Courageous Creativity

October 1, 2020

Gr 7-10-National Book Award finalist Zarr provides strategies and encouragement for those who wish to be more creative. Since Zarr is an author, almost all of her examples and activities are for writers, but the tips can be used by anyone seeking inspiration. For example, advice such as find a place, claim your time, and pay attention are helpful ideas for anyone. The text is divided into six sections: "You Are Here," "Play," "Plan," "Make," "Share," and "Play Again." This title can be used as a step-by-step guide, or readers can simply dive into any section that speaks to them. The beginning of the text talks less about being creative and more about the creative spark and how many people lose it through comparison and fear. A particularly interesting topic is capitalism versus art. This is an engaging perspective, particularly for readers who are considering the arts as a career choice. Quotes from other creatives are included throughout and offer inspiring messages. Eye-catching graphics highlight specific points from the text. There is nothing new or revolutionary here, but the writing and organization make it very accessible for readers. VERDICT A good title to have in school or public library collections to inspire young creatives, especially young writers.-V. Lynn Christiansen, Wiley International Studies Magnet Elem. Sch., Raleigh, NC

Copyright 2020 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

August 1, 2020
This guide for teens provides tools for living a creative life. Teenagers receive sympathetic inspiration and practical how-to advice on living a creative life and being productive in one's work. The chapters, each of which is further broken down into focused sections, follow the cycle of developing and executing projects, guiding readers through five steps: "Play," "Plan," "Make," "Share," and "Play Again." In each, the author addresses topics such as exploration, setting up your creative space, brainstorming and freewriting, and how and why to pay attention. Readers can learn challenging lessons in setting intentions and planning, dealing with failure, procrastination, self-doubt, and critical feedback. Zarr balances stories from her own life with concrete exercises to put these lessons into practice. The book combines you-can-do-it cheerleading with straight talk about sitting down and getting the work done. With her accessible, confessional tone and hands-on exercises, the author defangs many young artists' deepest and most immobilizing fears while also giving them tools for success. Most importantly, she affirms these feelings and lets teenagers know they are not alone. Notably, Zarr directly addresses readers' different personal circumstances when it comes to the money to fund projects or experience the arts, family encouragement, and access to private space in which to create. Black-and-white illustrations and design elements enhance the text. This inspirational and powerful work affirms readers with the underlying message: Fear not! Inspiring and honest, this smart book offers both compassion and practical instruction. (further reading) (Nonfiction. 12-18)

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