A collection of books I love related to creativity and authentic expression plus bonus recommendations in reply to some troll comments. This page contains affiliate links. If you use these links to buy something, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Braving the Wilderness: The Quest for True Belonging and the Courage to Stand Alone
Brené Brown
A wonderful book for anyone ready for wholeness, courage and belonging to oneself.
Purchase Link for Braving the Wilderness by Brené Brown
The War of Art: Break Through the Blocks and Win Your Inner Creative Battles
Steven Pressfield
This book opened up a wonderful, persistent assurance in me about the power of creativity (including my own!)
Purchase Link for the War of Art by Steven Pressfield
Letting Go: The Pathway of Surrender
David R. Hawkins MD/PHD
Found this book in reply to "cope" hahaha
Purchase Link for Letting Go by David R. Hawkins
Laziness Does Not Exist Paperback
Devon Price Ph.D.
Found this book in reply to a comment that said "you're lazy"
The Queer Art of Failure
Jack Halberstam
The first book to give me hope and make my heart soar in the midst of deep fears of failure in my early 20s.
Purchase Link for The Queer Art of Failure by Jack Halberstam
The Creative Act: A Way of Being
Rick Rubin
A truly soul soothing book.
Purchase Link for The Creative Act by Rick Rubin
The Prophet
Kahlil Gibran (Author), Riz Ahmed (Narrator)
The first book I listened to like a favorite song (on repeat). Each time I listen or read I learn something new + expand.
Purchase Link for The Prophet by Kahlil Gibran
The Artist's Way: A Spiritual Path to Higher Creativity
Julia Cameron
I am so grateful for Julia Cameron's work. I have this one in audible, paperback, and kindle lol because I love checking in whenever needed. This has everything you need to get in the flow of your authentic expression - and enjoy it!
Purchase Link for The Artist's Way by Julia Cameron
Pretty Boys Are Poisonous: Poems
Megan Fox
A gorgeous and gripping read, especially when you need "lessons in hot-boy demonology"
Purchase Link for Pretty Boys Are Poisonous by Megan Fox
Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear
Elizabeth Gilbert
Just looking at this book makes my stomach and body feel happy and freer. Very liberating and tender companion on your artistic journey. Funny too :)
Purchase Link for Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert
Sacrilege: Curse of the Mbirwi
Nyasha Hatendi (Author), Caleb McLaughlin (Narrator), Jessica Mikayla (Narrator), Christina Elmore (Narrator), Kevin Carroll (Narrator), Tapiwa Mutingwende (Narrator), Tongayi Chirisa (Narrator), Charmaine Bingwa (Narrator), Denise Khumalo (Narrator), Tendai Maduwa (Narrator)
I don't remember how I began this book but I do remember listening to it nonstop for a weekend once I did. It feels more like an audio theatre production than an audiobook which is a wonderful experience. While listening I was split into two worlds: the one I was walking in was now cloaked in an alert, cautious calm, a bit afraid of my surroundings, while also transported as an observer into the realm created by Hatendi and team. It's fun, unexpected, terrifying at times, and haunting.
Purchase Link for Sacrilege: Curse of the Mbirwi by Nyasha Hatendi
Dreamboy
Night Vale Presents
A lovely audiotheatre vibe podcast that left me feeling like I belong more in this world. It feels like a heart hug. Fun and funny - great for roadtrips!! or when you need an exciting lift to your life.
Listen to Dreamboy now