contains real-life examples and stories of people who found their happiness and pursuits after retirement. The title ‘it is never too late to begin again’ perfectly fits what the book offers. Life is too short not to try new things. With this book, you can understand how to find your freedom and make the most of your time through practical lessons and tips!

Whether you are an artist, creative person, or a business person, creativity is essential in every field. Moreover, every working individual is demanded to be creative irrespective of their working niche. In the book ‘The Accidental Creative,’ Todd focuses on five key elements to nurture creativity. These five elements include Hours, relationships, focus, stimuli, and energy. Throughout the book, Todd breaks down and examines each principle briefly to help readers discover their creative rhythm. 

The Accidental Creative: How to Be Brilliant at a Moment’s Notice by Todd Henry

Additionally, you will also learn how overpacking your schedule affects creativity and find practical methods to discover your creativity. Lastly, I suggest reading the book to anyone who wants guidance on learning the art of creativity and being productive more than you can think of! 

Many people have fantastic ideas but often fail to put them into real life. Bringing your ideas into real life seems like the most significant challenge sometimes. Additionally, many constantly talk about new ideas and dreams but lack the guidance to implement them in real life. As the title suggests, Making Ideas Happen is one of the greatest books for people struggling to bring their vision to life. 

 Making Ideas Happen

The author guides us through how one can overcome obstacles that fall between our vision and reality. With practical advice that one can implement in today’s life, you will learn about different aspects and perspectives through this book. Note that the book is not just ‘another creative book.’ Scott spent over six years of his life studying and interviewing hundreds of people to come up with the most effective strategies and advice!

George Lois is a genius and a pioneer of the creative revolution. Being a designer and advertiser for years, George wrote this book to share his wisdom based on personal experience. He gives readers an insight into everything he has learned so far that has helped him stay creative and always on top! 

 Damn Good Advice

Throughout the book, one can find inspiration, facts, practical advice, and more to become one of the greatest designers of all time. The book primarily focuses on designers with anecdotes. Moreover, it also shares business advice along with how you can boost your creativity and productivity. So, if you are into designing, Damn Good Advice should be your next read for grasping wise words from the professional himself!

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Being constantly creative is something that we all strive for. With so much on your plate, it can be tricky always be creative and thrive constantly! 

But, after reading various books on creativity, if there is one thing that I have made a life motto is that you are never too late to explore your mind. Understanding your mind and right mindset will always bring the best side -professionally and personally. 

If you are looking for our recommendation to get started with a creative book initially, pick The War of Art! 

I hope my list of best creative books helped you schedule all your next reads. Do you have any creative book recommendations I should add to my list? Let me know in the comment section below! 

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I am Shelley Walsh

The 10 Best Books on Creativity (To enrich your mind)

All of these books are classics and must reads for anyone who wants to be more creative. When you've read them, read them again. And again.

Author Shelley Walsh

Date April 16, 2020

Reading Time 9 minutes

I read. A lot.

Alongside swimming, reading is my passion and the love of my life.

As a child I used to devour books, often in one evening sitting and I could always be found curled up entertaining myself with an Enid Blyton and then progressing to Stephen King in my early teens. Going to bed early (and I mean 7pm early) is my guilty pleasure so that I can relax and read. On holiday, after swimming at sunrise, I just want to chill out and catch up on reading. Easily pleased (kind of).

Over the last seven years, I started to progress my writing and as Stephen King recommends, if you want to write, you must read a lot and then write a lot. I began to research about creativity and thinking skills and working my way through and devouring a library of greats expanded my mind and taught me so much. Over the last seven years, my personal growth and ways of thinking have accelerated more than I experienced in the first 37 years of my life combined. If only I had done/known/been… etc. etc.

“ If you want to be a writer, you must do two things above all others: read a lot and write a lot. There’s no way around these two things that I’m aware of, no shortcut. ” Stephen King

A few years ago, I wrote a short ebook entitled What Is Creativity? and during that time I read almost every classic best book on creativity that I could find on the subject, alongside watching many videos and TED talks.

The following is my essential list for a curious and creative mind thirsty to absorb some goodness. All of these books and writers are unique, original thinkers and generally heavily cited (and plagiarised) online.

Sometimes, you read a book and it fills you with this weird evangelical zeal, and you become convinced that the shattered world will never be put back together unless and until all living humans read the book. ” John Green

The 10 Best Books on Creativity (To Improve Your Mind & Your Life)

Its not how good you are its how good you want to be by Paul Arden

10: It’s Not How Good You Are, It’s How Good You Want To Be , By Paul Arden

When Victoria Beckham was a teenager her ambition was to be ‘as famous as Persil Automatic’. At a young age, she knew she wanted to be a world brand, and become a world brand she did indeed! I don’t think it is any secret that Victoria was not blessed with being a talented singer, nor is she an actress or model. Although, she was very good at pointing and pouting.

It wasn’t how good she was that mattered, it was how good she wanted to be.

A short but powerfully inspiring book for creatives and designers, Paul Arden manages to puff the wind in your sails to realise that through grit and elbow grease you can do anything. Only if you think a little differently to everyone else.

“ If you can’t solve a problem, you’re playing by the rules. ” Paul Arden

It’s Not How Good You Are, It’s How Good You Want To Be , By Paul Arden

US – Buy Book Now UK – Buy Book Now

Think like da vinci by Michael Gelb

9: Think Like Da Vinci , By Michael Gelb

It could confidently be said, that Leonardo Da Vinci is one of the greatest minds the world has ever seen. Apart from being an artist, he had many accomplishments such as engineer, inventor, mathematician and architect to name a few. He is also credited with many inventions, most notable being an early helicopter and parachute.

Da Vinci attributed his astounding creative input to seven principles that he lived his life by and Think Like Da Vinci examines each of those principles, in turn, to help boost your own genius through a series of practical tasks.

