Best Creativity Books

Are you looking to unleash your creative potential? Dive into the world of imagination and inspiration with the 20 best books about creativity. Whether you’re an artist, writer, entrepreneur, or simply seeking to enhance your innovative thinking, these books on creativity will spark your imagination and help you tap into your creative genius. From practical guides to insightful explorations of the creative process, these books offer valuable wisdom and actionable tips to help you cultivate and express your creativity. Get ready to ignite your imagination and unleash your artistic spirit with these handpicked creativity books.

20 Best Creativity Books

Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear

by Elizabeth Gilbert

Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear by Elizabeth Gilbert is a transformative book on creativity that encourages readers to embrace their innate creative impulses and pursue their passions without fear. Gilbert, best known for her bestselling memoir Eat, Pray, Love, draws on her own experiences as a writer to offer insights and wisdom on the creative process.

Through a combination of personal anecdotes, practical advice, and philosophical musings, Gilbert inspires readers to cultivate a mindset of curiosity, courage, and resilience in their creative endeavors. She challenges the notion of “suffering for art” and instead advocates for a joyful and adventurous approach to creative living.

With her engaging storytelling and down-to-earth wisdom, Gilbert empowers readers to overcome self-doubt, external pressures, and the paralyzing effects of fear to tap into their innate creativity. Whether you’re an aspiring artist, writer, or simply seeking to infuse more creativity into your life, Big Magic offers a refreshing perspective on embracing the creative process.

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 compelling book about creativity that delves into the struggles and obstacles that often hinder our creative endeavors. Pressfield explores the concept of resistance, which he identifies as the force that prevents us from achieving our artistic ambitions. He discusses the various forms resistance can take, such as procrastination, self-doubt, and fear, and provides valuable insights on how to overcome these hurdles.

Through a series of concise and impactful chapters, Pressfield offers practical advice and motivation for anyone looking to break through their creative blocks. He emphasizes the importance of discipline, perseverance, and a strong work ethic in order to conquer resistance and unleash one’s artistic potential. The book is filled with inspiring anecdotes and quotes from famous artists and writers, making it an engaging and thought-provoking read for anyone seeking to tap into their creativity.

The War of Art is a must-read for anyone who is passionate about their creative pursuits and is looking for guidance on how to overcome the obstacles that stand in their way.

Creative Confidence: Unleashing the Creative Potential Within Us All

by Tom Kelley and David Kelley

Creative Confidence: Unleashing the Creative Potential Within Us All, written by Tom Kelley and David Kelley, is a transformative book on creativity that challenges the traditional notion of who is creative and who is not. The authors, both renowned experts in design thinking and innovation, argue that creativity is not a rare gift bestowed upon a select few, but a skill that can be cultivated and harnessed by anyone.

Through engaging stories and practical exercises, the Kelleys provide a roadmap for tapping into our innate creative abilities and overcoming the fear of failure that often holds us back. They advocate for a human-centered approach to innovation, emphasizing empathy, experimentation, and collaboration as key components of the creative process.

Whether you’re a business leader, educator, or simply someone looking to infuse more creativity into your life, this book about creativity offers valuable insights and inspiration. It’s a must-read for anyone seeking to unlock their creative potential and make a meaningful impact in the world.

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 unconventional book on creativity. It challenges the traditional notion of originality and encourages readers to embrace influence, remix ideas, and find inspiration in unexpected places. With wit and wisdom, Kleon presents 10 unconventional principles to help readers tap into their creative potential. From embracing your influences to embracing your own creativity, this book about creativity offers practical advice and exercises to spark imagination and innovation.

Kleon’s playful and visually engaging approach makes this creativity book a joy to read, and his insights are applicable to anyone looking to cultivate their creative spirit. Whether you’re an artist, writer, designer, or simply seeking to infuse more creativity into your life, Steal Like an Artist will inspire you to break free from the constraints of originality and embrace the power of influence and inspiration.

