Creative Recovery

September 1, 2008
Therapist and creativity coach Maisel ("Fearless Creating"; "The Creativity Book") and clinical psychologist Raeburn illustrate how creativity both contributes to addiction and is a tool for recovery. In the first of three sections, entitled "Preparing," the authors begin by expanding upon the biological and other risks for addiction and explore the abuse continuum. The next section, "Working," is devoted to the foundation of recovery, awareness, which can be enhanced through creative talents, and addiction challenges, including an acceptance of the need to change. Finally, in "Living," the authors emphasize that recovery is an ongoing, lifelong process, and they expand upon and reinforce the role played by creativity, which provides an artistic outlet to express the hope, strength, and wholeness of continued recovery. Including an extensive list of resources, this informative, insightful, and valuable book is recommended for large public and academic library collections focusing on addiction and addiction recovery. A related text, Tobi Zausner's "When Walls Become Doorways: Creativity and the Transforming Illness", explores the link between creativity, illness, and identity.Melody Ballard, Pima County P.L., Tucson, AZ

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