My favourite principle is Curiosita, to be insatiably curious and forever asking questions. By constantly challenging the world through questions the mind expands inwardly searching for answers. The mental process stimulates the mind and nascent ideas are teased and nurtured into life.

The ten power questions exercise is a must.

Think Like Da Vinci , By Michael Gelb

start with why by Simon Sinek

8: Start with Why , By Simon Sinek

I ‘found’ Start With Why several years ago and it was a revelation in terms of understanding how you can inspire others. I began to integrate this learning into all my work projects by helping clients to define their ‘why’ as a foundation to build their marketing on.

If you have your own business, by defining your ‘why’ you can then develop a brand with irresistible heart and soul rather than ‘me too’ blandness. The emotional connection that you can cultivate with your audience will be far stronger than trying to sell your product based on price or features. Apple were the master at leveraging this.

“ If you hire people just because they can do a job, they’ll work for your money. But if you hire people who believe what you believe, they’ll work for you with blood and sweat and tears. ” Simon Sinek

The book can also help to define your own purpose. By writing out my ‘why’ it helped to focus my direction and purpose. Once you know your purpose in life, why you do what you do, everything else falls into place behind that.

Start with Why , By Simon Sinek

Confessions of an advertising man by David Ogilvy

7: Confessions Of An Advertising Man , By David Ogilvy

Long before Mad Men became popular, I discovered David Ogilvy and he was my secret. Or, so I thought. Until many others started sharing their secret too.

What I love about Ogilvy is that he went through so many different job roles until he found advertising. I myself had many random jobs from being an apple picker in Israel to a hair model for L’Oreal and I consider these experiences to be a better education than I ever found in university. Exposure to diverse roles and environments helps me to understand people better and ultimately makes me better at being creative and a marketer. You have to have a rich well of experience to draw on to be a good writer or creative.

I also respect how hard Ogilvy famously worked and the urgency with which he built his agency.

“ I had neither the time nor the money to wait. I was poor, unknown and in a hurry. ” David Ogilvy

This book is the essential reading for anyone who wants to lead or build a creative agency. Beautifully written, Ogilvy knew how to use words sparingly and to the point and it becomes clear as to why he was so successful.

Confessions Of An Advertising Man , By David Ogilvy

A technique for producing ideas by James Webb Young

6: A Technique For Producing Ideas , By James Webb Young

I used to consider thinking a mystical art that came from the ether that I had neither control nor understanding of. I couldn’t explain how I had ideas, I just did (with fingers crossed). When I began my research into thinking skills I learnt there was a formulaic process and as I understood how the brain worked I had insight into taking back control of this skill.

A tiny book of only 48 pages, you can read this within an hour. But don’t be dismissive, this is a concentrated powerhouse that can show you the steps to take to generate an idea.

A Technique For Producing Ideas , By James Webb Young

Made to stick by Chip and Dan Heath

5: Made To Stick , By Chip and Dan Heath

I work within online marketing as a content producer and have to generate creative ideas on a regular basis that not only encourage but insist others will share. It’s demanding and can be stressful. Most of my industry network turn to books on psychology and persuasion and I am grateful to the person who gave me this book as a gift (Paddy).

Chip and Dan isolate the six elements (SUCCESS) that contribute to making ideas ‘sticky’ and use a vast array of entertaining stories and metaphors to illustrate their point. I can’t stress enough just how useful and practical this book is for anyone working within an industry that relies on attention and clicks. Probably covers most of us.

This is a book that can help your career, and that’s a bold statement to make.

Made To Stick , By Chip and Dan Heath

Lateral Thinking by Edward de Bono

4: Lateral Thinking , By Edward De Bono

Surprisingly, at school, no one teaches you how to think; I mean really think. The only thinking skills that you do acquire are focused on a logical approach known as ‘vertical thinking’. Inherent with flaws, this system of encourages you to stop as soon as you reach the first solution to your problem, regardless of whether this is the best solution that you can find.

Lateral Thinking expands your mind to approach problem solving and creativity in a new way with a series of thinking skills that anyone can learn.

I have devoured most of Edward de Bonos books and scoured the internet searching for prehistoric TV footage of his teaching programmes. As an introduction, I recommend starting with this book and then progressing through his catalogue if you want to learn to be a better ‘thinker’.

Lateral Thinking , By Edward De Bono

The war of art by Steven Pressfield

3: The War of Art , By Steven Pressfield

For anyone who knows the pain of a blank piece of paper or, staring at the blinking cursor on the screen, fingers poised at the keyboard and mouse clutched in a sweating hand. Often, the thing we are supposed to do is the one thing we avoid the most. For me, it’s writing. I have been running from this for years; I feel the need to write, but I don’t know what to write.

“ Most of us have two lives. The life we live, and the unlived life within us. Between us stands resistance. ” Steven Pressfield

Steven uses short chapters and anecdotes to illustrate how we can overcome our demons to make a start on what we really want to do. Be it, write a book, start a business or swim the channel (I’m scared of jellyfish and dark water). Pressfield is such an outstanding writer that the years of discipline he has shown to sit daily and write pour out of the pages in the craftsmanship of his text.

This would be the third book that I would rescue from a burning building. I keep reading it over and over again.

The War of Art , By Steven Pressfield

The element by Ken Robinson

2: The Element , by Ken Robinson

As a creative, I’m sure you will relate to that compulsion that you have to create. You can’t do or be anything else. For me, this manifested as a need to work with my hands, to draw, to make things and to solve problems. As I have grown older, I have this burning sensation of energy in my solar plexus that compels me to write. I have no idea why and if I am honest, it scares me a little.

Ken Robinson delivered one of my favourite TED talks about how creativity is educated out of us . Ken is such an eloquent and dry humoured speaker that I bought all of his books and discovered my number two must read.

