Reading List of Creativity Books – 2024 Update

Are you looking to unlock your creative potential? Whether you’re an artist, writer, entrepreneur, or simply seeking inspiration, the right book on creativity can provide the guidance and motivation you need. In this curated list, we’ve compiled the 20 best creativity books that offer valuable insights, practical exercises, and inspiring anecdotes to help you tap into your creative genius. From renowned authors to hidden gems, these books cover a wide range of perspectives and approaches to nurturing and expressing creativity. Let’s dive into the world of creativity and explore these must-read books!

20 Best Books About Creativity

Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear

by Elizabeth Gilbert

Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear by Elizabeth Gilbert is a captivating book about unleashing your creative potential. Gilbert, known for her bestselling memoir Eat, Pray, Love, offers a refreshing perspective on the creative process and encourages readers to cultivate a fearless approach to their artistic endeavors. Through personal anecdotes and insightful wisdom, she explores the mysterious and enchanting nature of inspiration, urging readers to embrace curiosity, courage, and persistence in their creative pursuits. This creativity book is a celebration of the magical and transformative power of creativity, and a reminder that we all have the capacity to live a vibrant and inspired life. Whether you’re an artist, writer, or simply seeking to infuse more creativity into your daily existence, Big Magic offers an inspiring and empowering guide to embracing the creative process with open-heartedness and joy.

The War of Art: Break Through the Blocks and Win Your Inner Creative Battles

by Steven Pressfield

The War of Art by Steven Pressfield is a powerful book about creativity that delves into the inner struggles and resistance that often hinder creative expression. Pressfield explores the concept of “Resistance” as the force that prevents individuals from achieving their creative potential, offering insights and strategies to overcome it. The book is a call to arms for anyone facing creative blocks, providing a compelling and motivational guide to break through barriers and unleash their creative genius. With a blend of personal anecdotes, practical advice, and profound wisdom, Pressfield’s book on creativity serves as a rallying cry for artists, writers, and anyone striving to fulfill their creative ambitions. Whether you’re an aspiring creator or a seasoned artist, The War of Art offers invaluable insights and inspiration to conquer your inner creative battles.

Creative Confidence: Unleashing the Creative Potential Within Us All

by Tom Kelley and David Kelley

Creative Confidence: Unleashing the Creative Potential Within Us All is a compelling book about creativity by Tom Kelley and David Kelley. The Kelley brothers, both renowned in the field of innovation, share valuable insights on how to tap into our innate creative abilities. Through inspiring stories and practical exercises, they demonstrate how anyone can cultivate their creative mindset and apply it to various aspects of their lives. The book explores the concept of ‘creative confidence’ – the belief in one’s ability to create change and make an impact. It encourages readers to embrace uncertainty, take risks, and unleash their imagination to solve complex problems. Whether you’re an artist, entrepreneur, or simply seeking to foster a more innovative mindset, this book on creativity offers a wealth of wisdom and guidance to help you unlock your creative potential.

Steal Like an Artist: 10 Things Nobody Told You About Being Creative

by Austin Kleon

Steal Like an Artist by Austin Kleon is a refreshing and thought-provoking book about creativity. In this engaging and easy-to-read guide, Kleon shares 10 unconventional and inspiring principles to help readers unleash their creative potential. Through insightful anecdotes and practical advice, the author encourages readers to embrace their influences, find inspiration in unexpected places, and develop their unique creative voice. Kleon challenges traditional notions of originality and encourages readers to borrow, remix, and transform ideas to fuel their own creative endeavors. This creativity book is a must-read for anyone looking to break free from creative blocks, cultivate their passion, and make their mark in the world. Whether you’re an artist, writer, designer, or simply someone seeking to infuse more creativity into your life, Steal Like an Artist offers valuable insights and inspiration.