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

by Julia Cameron

The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron is a renowned book on creativity that serves as a spiritual path to higher creative expression. Through a 12-week program, Cameron guides readers on a journey of self-discovery and self-renewal, encouraging them to tap into their innate creativity and unleash their artistic potential. The book is filled with practical exercises, thought-provoking reflections, and inspiring insights to help readers break through creative blocks, silence their inner critics, and cultivate a deeper connection to their creativity.

With its emphasis on spirituality and personal growth, The Artist’s Way is not just a book about creativity; it’s a transformative experience that empowers individuals to live more authentically and creatively. By embracing Cameron’s teachings, readers can learn to reclaim their creative birthright, rediscover their passions, and reignite their artistic spark. Whether you’re an aspiring artist, a seasoned creative professional, or simply seeking to infuse more creativity into your life, this creativity book is a valuable resource for unlocking your full creative potential.

Originals: How Non-Conformists Move the World

by Adam Grant

Originals: How Non-Conformists Move the World is a captivating book on creativity by Adam Grant that challenges the traditional notion of success and innovation. Grant, a renowned organizational psychologist, delves into the minds of non-conformists and explores how they defy the status quo to bring about groundbreaking change. Through engaging storytelling and extensive research, Grant uncovers the secrets of creative thinking and provides actionable insights for individuals and organizations looking to foster a culture of innovation.

This creativity book explores how originality can be cultivated and nurtured, rather than being an inherent trait. Grant showcases the power of non-conformity and presents compelling evidence on how embracing diverse perspectives can lead to greater creativity and success. Originals is a thought-provoking and inspiring read that challenges readers to rethink their approach to creativity and offers practical advice on how to unleash their creative potential. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, artist, or corporate leader, this book about creativity is a must-read for anyone looking to make a lasting impact in the world.

The Creative Habit: Learn It and Use It for Life

by Twyla Tharp

The Creative Habit by Twyla Tharp is a renowned book on creativity that offers a compelling and practical guide to cultivating and harnessing one’s creative potential. Tharp, a world-renowned choreographer, shares her insights and experiences to help readers develop a consistent creative practice, emphasizing the importance of discipline and routine in fostering creativity. She explores various techniques and exercises to spark inspiration and innovation, encouraging readers to cultivate their creativity through consistent action and dedication. Tharp’s unique approach and perspective make this book about creativity a valuable resource for artists, writers, and anyone seeking to unlock their creative potential. Whether you’re a seasoned creative professional or someone looking to infuse more creativity into your daily life, The Creative Habit provides valuable insights and actionable strategies to help you tap into your creative genius and make creativity a lifelong habit.

Imagine: How Creativity Works

by Jonah Lehrer

Imagine: How Creativity Works by Jonah Lehrer is a fascinating exploration of the inner workings of the human mind when it comes to generating innovative ideas. In this thought-provoking book on creativity, Lehrer delves into the science behind creativity, revealing the processes and mechanisms that lead to moments of insight and originality. Through a combination of engaging storytelling and cutting-edge research, Lehrer provides valuable insights into the nature of creativity, shedding light on how individuals can tap into their own creative potential.

This creativity book is filled with captivating examples and case studies that showcase the creative thinking of individuals from various fields, including art, science, and business. Lehrer’s accessible writing style makes complex scientific concepts easy to understand, making Imagine a compelling read for anyone interested in unlocking their creative abilities. Whether you’re an artist, entrepreneur, or simply curious about the workings of the human mind, Imagine: How Creativity Works offers a wealth of knowledge and inspiration.

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

by Austin Kleon

Show Your Work!: 10 Ways to Share Your Creativity and Get Discovered by Austin Kleon is a must-read for anyone looking to make their mark in the creative world. This book on creativity is packed with practical advice and inspiration for artists, writers, musicians, and anyone else looking to share their work with the world. Kleon offers valuable insights into the power of sharing your creative process, building a network of supporters, and finding your unique voice in a crowded digital landscape. With a blend of wit and wisdom, the author encourages readers to embrace the idea of “showing your work” and offers actionable tips for getting discovered in today’s hyper-connected world. Whether you’re a seasoned creative professional or just starting out, this creativity book is sure to spark new ideas and help you navigate the challenges of sharing your work in the modern age.