The Element  is described as ‘the point at which natural talent meets personal passion’. It’s about overcoming the frustration and disillusionment we feel in life when we are not being our true self and harnessing your inherent passion and purpose.

A book that is so inspiring I bought copies for all of my friends.

The Element , by Ken Robinson

Flow by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi

1: Flow , by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi

Have you ever experienced the feeling of being so involved with what you are doing that you transcend to a state of total focus completely unaware of anything other than the task in hand? It can temporarily remove you from all problems in your life and take you to an intensely joyful and creative state. As if everything in your life has aligned and you are fulfilling purpose in a spiritual way.

I get flow when I am absorbed in life drawing classes, when I am writing and for glorious moments in the pool when muscle memory takes over and I am a passenger within my body as I automatically glide through the water with perfect strokes. It’s beautiful and nothing else can match that feeling.

Mihaly (I can’t pronounce his surname) dissects the state of ‘flow’ and how we can achieve it.

Flow is a book that can change your life.

Flow , by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi

“If you don’t have time to read, you don’t have the time (or the tools) to write. Simple as that.” Stephen King

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best books on creativity reddit

Proactive Creative – Guides for Visual Artists

Creativity Ignition: Must-Read Books for Unleashing Creativity

12 Best Books on Creativity You Should Read

In this post will find some of the must-read non-fiction books on creativity written over the years. These books have helped me start, grow, and scale my creativity, and they’ll help you, too, to get more ideas and to learn how to be more creative.

12 Best Books On Creativity You Should Read

Best Books on Creativity

best books on creativity reddit

Flow by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi

Flow is a concept that explores those moments when you’re entirely immersed in an activity or subject that you don’t even notice that time has passed. Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi is the co-founder of positive psychology. The author was the first to identify and research the Flow concept. This excellent book is full of insights and engaging pictures on how to generate brilliant ideas and master the art of creative thinking.

best books on creativity reddit

The Laws Of Simplicity

In his book, John Maeda depicts ten laws for balancing simplicity and complexity in business, technology, and design .

John Maeda is an MIT Media Lab professor and a world-renowned graphic designer. He explains how we can redefine the notion of “improved” so that it doesn’t always mean something more; something added on.

“Simplicity is about subtracting the obvious, and adding the meaningful.”

best books on creativity reddit

Steal Like an Artist by Austin Kleon

This book is one of the best books about the creative process I’ve ever read. Austin Kleon is a New York Times bestselling author and artist who writes about practical and entertaining ideas you need to implement to improve your creativity and originality. Austin Kleon points out that many creative works in history are not 100% original.

Steal Like an Artist by Austin Kleon

Photo: Proactive Creative

“Stay Smart, stay out of debt, and risk being boring in the everyday world so that you have the space to be wild and daring in your imagination and your work.”

Austin Kleon

best books on creativity reddit

The War of Art by Steven Pressfield

The War of Art is an excellent book by the bestselling novelist Steven Pressfield. The author identifies the inside enemy that every one of us must face. He describes a battle plan to conquer this internal foe. This book shows Steven Pressfield how to achieve the greatest success in creative fields.

“ Don’t prepare. Begin. Our enemy is not lack of preparation. The enemy is resistance, our chattering brain producing excuses. Start before you are ready. ” “Our job in this lifetime is not to shape ourselves into some ideal we imagine we ought to be, but to find out who we already are & become it.” 

Quotes – Steven Pressfield 

The War of Art by Steven Pressfield

The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron

The Artist’s Way is a self-help book by Julia Cameron, who is full of insights on how to cultivate your creativity. This fantastic book features practical examples and exercises to help people with creative artistic recovery in gaining self-confidence in their creative talents and skills.

best books on creativity reddit

Imagine: How Creativity Works by Jonah Lehrer

This original book helps you defy common premises about life and creativity while arming you with the tools to live a successful creative life. You’ll discover how to live on your terms by exploring creative self-improvement. You’ll learn how to nurture your creativity with practical tips and real-life examples.

best books on creativity reddit

7 – Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert

In Big Magic, Miss Gilbert shares her wisdom and unique perspective on creativity. With profound empathy and radiant generosity. The book contains many anecdotes from the author’s personal life that you can relate to it.

best books on creativity reddit

Originals: How Non-Conformists Move the World by Adam Grant

Through this genius book, Adam Grant identifies the challenge of becoming original and choosing to experiment with novel ideas and values that go against the grain, battle conformity, and buck outdated traditions. Grant gives the tools needed to recognize a good idea and choose the right time to act, through studies and anecdotes. Original can be considered one of the creative thinking books.

best books on creativity reddit

How to Think Like Leonardo da Vinci: Seven Steps to Genius Every Day

Michael J. Gelb has taken one of the most brilliant minds ever to have existed and dissected the rituals, routines, and techniques used by Da Vinci to develop your mind into a limitless tool of creativity. For me, it is one of the best books for aspiring artists .

The author offers a step-by-step guide that helps you become more creative.

How to Think Like Leonardo da Vinci: Seven Steps to Genius Every Day

The Creative Habit: Learn It and Use It for Life by Twyla Tharp

Twyla Tharp is an American artist and author who lives and works in New York City. In her second book, Tharp intuitively demystifies the creative process, showing that it’s mostly a matter of discipline, habits, and hard work. She highlights the importance of rituals and routines in the path of being creative. Her advice is convenient and comes with examples and exercises.