The Artist’s Way: A Spiritual Path to Higher Creativity

by Julia Cameron

The Artist’s Way is a transformative book on creativity written by Julia Cameron. This acclaimed creativity book provides a spiritual path to higher creativity, guiding readers through a 12-week program to unlock their artistic potential. Cameron’s approach is a unique blend of spiritual guidance, practical exercises, and insightful reflections, aiming to help individuals overcome creative blocks and tap into their innate talents. The book offers tools and techniques to ignite inspiration, silence the inner critic, and cultivate a deeper connection with one’s creative self. Through a series of exercises and tasks, readers are encouraged to explore their creativity, embrace their artistic impulses, and rediscover the joy of self-expression. The Artist’s Way is a must-read for anyone seeking to reignite their passion for art and unleash their creative potential.

Originals: How Non-Conformists Move the World

by Adam Grant

Originals: How Non-Conformists Move the World is a thought-provoking book on creativity by Adam Grant. In this captivating and insightful read, Grant explores the habits and traits of original thinkers and innovators, uncovering the secrets to their success. Through engaging storytelling and thorough research, he challenges the traditional notions of creativity and provides practical advice on how to nurture and unleash one’s own originality.

With a blend of psychology, sociology, and business, this creativity book delves into the minds of non-conformists, offering valuable insights on how they navigate the challenges of bringing new ideas to life. Originals is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the dynamics of creativity and innovation, and for those looking to make a meaningful impact in the world.

The Creative Habit: Learn It and Use It for Life

by Twyla Tharp

The Creative Habit: Learn It and Use It for Life by Twyla Tharp is a compelling book on creativity that offers a practical and insightful guide for harnessing and nurturing one’s creative abilities. Tharp, a renowned choreographer, shares her personal experiences and strategies for cultivating a disciplined and productive creative practice. She emphasizes the importance of establishing rituals and routines to foster creativity, and provides exercises and techniques to overcome creative blocks and generate innovative ideas. This creativity book is a valuable resource for artists, writers, and anyone seeking to enhance their creative process. Tharp’s engaging and inspiring narrative makes The Creative Habit a must-read for anyone looking to tap into their creative potential and make creativity a consistent part of their life.

Imagine: How Creativity Works

by Jonah Lehrer

Imagine: How Creativity Works by Jonah Lehrer is a captivating exploration of the mechanisms behind human creativity. In this insightful book on creativity, Lehrer delves into the science of imagination, revealing how groundbreaking ideas are born and nurtured. Through engaging anecdotes and scientific research, he uncovers the cognitive processes and environmental factors that contribute to moments of inspiration and innovation. Lehrer’s writing style is both accessible and thought-provoking, making complex concepts easily digestible for the reader. Whether you’re an artist, entrepreneur, or simply curious about the inner workings of the mind, this creativity book offers a compelling look at the mysterious forces that drive human ingenuity. Imagine is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the enigmatic nature of creativity.

Show Your Work!: 10 Ways to Share Your Creativity and Get Discovered

by Austin Kleon

Show Your Work! by Austin Kleon is a book about creativity that offers practical advice on how to share your creative work with the world. With a focus on the digital age, Kleon presents 10 ways to showcase your creativity and get noticed in today’s competitive landscape. From building a community around your work to embracing your process and sharing it with others, the book provides actionable strategies for artists, writers, and anyone looking to make an impact with their creativity. Kleon’s engaging writing style and insightful anecdotes make this creativity book a valuable resource for anyone looking to navigate the world of self-promotion and build a successful creative career. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out, Show Your Work! offers valuable insights on how to effectively share your creativity and connect with a larger audience.

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

by Todd Henry

The Accidental Creative: How to Be Brilliant at a Moment’s Notice by Todd Henry is a book on creativity that offers practical advice for cultivating creativity in your daily life. Henry provides actionable strategies for staying inspired, generating fresh ideas, and managing the demands of a creative career. He emphasizes the importance of developing sustainable creative practices and maintaining a healthy work-life balance. This creativity book is filled with real-world examples and exercises to help readers unlock their full creative potential and thrive in a fast-paced, competitive environment. Whether you’re a designer, writer, entrepreneur, or anyone seeking to harness their creative energy, The Accidental Creative offers valuable insights and tools for staying innovative and productive.