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

by Todd Henry

The Accidental Creative by Todd Henry is a book about nurturing your creative spark and harnessing it at a moment’s notice. Henry offers practical strategies for staying inspired, focused, and innovative in a fast-paced world. He emphasizes the importance of developing a sustainable creative rhythm, managing energy, and finding the right balance between structure and spontaneity. The book provides valuable insights into how to generate fresh ideas, overcome creative blocks, and maintain momentum in your work. Henry’s holistic approach to creativity encompasses not only the process of generating ideas, but also the necessary disciplines for executing them effectively. Whether you’re an artist, entrepreneur, or professional seeking to enhance your creative output, The Accidental Creative offers actionable advice and a roadmap to unleashing your full creative potential. This creativity book is a must-read for anyone looking to cultivate a more fulfilling and impactful creative practice.

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 groundbreaking book on creativity that explores the challenges that established companies face when disruptive technologies emerge. Christensen argues that successful companies often fail to adapt to new technologies because they are focused on sustaining their current business models. The book outlines the ‘innovator’s dilemma’ – the struggle for companies to balance the need to innovate with the pressure to meet the demands of their existing customers and markets.

Christensen provides compelling case studies from industries such as technology, healthcare, and manufacturing to illustrate how well-managed companies can still flounder when faced with disruptive innovations. He also offers valuable insights into how companies can navigate this dilemma by creating a culture of innovation and investing in new technologies.

With its thought-provoking analysis and practical advice, The Innovator’s Dilemma is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the dynamics of innovation and the challenges of staying ahead in a rapidly changing 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 compelling book about nurturing your creative abilities. Gannett, a tech entrepreneur and CEO, explores the concept of creativity and provides insight into how to cultivate it effectively. Through engaging anecdotes and in-depth research, he delves into the process of generating innovative ideas and the strategies to bring them to fruition. The book emphasizes the importance of timing, practice, and immersion in the creative process, debunking the myth that creativity is purely a product of natural talent. Gannett also introduces the ‘creative curve’, a framework for understanding the patterns and principles behind successful creative endeavors. Whether you’re a budding artist, entrepreneur, or simply someone seeking to enhance your creative prowess, this book about creativity offers valuable guidance on how to tap into your creative potential and develop groundbreaking ideas. The Creative Curve is a must-read for anyone looking to unlock their creative potential and achieve success in their creative pursuits.

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 and digital medicine expert, explores how the digital revolution is transforming the practice of medicine, leading to more personalized and effective healthcare. This creativity book delves into the potential of technologies such as genomics, mobile health apps, and artificial intelligence to revolutionize the way we approach healthcare. Topol argues that these innovations will empower patients, improve diagnosis and treatment, and ultimately lead to better health outcomes. Through engaging storytelling and compelling evidence, Topol paints a vivid picture of a future where digital tools and data-driven insights will transform the healthcare landscape. This book about creativity challenges the traditional healthcare model and offers a vision of a more patient-centered, efficient, and effective system. The Creative Destruction of Medicine is a must-read for anyone interested in the intersection of technology, creativity, and healthcare.

The Creative Tarot: A Modern Guide to an Inspired Life

by Jessa Crispin

The Creative Tarot by Jessa Crispin is a unique and insightful book on creativity that combines the ancient practice of tarot with modern guidance for living a more inspired life. Crispin, a cultural critic and founder of Bookslut, offers a fresh perspective on tapping into your creative potential and finding inspiration in the world around you. By exploring the symbolism of the tarot cards and their connection to the creative process, readers can gain a deeper understanding of their own creative journey.