“Creativity is not a gift from the gods, bestowed by some divine and mystical spark. It is the product of preparation and effort, and it’s within reach of everyone who wants to achieve it. All it takes is the willingness to make creativity a habit, an integral part of your life: ToIn order to be creative, you have to know how to prepare to be creative”

Twyla Tharp

best books on creativity reddit

A Whole New Mind by Daniel Pink

In an era of human fears concerning a world dominated by artificial intelligence, robotics, and automation. Daniel Pink makes a compelling argument that creativity is the only thing that can’t be outsourced and offers a guide to growing our creative thinking.

best books on creativity reddit

Design by Nature: Using Universal Forms and Principles in Design

Using universal forms and principles in Design, author Maggie Macnab, inspired by nature, takes you on a wonderful and eclectic journey examining the unending versatility of nature, showing how to uncover nature’s ingenuity and use it to create original and creative communications. Written for designers and creative thinkers of all types, this book will guide you through a series of incredible moments that describe relationships among nature, art, science, technology, and design.

If anyone has ever told you that you are not creative or if you doubt that you are a creative person, read these books, and you will change your opinion!

Do you know Any other books on creativity? Share with us below how much value they added to your creative life?!

Thanks for reading!

This post contains affiliate links. Proactive Creative may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you if you make a purchase.

best books on creativity reddit

Outmane is the founder of Proactive Creative. He is an artist/designer.

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Top 6 Books That Unleash Creativity Within You

By Laxmikant in Books on March 25, 2018

These books that will inspires your creativity

Everybody has a creative mind, but it requires a way to express it to the world. Creativity makes a person think a more productive way, find efficient solutions to improve human lives.

There are tons of books on unleashing creativity on the internet. But here in this article, I picked up 6 books that I personally read and are the most influenced and practical approach to creativity. These 6 books will help you to improve your thinking ability and unleash the potential of creativity and innovation with you.

See also: Investing Essentials: The 8 Best Investing Books in 2019

What is creativity?

Creativity is defined as the tendency to generate or recognize ideas, alternatives, or possibilities that may be useful in solving problems, communicating with others, and entertaining ourselves and others -Robert E. Franken

#1 Think Fast and Slow By  Daniel Kahneman

think fast and slow  a creativity books

The name of the book itself tells what the book is all about;   Daniel Kahneman is an Israeli-American Nobel literature in economic science and a psychologist. He pointed out two systems of thinking, think fast and slow. Two systems will not work simultaneously, but it’s about a situation where these two systems come into play.

The easiest way to increase happiness is to control your use of time. Can you find more time to do the things you enjoy doing – Daniel Kahneman

When a person thinking fast on a situation, his view will be different and that required but not for all situations. Some time slow thinking will help to understand the dimension of the situation and he can able to see more clear things which will result in a great positive decision.

In this book Kahneman explore a different type of exercise to engages the mind to find a solution.

This book must be read for students, business people, entrepreneurs, and who want to improve their decision-making ability.

Goodreads Rating: 4.13

#2 Art of Creative Thinking By Rod Judkins

art of creative thinking book

Creativity is not something that you are born with. It is how we have to develop through thinking. Creativity can improve the things which we see; creativity can help us to work efficiently.

The creative mind seeks chance and accident while everyone else seeks control and order – Rod Judkins

The book is written by Rod Judkins is a lecturer at Central St Martin’s. The book gives a step by step insight into how to develop and express creativity with some scenario and success story may help you to find a way to think and gives cue on creativity.

All the chapters in this book are short and insightful. You can pick any chapter and start reading there is no linear way to start from the first chapter.

Goodreads Rating: 4.07

#3 Making Ideas Happen By Scott Belsky

Making Ideas Happen a creative thinking book

Everybody gets Ideas in some way, Ideas will come when the mind is calm and still. An entrepreneur always concentrates on ideas when they get they immediately write it down and they will start working on it. Success is for only those who execute ideas.

Creativity is, quite simply, a genuine interest combined with initiative. -Scott Belsky

Creative people tend to have lots of ideas on how to improve product or service, but they have difficulties to execute those ideas. Everybody has lots of ideas they come and go, but success only comes to those who can execute those ideas into action.

Scott Belsky the author of this book, the book divided into three sections, Organization and Execution; the Forces of Community; Leadership Capacity. These three organized actions will help to execute any ideas into reality.

Goodreads Rating: 3.97

#4 Creative Confidence By David Kelley

Creative Confidence a creative thinking book

Creative Confidence is written by the founder of IDEO and Stanford design school David Kelley and Tom Kelley. They Identified principles and strategies to explore our creative potential and how we can approach and solved problems.

Striving for perfection can get in the way during the early stages of the creative process – David Kelley

This book gives some guidelines and examples of how design thinking created some great solutions. This book helps us on how to be more productive and successful in our business and career.

Goodreads Rating: 4.04

#5 Big Magic By Elizabeth Gilbert

Big Magic  by Elizabeth Gilbert, a creative living book

The universe buries strange jewels deep within us all, and then stands back to see if we can find them –  Elizabeth Gilbert

Elizabeth Gilbert shares her wisdom of the imaginative processes about creativity. Gilbert explains how curiosity leads to ideas, and when ideas are paid attention to, true magic can happen. She says, ” The idea will organize coincidences and portents to tumble across your path, to keep your interest keen everything you see and touch and do will remind you of the idea.

Goodreads Rating: 3.91

#6 The Artist’s Way By Julia Cameron

The artists way by Julia Cameron

Creativity – like human life itself – begins in darkness  – Julia Cameron

A decade-old Books on creativity but still more relevant books on creativity. Julia Cameron pointed out exercise and techniques to harness creativity within you.

Goodreads Rating: 3.90

Everybody has a creative mind, it is you that how to start implementing ideas into actions, Creativity helps the mind active and is always in search of a solution to problems.

Somebody will get creativity by actions or by work. most of us need to understand the mind concept, it requires some help. These books will help you to express your creativity with confidence.

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--> Pradeep Koshthi

Really very inspirational, Everybody has to read….

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[…] See also:Top 6 Books That Unleash Creativity Within You […]

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--> Kaveri Ekunde

Best collections of books on creativity with displaying rating made easy to choose from the list

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Best collections of creative books.. Very inspiring.. 😊😊

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 Toni Morrison in 1979.