The Innovator’s Dilemma: When New Technologies Cause Great Firms to Fail

by Clayton M. Christensen

The Innovator’s Dilemma, by Clayton M. Christensen, is a thought-provoking book on creativity that explores the challenges faced by established companies when disruptive technologies emerge. Christensen argues that successful companies can become victims of their own success, as they focus on satisfying the needs of their existing customers and fail to embrace new, innovative technologies. Through in-depth case studies and analysis, the book offers a compelling explanation for why market leaders often struggle to adapt to change, and provides valuable insights for entrepreneurs and business leaders seeking to navigate the complexities of innovation. The Innovator’s Dilemma is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the dynamics of disruptive innovation and the importance of embracing change in a rapidly evolving business landscape.

The Creative Curve: How to Develop the Right Idea at the Right Time

by Allen Gannett

The Creative Curve: How to Develop the Right Idea at the Right Time by Allen Gannett is a fascinating exploration of the creative process. Gannett delves into the science of creativity, debunking the myth that creativity is solely a product of innate talent. Instead, he argues that creativity is a skill that can be developed and nurtured. Through engaging stories and insightful research, Gannett reveals the common patterns and principles that underlie successful creative endeavors. He introduces the concept of the “creative curve,” the point at which an idea becomes both novel and familiar, and provides practical advice on how to reach this stage. Whether you’re a budding entrepreneur, a seasoned artist, or simply curious about the workings of the creative mind, this book about creativity is sure to inspire and inform.

The Creative Destruction of Medicine: How the Digital Revolution Will Create Better Health Care

by Eric Topol

The Creative Destruction of Medicine: How the Digital Revolution Will Create Better Health Care by Eric Topol is a groundbreaking book on the intersection of technology and healthcare. Topol, a renowned cardiologist, explores the potential of digital innovation to revolutionize the medical field, from personalized medicine to the use of mobile health devices. The book delves into the idea of “creative destruction” in medicine, where new technologies and approaches replace outdated ones, ultimately leading to better patient care and outcomes. Topol’s insightful analysis and compelling examples make this a must-read for anyone interested in the future of healthcare and the transformative power of technology. This book about creativity in medicine is a thought-provoking and inspiring read for healthcare professionals, technologists, and anyone passionate about the potential for innovation in healthcare.

The Creative Tarot: A Modern Guide to an Inspired Life

by Jessa Crispin

The Creative Tarot is a unique and inspiring book on creativity that combines the ancient art of tarot with modern guidance for living an inspired life. Author Jessa Crispin offers a fresh perspective on using tarot as a tool for unlocking creativity and finding direction in your creative pursuits. The book provides practical exercises, insightful interpretations of tarot cards, and thought-provoking prompts to help readers tap into their creative potential and overcome creative blocks. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or someone looking to explore their creative side, this creativity book offers a fresh and engaging approach to cultivating inspiration and harnessing the power of the imagination. The Creative Tarot is a must-read for anyone seeking to infuse their life with more artistry, innovation, and imagination.

The Creative License: Giving Yourself Permission to Be the Artist You Truly Are

by Danny Gregory

The Creative License by Danny Gregory is a book about unleashing your artistic potential. This creativity book encourages readers to give themselves permission to explore their inner artist, no matter their skill level or self-doubt. Gregory provides practical advice and exercises to help individuals overcome creative blocks and find inspiration in everyday life. Through engaging storytelling and insightful prompts, the author empowers readers to embrace their unique perspective and express themselves fearlessly. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or someone who has never picked up a paintbrush, this book on creativity is a valuable resource for anyone seeking to tap into their creative potential and live a more fulfilling, expressive life.