Through engaging and thought-provoking exercises, Crispin encourages readers to explore their own creativity, overcome creative blocks, and find new ways to express themselves. The book provides practical tools and techniques for integrating creativity into daily life, making it a valuable resource for anyone looking to ignite their creative spark. Whether you’re an artist, writer, or simply seeking more inspiration in your life, The Creative Tarot offers a fresh and modern approach to unlocking your creative potential.

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

by Danny Gregory

The Creative License by Danny Gregory is a captivating book about creativity that encourages readers to unleash their artistic potential. With a blend of personal anecdotes, practical exercises, and insightful advice, this book is a valuable resource for anyone looking to tap into their creative side. Gregory’s writing style is engaging and relatable, making it easy for readers to connect with his message.

Throughout the book, Gregory emphasizes the importance of giving oneself permission to explore and express their creativity. He dispels common myths about artistic talent and instead focuses on the joy and fulfillment that comes from embracing one’s creative impulses. Whether you’re an experienced artist or someone who has never picked up a paintbrush, this book on creativity offers inspiration and guidance for unlocking your artistic potential.

By the time you finish The Creative License, you’ll feel empowered to fully embrace your creativity and express yourself through art in new and exciting ways. It’s a must-read for anyone seeking to live a more creatively fulfilling life.

Creative Confidence

by Tom Kelley

Creative Confidence by Tom Kelley is a groundbreaking book about unleashing the power of creativity within each of us. Co-founder of the renowned design firm IDEO, Kelley, along with his brother David, challenges the misconception that creativity is a gift for a select few. Instead, they argue that creativity is a skill that can be nurtured and developed by anyone.

This engaging and insightful book on creativity delves into real-life examples and practical exercises to help readers break free from self-imposed limitations and tap into their creative potential. Kelley shares inspiring stories of individuals and businesses that have overcome obstacles and embraced their creative confidence to achieve remarkable success. Through its engaging and practical approach, Creative Confidence empowers readers to cultivate a mindset of curiosity and innovation in both their personal and professional lives.

Whether you’re an artist, entrepreneur, or simply someone looking to inject more creativity into your life, this creativity book is a must-read that will inspire you to unlock your creative potential and make a meaningful impact in the world.

The Artist’s Way

by Julia Cameron

The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron is a renowned guidebook for nurturing and unlocking creativity. This influential book about creativity presents a 12-week program designed to help individuals rediscover and develop their artistic talents. With its practical exercises and insightful wisdom, the book on creativity offers a transformative journey towards self-discovery and creative fulfillment. Through Cameron’s engaging writing style and personal anecdotes, readers are encouraged to overcome creative blocks and unleash their inner creativity. The author’s emphasis on the importance of self-care and self-expression makes this creativity book a must-read for anyone seeking to reignite their passion for art and reclaim their creative identity. Whether you’re an aspiring artist, writer, musician, or simply looking to infuse more creativity into your life, The Artist’s Way provides a roadmap for embracing your creative potential and living a more fulfilling and inspired life.

Steal Like an Artist

by Austin Kleon

Steal Like an Artist by Austin Kleon is a refreshing take on the age-old advice to ‘be original.’ This book about creativity encourages readers to embrace influence, draw inspiration from the world around them, and remix it into something new. Kleon argues that nothing is completely original, and that all artists and creators are influenced by the work of others. In this book on creativity, he provides practical tips and exercises to help readers unlock their creative potential and find their own unique voice.

With its witty illustrations and concise writing style, Steal Like an Artist is a quick, enjoyable read that is sure to leave a lasting impact. Kleon’s message is clear: creativity is not about reinventing the wheel, but rather about taking what already exists and putting your own spin on it. Whether you’re an aspiring artist, writer, or entrepreneur, this creativity book will inspire you to embrace your influences and create work that is authentic and meaningful.

Big Magic

by Elizabeth Gilbert

Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert is a captivating book about creativity that explores the author’s perspective on the elusive nature of inspiration and the creative process. Gilbert shares her insights and experiences, urging readers to embrace their curiosity, let go of fear, and pursue their creative passions with enthusiasm and courage.

