It's nearing the end of the year, and I'm sure a lot of you are still looking for presents. Others are probably trying to figure out where they want to go next year, and what resources will help them get there.
So, to help you out, here are the absolute best creativity books I found in 2007!
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Jack's Notebook stood out to me immediately because it's not written like most normal "How to be creative" books.
It's actually a novel, and the creative problem solving process is demonstrated (not explained) as the characters try to work through the problems they face.
Personally, I think it's a breath of fresh air!
This book solves two difficulties people face when they're just learning about creativity: (1) Being intimidated by the whole thing and (2) Not seeing how the techniques in a book can be applied to real life.
The book is easy to get into, makes creative problem-solving approachable, and teaches without "preaching".
Buy it! If you're just getting into creativity, this is a great book to get started with. If you're more experienced, it will lift your spirits and be a fun read.
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How to Have Creative Ideas is the book I've been waiting for from Edward de Bono.
Dr de Bono has a lot of great books about creativity--some that talk about how creativity works, others about how to be more creative, and others that challenge our thinking.
How to Have Creative Ideas stands out because it has 62 creative exercises that can be done to come up with new ideas. It's actually more of a workbook--with challenges to solve and tons of suggestions for how to make new connections.
If you want to practice creativity, this is a fabulous book. Use it with his suggested problems, or plug in the problem you need ideas for. It's all in bite-sized chunks, so each exercises is completely manageable.
It's already published in Europe, so don't be fooled by the 2008 publication date on the US Amazon. Get it now before the rest of America.
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The Ball of Whacks is one of my favorite new creativity tools.
Created by Roger von Oech, it's a set of magnetic triangles that come in the shape of a ball. The triangles, however, can be formed into tons of different shapes (e.g a cat, turtle, frog and Batman).
(It comes with a book, so it counts!)
The Ball of Whacks works by challenging your mind to look for new connections and try out new combinations. It works well when you're stuck and need to open up your mind, and is a great thinking stimulant.
Plus, if you need something to keep visiting children entertained, the Ball of Whacks is a lifesaver. This has keep a friend's nephew--who normally bounces off every wall--quiet for a good hour and a half.
Beware though, keep it out of sight when you actually want to interact with your visitors. I've lost parents, relatives and friends to the Ball's potent lure!
You should buy it because being creative is about having a little fun, because creating with your hands turns on your brain, and because it will be great fun at the Christmas and New Year's parties.
Oh, and because (unlike the Rubik's Cube) this is a mental game that you can actually win!
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Tomorrow I'll share with you the books I want for Christmas in case you want to get a jump-start for 2008.
And, no, it's not too late...
There are still 2 days left to buy books on Amazon if you want them in time for Christmas!
I read Jack's Notebook and absolutely loved it. I loved the way the author used fiction as a vehicle to describe the Creative Problem Solving process. Edward de Bono's books are always a wonderful read. Great picks!
Posted by: Rob Jacobs | December 18, 2007 at 08:48 PM
I've been wishing for that Ball of Whacks; good to know that my wishing is going towards something of value!
Posted by: Kris Bordessa | December 19, 2007 at 12:05 AM