Creative Confidence

by Tom Kelley

Creative Confidence by Tom Kelley is a captivating book about unleashing your innovative potential. This inspiring read encourages readers to tap into their creative instincts and push past self-doubt. With thought-provoking insights and real-life examples, the book explores how anyone can cultivate a mindset of innovation and creativity. Through engaging stories and practical exercises, the authors demonstrate how to overcome fear and embrace uncertainty to unlock one’s creative potential. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, artist, or professional looking to foster creativity, this book is a valuable resource for anyone seeking to unleash their creative confidence. With its fresh perspective and actionable advice, Creative Confidence is a must-read for anyone looking to harness the power of their imagination and bring their ideas to life.

The Artist’s Way

by Julia Cameron

The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron is a renowned book on creativity that has inspired countless individuals to tap into their creative potential. Cameron’s approach is both practical and spiritual, offering a 12-week program designed to help readers overcome creative blocks and unleash their artistic talents. Through a series of exercises and reflections, the book guides readers to explore their inner creativity, overcome self-doubt, and cultivate a more fulfilling and creative life. The Artist’s Way has been praised for its transformative impact on artists, writers, and anyone seeking to reignite their creative spark. If you’re looking for a book about creativity that offers both practical tools and a deeper understanding of the creative process, The Artist’s Way is a must-read.

Steal Like an Artist

by Austin Kleon

Steal Like an Artist by Austin Kleon is a refreshing take on the creative process. This book about creativity challenges the conventional wisdom that creativity is about originality and instead encourages readers to embrace influence, collaboration, and the art of borrowing ideas. Kleon’s message is clear: it’s okay to take inspiration from others and remix it into something new. With a mix of practical advice, inspiring anecdotes, and playful illustrations, this creativity book is an essential guide for anyone looking to nurture their creative spark. Whether you’re an artist, writer, or entrepreneur, Steal Like an Artist offers valuable insights on how to cultivate creativity in a world filled with endless possibilities.

Big Magic

by Elizabeth Gilbert

Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert is a captivating book about creativity that explores the mysterious and inspiring nature of the creative process. With her trademark wit and wisdom, Gilbert encourages readers to embrace their curiosity, let go of fear, and pursue their artistic passions with joy and courage. She shares personal anecdotes and insights to demystify the creative journey, offering practical advice and empowering perspectives on how to live a creative life. Whether you’re a writer, artist, or simply seeking to infuse more creativity into your everyday existence, this book is a treasure trove of inspiration and encouragement. Gilbert’s refreshing take on the creative process will leave you feeling inspired and ready to embark on your own creative adventures.

The Book of Doing: Everyday Activities to Unlock Your Creativity and Joy

by Allison Arden

The Book of Doing is a delightful book on creativity that encourages readers to embrace everyday activities as a means to unlock their creativity and find joy in the simple things. Author Allison Arden offers a refreshing perspective on how mundane tasks can be transformed into opportunities for self-expression and inspiration. Through a series of engaging exercises and prompts, Arden guides readers to tap into their innate creativity and discover new ways to infuse their daily lives with imagination and wonder. This book about creativity is a must-read for anyone looking to break free from routine and cultivate a more vibrant and fulfilling existence. Whether you’re an artist, writer, or simply someone seeking to reignite your passion for life, The Book of Doing is a valuable resource for nurturing your creativity.

Conclusion

Exploring the world of Creativity through literature is a journey worth taking. The 20 best books about creativity listed in this article offer a diverse and insightful range of perspectives on the creative process. Whether you are an artist, writer, entrepreneur, or simply seeking to tap into your own creative potential, these books provide valuable guidance and inspiration. From practical techniques to insightful anecdotes, each book offers a unique take on nurturing and harnessing creativity. Dive into these books and unlock the endless possibilities of your imagination.

Which Creativity book is best?

The best book on Creativity can vary with personal preference, but three widely recommended titles are:

  1. Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear by Elizabeth Gilbert,
  2. The War of Art: Break Through the Blocks and Win Your Inner Creative Battles by Steven Pressfield,
  3. Creative Confidence: Unleashing the Creative Potential Within Us All by Tom Kelley and David Kelley.

Each offers valuable insights and could be a great starting point.

What are the best books on Creativity?