creative development

~ The Artist’s Way: A Spiritual Path to Higher Creativity – by Julia Cameron ~

Review from Drew: As a writer, this book was such a boon to me when I was just starting. It’s structured as a full 12-week curriculum that guides you through the process of getting in touch with your creative energy. To be totally honest I only made it to week 7 or 8, but I have integrate some of the central tenants (e.g., Morning Pages, where you get up and write three stream-of-consciousness pages every morning) into my daily / weekly practice. I credit this book and the exercise with helping me snap into focus as a writer.

~ On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft – by Stephen King ~

Review from Drew: Whether or not you’re into his stuff, I feel like any writer would benefit from reading Stephen King tell about his story and his writing style. This book is part memoir and part King sharing his process and his writing process. It’s a bit masculine in flavor for my liking, to be honest (that’s how you churn out 65 novels in about as many years), but I’ve incorporated many of his tools and approaches into my own writing process.