The Creative Journal: The Art of Finding Yourself

Rating:
Summary: I'm Not Missing, Thank You Very Much
Review: After finding this author's book _Visioning_ to be very helpful, I had high hopes for _The Creative Journal_, which alas were disappointed. An initial word of comment: the author's definition of a "creative" journal appears to be one that contains drawing as well as writing, which I think shows a limited understanding of creativity.

I don't know how else to describe my problem with this book other than saying that everything about it seemed oversimplified. The print is larger than usual in books for adults; the author uses very simple words, simple sentences, and simple explanations; and the total effect, rather than one of clarity, is of an author who believes she is writing for rather dense children.

I grant you that simplicity can be profound, and this book contains some occasional interesting insights. Too much of _The Creative Journal_, however, consists of exercises like: "Draw the struggle. Give the drawing a name. Let the drawing speak to you" (actual quote from page 52). There is no nuance to these exercises.

Verdict: not worth the effort. For a broader look at creativity, see works such as _A Year In The Life_.

Rating:
Summary: A wonderful inner journey
Review: I read and worked through this book several years ago and found it very helpful for getting in touch with that person hidden deep inside. This book will help you clarify what the real you wants and needs and will also be helpful when you are making life decisions on which direction to go.
After a few years I've just picked this book off the shelf again. This is another way this book is so great, if you wait a while and work back through it, you'll be able to see how you have changed and find your new directions in life.
In reply to someone else's review...
I do not believe it is necessary for a book to use 'big words' or long strung out descriptions in order for it to be helpful. Sometimes the simplest things are the best things. If you use this book with an open mind it will help you look inside yourself in ways so simple you would not have thought of them. I've read several self help and journaling books and this one is the best.

Rating:
Summary: A book to return to again and again
Review: I tried some of the exercises in this book years ago and found them really insightful. The art parts I skipped and focused on the writing exercises. Now I'm giving it another go and again it makes me think outside my usual box.
Some exercises use lists, some use word association, visualizing and a variety of techniques.
One exercise has you make a list of things you like about yourself. Then make a second list of things you would like to expand or strengthen. Then take one of the items and write out how you will actually do that in the coming week.
This is a good book to provide ways to explore some inner feelings and open up your thinking.

Rating:
Summary: a big disappointment!
Review: this book was a total waste of time and money.