Top 10 books about creative writing

From linguistics to essays by Zadie Smith and Toni Morrison, poet Anthony Anaxagorou recommends some ‘lateral’ ways in to a demanding craft

T he poet Rita Dove was once asked what makes poetry successful. She went on to illuminate three key areas: First, the heart of the writer; the things they wish to say – their politics and overarching sensibilities. Second, their tools: how they work language to organise and position words. And the third, the love a person must have for books: “To read, read, read.”

When I started mapping out How to Write It , I wanted to focus on the aspects of writing development that took in both theoretical and interpersonal aspects. No writer lives in a vacuum, their job is an endless task of paying attention.

How do I get myself an agent? What’s the best way to approach a publisher? Should I self-publish? There is never one way to assuage the concerns of those looking to make a career out of writing. Many labour tirelessly for decades on manuscripts that never make it to print. The UK on average publishes around 185,000 new titles per year, ranking us the third largest publishing market in the world, yet the number of aspiring writers is substantially greater.

Writers writing about writing can become a supercilious endeavour; I’m more interested in the process of making work and the writer’s perspectives that substantiate the framework.

There’s no single authority, anything is possible. All that’s required are some words and an idea – which makes the art of writing enticing but also difficult and daunting. The books listed below, diverse in their central arguments and genres, guide us towards more interesting and lateral ways to think about what we want to say, and ultimately, how we choose to say it.

1. The Hatred of Poetry by Ben Lerner An intellectual meditation on the cultural function of poetry. Less idealistic than other poetry criticism, Lerner puts forward a richly layered case for the reasons writers and readers alike turn to poetry, probing into why it’s often misconceived as elitist or tedious, and asks that we reconsider the value we place on the art form today.

2. Find Your Voice by Angie Thomas One of the hardest things about creative writing is developing a voice and not compromising your vision for the sake of public appeal. Thomas offers sharp advice to those wrestling with novels or Young Adult fiction. She writes with appealing honesty, taking in everything from writer’s block to deciding what a final draft should look like. The book also comes interspersed with prompts and writing exercises alongside other tips and suggestions to help airlift writers out of the mud.

3. Linguistics: Why It Matters by Geoffrey K Pullum If language is in a constant state of flux, and rules governing sentence construction, meaning and logic are always at a point of contention, what then can conventional modes of language and linguistics tell us about ourselves, our cultures and our relationship to the material world? Pullum addresses a number of philosophical questions through the scientific study of human languages – their grammars, clauses and limitations. An approachable, fascinating resource for those interested in the mechanics of words.

4. Madness, Rack, and Honey by Mary Ruefle The collected lectures of poet and professor Mary Ruefle present us with an erudite inquiry into some of the major aspects of a writer’s mind and craft. Ruefle possesses an uncanny ability to excavate broad and complex subjects with such unforced and original lucidity that you come away feeling as if you’ve acquired an entirely new perspective from only a few pages. Themes range from sentimentality in poetry, to fear, beginnings and – a topic she returns to throughout the book – wonder. “A poem is a finished work of the mind, it is not the work of a finished mind.”

Zadie Smith.

5. Feel Free by Zadie Smith These astute and topical essays dating from 2010 to 2017 demonstrate Smith’s forensic ability to navigate and unpack everything from Brexit to Justin Bieber. Dissecting high philosophical works then bringing the focus back on to her own practice as a fiction writer, her essay The I Who Is Not Me sees Smith extrapolate on how autobiography shapes novel writing, and elucidates her approach to thinking around British society’s tenuous and often binary perspectives on race, class and ethnicity.

6. Threads by Sandeep Parmar, Nisha Ramayya and Bhanu Kapil Who occupies the “I” in poetry? When poets write, are they personally embodying their speakers or are they intended to be emblematic of something larger and more complex? Is the “I” assumed to be immutable or is it more porous? These are the questions posited in Threads, which illuminates the function of the lyric “I” in relation to whiteness, maleness and Britishness. Its short but acute essays interrogate whiteness’s hegemony in literature and language, revealing how writers from outside the dominant paradigm are often made to reckon with the positions and perspectives they write from.

7. Mouth Full of Blood by Toni Morrison An urgent set of essays and lectures from the late Nobel prize winner that collates her most discerning musings around citizenship, race and art, as well as offering invaluable insight into the craft of writing. She reflects on revisions made to her most famous novel, Beloved, while also reflecting on the ways vernaculars can shape new stories. One of my favourite aphorisms written by Morrison sits on my desk and declares: “As writers, what we do is remember. And to remember this world is to create it.”

8. On Poetry by Jonathan Davidson Poetry can be thought of as something arduous or an exercise in analysis, existing either within small artistic enclaves or secondary school classrooms. One of the many strengths of Davidson’s writing is how he makes poetry feel intimate and personal, neither dry or remote. His approach to thinking around ways that certain poems affect us is well measured without being exclusive. A timely and resourceful book for writers interested in how poems go on to live with us throughout our lives.

9. Essays by Lydia Davis From flash fiction to stories, Davis is recognised as one of the preeminent writers of short-form fiction. In these essays, spanning several decades, she tracks much of her writing process and her relationship to experimentalism, form and the ways language can work when pushed to its outer limits. How we read into lines is something Davis returns to, as is the idea of risk and brevity within micro-fiction.

10. Essayism by Brian Dillon Dillon summarises the essay as an “experiment in attention”. This dynamic and robust consideration of the form sheds light on how and why certain essays have changed the cultural and political landscape, from the end of the Middle Ages to the present time. A sharp and curious disquisition on one of the more popular yet challenging writing enterprises.

How to Write It by Anthony Anaxagorou is published by Merky Books. To order a copy, go to guardianbookshop.com .

