The Art of Creative Thinking

February 1, 2016

Art school inspired Judkins (creative thinking, Central Saint Martins Coll. of Art, UK; Change Your Mind) to explore the strengths of the creative mind-set that taught him to take risks, navigate mistakes, and accept the freedom and challenges of new ideas and lifelong learning. The explorations in this book are brief forays into the lives and innovations of both contemporary and historical figures. From disciplines such as science, medicine, business, and technology, to film, fashion, literature, art, and music, a wide range of contributions are glimpsed through the lens of creative habits of mind and practice that help the reader reframe daily experience, suggesting fresh contexts for thinking about familiar things. Alexander Fleming discovered penicillin while experimenting with bacterial cultures to make watercolor paintings. There are no rules for invention, and Judkins suggests a surprising array of environments that led to artistic achievements throughout history. VERDICT This accessible and inspiring book of vignettes is not intended to be read sequentially, nor to provide substantial historical or biographical detail. However, the author's practical encouragement and problem-solving wisdom will engage readers who want to break out of stale habits of mind and work to find creative moments at every opportunity.--Bernadette McGrath, Vancouver P.L.

Copyright 2016 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.