Through a series of personal anecdotes, Gilbert delves into the mysterious world of ideas, discussing the intersection of creativity and fear, the importance of persistence, and the value of pursuing creativity for its own sake. Her writing is both insightful and inspiring, offering practical advice and thought-provoking wisdom for anyone seeking to live a more creative life.

With its engaging storytelling and empowering message, Big Magic is a must-read for anyone looking to tap into their creative potential and live a more fulfilling, imaginative existence. Whether you’re an aspiring artist, writer, or simply someone seeking to infuse more creativity into your daily life, this book about creativity is sure to leave a lasting impact.

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

by Allison Arden

The Book of Doing: Everyday Activities to Unlock Your Creativity and Joy by Allison Arden is a delightful and inspiring book about unleashing your imagination and finding joy in everyday activities. Arden’s book is not just a creativity book, but a guide to help you tap into your artistic side and discover the beauty in the world around you. Through a series of fun and simple exercises, she encourages readers to embrace their inner creativity and explore new ways to express themselves. Whether it’s through writing, drawing, or simply taking a walk in nature, Arden provides a variety of engaging activities to spark your imagination and bring more joy into your life.

Final Thoughts on Best Creativity Books

Exploring the world of Creativity through literature is an enriching and inspiring experience. The 20 best books about creativity offer a diverse range of perspectives and insights, providing valuable guidance and motivation for anyone looking to unlock their creative potential. Whether you’re an artist, writer, entrepreneur, or simply seeking to foster a more creative mindset, these books are sure to ignite your imagination and spark new ideas. Dive into these works and let the power of creativity transform your life and work.

Which book about Creativity 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 to learn about Creativity?

For those looking to learn about Creativity, there is a wealth of literature that can provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject. Some of the most highly recommended books include:

  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,
  4. Steal Like an Artist: 10 Things Nobody Told You About Being Creative by Austin Kleon,
  5. The Artist’s Way: A Spiritual Path to Higher Creativity by Julia Cameron,
  6. Originals: How Non-Conformists Move the World by Adam Grant,
  7. The Creative Habit: Learn It and Use It for Life by Twyla Tharp,
  8. Imagine: How Creativity Works by Jonah Lehrer,
  9. Show Your Work!: 10 Ways to Share Your Creativity and Get Discovered by Austin Kleon,
  10. The Accidental Creative: How to Be Brilliant at a Moment’s Notice by Todd Henry

These books offer a range of perspectives on Creativity, covering various aspects and approaches to the subject.

What are the best books about Creativity?

The best books about Creativity are:

  • Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear by Elizabeth Gilbert,
  • The War of Art: Break Through the Blocks and Win Your Inner Creative Battles by Steven Pressfield,
  • The Innovator’s Dilemma: When New Technologies Cause Great Firms to Fail by Clayton M. Christensen,
  • The Creative Curve: How to Develop the Right Idea at the Right Time by Allen Gannett,
  • Imagine: How Creativity Works by Jonah Lehrer,
  • Originals: How Non-Conformists Move the World by Adam Grant.

Each offers unique insights into the subject. While these books about Creativity are highly regarded, it’s important to note that any list of ‘best’ books is subjective and reflects a range of opinions.

What are the best Creativity books of all time?

Choosing the best Creativity books of all time can vary depending on who you ask, but five titles that are often celebrated include

  • Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear by Elizabeth Gilbert,
  • The War of Art: Break Through the Blocks and Win Your Inner Creative Battles by Steven Pressfield,
  • The Artist’s Way: A Spiritual Path to Higher Creativity by Julia Cameron,
  • Imagine: How Creativity Works by Jonah Lehrer,
  • and The Innovator’s Dilemma: When New Technologies Cause Great Firms to Fail by Clayton M. Christensen.
  • Each of these books has made a significant impact in the field of Creativity and continues to be influential today.