  • Creative writing
  • Toni Morrison
  • Zadie Smith
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The 10 Best Books for Creativity

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Need a creativity boost, looking for advice on creative problem-solving or considering a new path in life? Take a look at this list of 10 books on all things creative:

1. Creative Acts for Curious People: How to Think, Create, and Lead in Unconventional Ways

By Sarah Stein Greenberg

All problems require solutions, and Creative Acts for Curious People is here to help you learn how to find them. Authored by Sarah Stein Greenberg, the executive director of the Hasso Plattner Institute of Design (Stanford’s “d.school”), the book is a combination of stories and exercises intended to encourage the reader to face and overcome challenges in creative ways. 

Including activities such as “Units of Energy Critique,” meant to hone judgment and evaluation skills and “Expert Eyes,” meant to encourage the fostering of observational skills, the book is simultaneously educational and lighthearted, meant to teach without judgment of your current skill set. And for good reason—the unique activities in the book, each the product of a different inventive mind or minds, are also taught at d.school.

2. Rebel Ideas: The Power of Diverse Thinking

By Matthew Syed

No matter whether we’re problem-solving or just forming personal opinions, our worldview is greatly influenced by the voices around us. Wanting to surround ourselves with only those who agree with our point of view is natural—we prefer to be around people we agree with, and thus will be in less conflict with. However, doing so is a steep slope to confirmation bias as we create an “echo chamber” of our own opinions. 

In Rebel Ideas, Matthew Syed argues that we need to be surrounded with people who think differently than ourselves if we want to find the best results, as it is these varied opinions that allow teams to challenge each other and create new, better ideas. A mixture of case studies and insightful arguments drawing upon a range of fields, Rebel Ideas challenges its readers to leave their “echo chambers” and seek discomfort in order to maximize their potential.

3. Design Your Thinking: The Mindsets, Toolsets and Skill Sets for Creative Problem-Solving

By Pavan Soni

Creativity is nebulous, as fickle and elusive as a wary cat. As such, discipline is not a word often used in conjunction with creativity, and yet creativity thrives despite constraint all the time. In Design Your Thinking , author Pavan Soni discusses design thinking—a combination of creativity and discipline—and its uses in creative problem-solving. 

Soni’s design thinking framework is made up of five stages: “inspire,” “empathize and define,” “ideate,” “prototype and test,” and “scale.” With a focus on first finding a consumer need and then solving it, the model’s mixture of creative problem-solving skills and structured focus on a goal provide all the ingredients needed for success. When combined with studies and existing design thinking frameworks to create a toolbox of skills for individuals and businesses alike, Design Your Thinking is the perfect guide to creative problem-solving.

4. You Are an Artist: Assignments to Spark Creation

By Sarah Green

“You can be anything you want to be” may have lost its inspirational spark for most people, but in the case of You Are an Artist , it remains an honest sentiment. The collection of 50 assignments curated by author Sarah Green originated in her 2014 PBS series The Art Assignment , and 13 new challenges were commissioned in order to create the 2020 book. 

With no skill or expensive materials required and insight from some of the greatest creative minds to guide you, the book creates a non-judgemental and inspiring path to learning new artistic skills. A background discussion of art history techniques provides not only an interesting historical context to various art styles and practices, but also allows readers to see the trials and errors of past artists—and inspire them to become artists in their own right.

5. Life in the Studio: Inspiration and Lessons on Creativity

By Frances Palmer

Life in the Studio is not your average art book—it is a deep dive into the life of author Frances Palmer and the path that led her to become a potter and business owner, interspersed with photography and practical instructions for some of her pieces. 

Despite beginning her career path as an art historian, Palmer has been making art by hand since she began working with ceramics in 1987. From printmaker to cook to gardener to potter, her love of creating things for others to enjoy eventually led to the founding of her pottery business. Instead of a stagnant life that followed her original path, Palmer instead chose to explore all avenues available to her. The lessons learned along that path—one which has led to an enjoyable, hard-won life—are collected in the book alongside her amalgamation of creative pursuits to inspire readers on their own journey.

6. Mindwandering: How Your Constant Mental Drift Can Improve Your Mood and Boost Your Creativity

By Moshe Bar

Wandering minds are often considered a hindrance, an unnecessary and occasionally irritating interruption from the tasks at hand. Worries, doubts and ordinary distractions plague our thoughts throughout the day, breaking our focus. 

But what if there was a benefit to something people spend hours of their life trying to overcome? That’s where Mindwandering by Moshe Bar comes in. Head of the cognitive neuroscience lab at the Multidisciplinary Brain Research Center at Bar-Ilan University, Bar uses his background in neuroscience in combination with disciplines including psychology and philosophy to discuss the benefits of mind-wandering . From self-understanding to increased creativity, allowing—and knowing when to allow—a lapse in focus can enrich your life in ways you never imagined.

7. The Art of Noticing: 131 Ways to Spark Creativity, Find Inspiration, and Discover Joy in the Everyday

By Rob Walker

Most of us have become skilled at focusing on work. From students to employees to artists, the necessity of maintaining focus unites even the most opposite of professions. But how often do we take the time to focus on the world around us, instead of our next task? The focused eye can see expressions, clues and details in the world around them that are invisible to those who haven’t trained themselves to look.

In The Art of Noticing , Rob Walker shares tips and tricks for learning to see more in the people and places around us. With five sections—”looking,” “sensing,” “going places,” “connecting with others” and “being alone”—the book provides activities suited for any age. It asks its readers simply to remove themselves from work for just a little time each day, and instead choose to turn their attention to something that can be beneficial no matter their career.

8. The Entrepreneurial Artist: Lessons from Highly Successful Creatives

By Aaron Dworkin

Entrepreneurship and artistic ventures are not fields often combined—unless an artist has the time and money to create a business for themselves. But The Entrepreneurial Artist by Aaron Dworkin chooses to ignore that separation, instead focusing on instances both past and present where artists of various beginnings have managed to become both.

The book provides a mixture of personal anecdotes, examples of artists including Lin Manuel Miranda, Rachel Barton Pine, Marin Alsop and William Shakespeare, and summaries of the takeaways from each chapter. With personal interviews with eleven of the artists and Dworkin’s own insightful connection between entrepreneurship and art, The Entrepreneurial Artist is sure to be an inspiration to any creative mind.

9. Building a Second Brain: A Proven Method to Organize Your Digital Life and Unlock Your Creative Potential

By Tiago Forte

There is so much information all around us, and no one could be expected to remember even half of the input they receive in their lifetimes. That is where Building a Second Brain comes in. Tiago Forte, founder of Forte Labs, has combined the power of our minds and that of technology to create a system to preserve the insights, inspirations, and other important information that may otherwise be forgotten.

The second brain is not only for storage—the benefit of having all of this information in one place is the connections and creations we can make from seeing them all together, instead of focusing on it once and forgetting later. One way to navigate these potential connections is Forte’s “C.O.D.E” method—”capture,” “organize,” “distill” and “express.” Used in combination, these steps create a pathway to incredible ideas. This, alongside Forte’s other insights, create a methodology that will allow readers to build brilliant ideas . 

10. Burn After Writing

By Sharon Jones

Journaling—even guided journaling—is no new concept. It has been recommended for processes from creative thought to changing mindsets to thinking through difficult emotions. Burn After Writing, however, does not ask only one question. Instead, Sharon Jones asks you many—all with the purpose of understanding your past, your present and your future, and the insights the combination of all three can reveal about who you are. Future, in particular, allows you to consider who you may one day become—and perhaps consider new paths that had seemed impossible before now. 

While no locked diary or hidden book of secrets, the journal is still just for you—it does not ask you to share any of your insights. And when you’re done, you can keep it around to remember what you learned, or you can follow the instructions in the title—just remember that the matches on the cover are not included. 

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best books on creativity reddit

The Best Places to Find Book Recommendations on Reddit

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Erin Mayer is a writer and editor specializing in personal essays and musings about face creams that probably won't cure her anxiety (but hey, it's worth a shot). Her work has appeared on Bustle, Literary Hub, Man Repeller, Business Insider, and more. She spends her free time drafting tweets she never finishes and reading in front of the television. Find her at erinmayer.com .

View All posts by Erin Mayer

Reddit can be a bit of a black hole productivity-wise, but it’s a great place to find your next read. There are dozens of bookish subreddits out there, all of which have slightly different themes. From general book discussions to genre-specific ones, you can find a community of readers that suit your needs. Many book-related subreddits host their own book clubs or author AMAs that can give you ideas and help you branch out of your reading comfort zone. Keep scrolling for the best places to find Reddit book recommendations.

The main books subreddit is a logical place to start. More niche topic discussions tend to get a little bit lost in the shuffle, but there is a weekly recommendations thread where users can make specific requests and browse the suggestions that others have made. I also love checking out the postings about what people have started and finished reading that week. Often, these comments are accompanied by mini reviews that can help you flesh out (or trim down) your TBR.

This is a smaller subreddit targeted toward people who are participating in the annual 52 Book Challenge. Users update with the progress they make each month on their yearly reading goal (it’s open to readers whose goals are smaller or larger than 52 books in a year, as well). While less discussion-heavy than r/books, lesser-known titles appear fairly often.

On the flip side, r/TrueLit is a discussion-based subreddit with a focus on classics and literary fiction. Like r/Books, there’s also a weekly recommendations thread that allows users to make requests. If you’re feeling burnt out on fantasy and YA, or simply want to branch out of your comfort zone, this could be a great subreddit to check out.

r/SuggestMeABook

r/suggestmeabook is the  subreddit to hit up for strictly recommendations and zero fluff. It’s a pretty active subreddit, so lively conversations abound. Some recent popular posts include one on quarantine reading lists , recommendations based on quotes , and books that shouldn’t be made into movies .  Suggest Me a Book is one of my personal favorite places to check out on Reddit.

r/BookSuggestions

This is another subreddit entirely devoted to book recommendations. Users make individual posts requesting highly specific suggestions. You’ll find people asking for recs based on other books they loved or general interests. It’s not quite as lively as r/suggestmeabook, but might be a good option if you’re not finding what you’re looking for there.

While not recommendations in the strictest sense, this Reddit-based book club might encourage you to try something different. If you’re following along with the group’s current read, you can participate in real time discussions. Or just back-read the threads to catch up later. There’s always a helpful schedule provided to breakdown that month’s book into manageable chunks, too.

r/Audiobooks

Join this subreddit for all things audio. You’ll find discussions of the best audiobook narrators, as well as people weighing in on recent audio reads and new releases.

A subreddit geared toward young adult readers, but welcoming to all age groups. There’s plenty of chatter about popular authors like Cassandra Clare, Tahereh Mafi, and Neal Shusterman, as well as under-rated titles.

Genre-Specific Subreddits

Don’t want to mess around with recommendations outside of your chosen genre? Dipping into romance or fantasy for the first time? There’s an individual subreddit for just about every genre. Some of the most popular ones are r/Fantasy , r/ComicBooks  , and r/RomanceBooks . r/Literature doesn’t have a specific genre attached, but tends to feature more classics and general “literary fiction” recommendations, as well as poetry, short stories, and more.

Spending hours on Reddit is one way to get book ideas. Another option? Sign up for Book Riot’s TBR subscription service for a new personalized recommendation from a real-life book expert (or bibliologist ) each month.

best books on creativity reddit

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  1. Best Books About Creativity and Creative Thinking : r/Creativity

    Best Books About Creativity and Creative Thinking. Thank you!!! Thank for this ! Now I've had idea on what books to read to improve my creativity. 7.3K subscribers in the Creativity community. Talent and Creativity is a confluence of Knowledge + Imagination + Critical Thinking Anything that….

  2. The 10 Best Books on Creativity to Unleash Your Inner Genius

    The Icarus Deception. The Icarus Deception by Seth Godin is a book that has had a profound impact on me. It was the catalyst that inspired me to stop waiting for a publisher's approval and take the leap to self-publish "The Art of Being Unmistakable," which went on to become a Wall-Street Journal Best-Seller.

  3. 12 Best Creativity Books For Your Library (2024)

    9. Lateral Thinking: Creativity Step by Step by Edward De Bono. 10. Show Your Work! 10 Ways to Share Your Creativity and Get Discovered by Austin Kleon. 11. The Power of Creativity By Bryan Collins. 12. The Creative Act: A Way of Being by Rick Rubin. A Final Word On The Best Creativity Books.

  4. 40 of the Best Books to Unlock Your Creativity

    These 40 books can help unlock and boost your creative thought. 01. Thinking Fast and Slow - Daniel Kahneman. Thinking Fast and Slow - Daniel Kahneman. Lazy thinking is the bane of creativity. In Thinking Fast and Slow, Nobel Prize winning economist Daniel Kahneman talks about how there are really two different thinking systems within the ...

  5. [Suggest a Book] Novels about creativity : r/BooksAndFilms

    Sort by: Add a Comment. [Suggest a Book] Books about building partnerships? [Suggest a Book] beauty and the beast but no spicy scenes/ya. 508 subscribers in the BooksAndFilms community. It is our intent and purpose to foster and encourage in-depth discussion about all things related to….

  6. 15 Books About Creativity to Get You Out of a Creative Rut

    3. Creative Confidence by Tom Kelley & David Kelley. Creative Confidence is a book for anyone who mistakenly believes that only "artsy" types can be creative. It shows you how to use creative thinking to be more productive and successful in any aspect of your life. Brothers Tom and David Kelley know their stuff.

  7. The Best Books On Creativity

    The best books on creativity span regions of the book space and all of these books were foundations for my own work. My first choice is The Social Psychology of Creativity by Teresa Amabile - to me, this is THE seminal academic work on creativity. It really launched the study of creativity, so most of what we know has its roots in this work.

  8. 14 Best Creativity Books To Read in 2024

    Read Creativity, Inc. 2. Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear by Elizabeth Gilbert. Big Magic is one of the bestselling creativity self help books. Written by the author of Eat, Pray, Love, this book shows readers how to face down the fear of failure and live more creatively and authentically in all aspects of life.

  9. 15+ Best Books On Creativity To Read In 2023 (Top Picks)

    Best Books On Creativity (An Overview) 1. The War of Art by Steven Pressfield. 2. It's Not How Good You Are, It's How Good You Want To Be, By Paul Arden. 3. Thinking, Fast and Slow. 4. Creativity, Inc: by Ed Catmull.

  10. The 10 Best Books on Creativity (To enrich your mind)

    3: The War of Art, By Steven Pressfield. For anyone who knows the pain of a blank piece of paper or, staring at the blinking cursor on the screen, fingers poised at the keyboard and mouse clutched in a sweating hand. Often, the thing we are supposed to do is the one thing we avoid the most. For me, it's writing.

  11. 6 Of The Best Books On Creativity To Inspire Your Art

    Creativity, Inc. by Ed Catmull. Written by the co-founder of Pixar Animation, Creativity, Inc. is an inspiring book about creativity in business. This book is for anyone who strives for originality in their work, whether an employee hoping to improve or a manager trying to inspire. Catmull gives insight into how Pixar Animation bolsters ...

  12. 12 Best Books On Creativity You Should Read

    7 - Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert. In Big Magic, Miss Gilbert shares her wisdom and unique perspective on creativity. With profound empathy and radiant generosity. The book contains many anecdotes from the author's personal life that you can relate to it. Learn More.

  13. 20 Best Books on Creativity Everyone Should Read

    Goodreads Rating: 3.92. Creating Minds: An Anatomy of Creativity Seen Through the Lives of Freud, Einstein, Picasso, Stravinsky, Eliot, Graham, and Gandhi by Howard E. Gardner is an inspiring guide into the minds of famous creatives throughout history to discover what made them so successful and creative.

  14. Top 6 Books That Unleash Creativity Within You

    Creativity - like human life itself - begins in darkness - Julia Cameron. A decade-old Books on creativity but still more relevant books on creativity. Julia Cameron pointed out exercise and techniques to harness creativity within you. Goodreads Rating: 3.90. Conclusion

  15. Top 10 books about creative writing

    4. Madness, Rack, and Honey by Mary Ruefle. The collected lectures of poet and professor Mary Ruefle present us with an erudite inquiry into some of the major aspects of a writer's mind and craft.

  16. Books on Creativity (162 books)

    Books on Creativity. flag. All Votes Add Books To This List. 1. The Artist's Way: A Spiritual Path to Higher Creativity. by. Julia Cameron. 3.94 avg rating — 110,484 ratings. score: 2,757 , and 28 people voted.

  17. The 10 Best Books for Creativity

    Take a look at this list of 10 books on all things creative: 1. Creative Acts for Curious People: How to Think, Create, and Lead in Unconventional Ways. By Sarah Stein Greenberg. All problems ...

  18. The Best Places to Find Book Recommendations on Reddit

    On the flip side, r/TrueLit is a discussion-based subreddit with a focus on classics and literary fiction. Like r/Books, there's also a weekly recommendations thread that allows users to make requests. If you're feeling burnt out on fantasy and YA, or simply want to branch out of your comfort zone, this could be a great subreddit to check out.