Creativity, some believe to be a talent and some deem fit to be a skill set. However you may see it, you’ll agree that it needs to be sharpened in ways such as acquiring knowledge through watching educational videos, listening to podcasts, taking courses, or reading a book. In this zeitgeist of pop culture, the culture of reading books might not hold a strong stance in the minds of many. Still, it’s an undeniable asset to gaining unconventional ideas as a creative.
To help creatives who search for treasures hidden in books, we curated a list of books every creative should read:
- Steve Jobs by Walter Isaacson:
This authorized biography of the American Business Mogul and Co-founder of Apple is a top read for creatives. It explores the entire existence and journey of Steve Jobs, touching on the birth of the tech company, Apple, his flaws and regrets, and Steve’s resilience, progress, and successes. If you want to get an insight into Apple’s creative branding and marketing game pioneered by Steve, then you should read this book.
- The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz:
Oftentimes, creatives are in constant war with navigating freedom, happiness, and love. This book helps to explore this trifecta. It depicts the concept that a person’s life is determined by the agreements they’ve made with themselves, others, God, and society. It highlights these four agreements: Be impeccable with your word, do not take anything personally, do not make assumptions, and always do your best.
- All You Need to Know About The Music Business by Donald S. Passman:
If you’re looking for practical knowledge on the legal and financial aspects of the music businesses, music publishing, royalties, advances, and copyrights; and maximize concert, touring, and merchandising deals, this book is for you. Whether you’re a writer, artiste, A&R, or executive, this old book written by one of the most sought-after lawyers comprehensively provides insights and guidance into building a career in the music business.
- Rules for Effective Storytelling Based on Pixar’s Greatest Films by Dean Movshovitz:
This book explores the nitty-gritty of effective and compelling storytelling based on Pixar’s greatest films. Learn how Pixar tells the greatest stories and has been able to do this consistently for decades. If you’re a writer, animator, or filmmaker, this is a must-read to dive deep into the world of storytelling.
- Zero To One by Peter Thiel:
“There’s nothing new under the sun”, says the layman. But the author, a seasoned entrepreneur and investor, explains the principles and integral ways to create value in new and unique forms. There’ll never be another Elon Musk or Fela Kuti. But some people will pioneer new inventions because they seek deep within themselves and acquire information. There are still uncharted territories to conquer, you just need to find value in unexpected places.
- Show Your Work by Austin Kleon:
Popularly known for his bestselling book, ‘Steal Like An Artist’, Austin Kleon also drops profound gems in this book, “Show Your Work”. If you battle the need for self-promotion, and you want to navigate how to share your craft, you should pick this book. Every creative should. It illustrates various methods of how to show your work including the showing process, telling good stories, and selling yourself.
- The War of Art by Steven Pressfield:
Every creative at various phases tends to find themselves stuck in a loop or roadblocks. This book offers practical guidance for recognizing and overcoming obstacles stemming from ambitions, helping to get to the highest level of creative discipline.
- The Practice: Shipping Creative Work by Seth Godin:
Marketing expert, entrepreneur, and author, Seth Godin, discloses in this book ways to channel and ship or share your creative work. “The magic of the creative process is that there is no magic.”–Seth Godin. The author believes creativity is more of a skill that can be learned, and requires consistency in doing and sharing your craft. He explains that imposter syndrome is a sign of a well-adjusted being. But most importantly, he teaches that you can turn your creative passion from a private distraction to a productive contribution.
- Real Artists Don’t Starve by Jeff Goins:
Do you seek timeless strategies to thrive in this new creative age? Then this book explicitly explains how creatives can utilize their work to come out of the perceived notion of a starved artist. It explores concepts such as: stealing from your influences (don’t wait for inspiration), collaborating with others, taking strategic risks, making money in order to make more art, and apprenticing under a master. Being a creative shouldn’t hinder your success. And this book helps to realize this.
- Perennial Seller by Ryan Holiday:
This book touches on the art of making and marketing work that lasts. Being a creative also demands that one becomes entrepreneurial-minded. In this book, the bestselling author uses insightful examples of creators who are ‘perennial sellers’ in making their work stand the test of time. He explains that these creators have been able to draw the relationship between their product’s purpose and the audience. This is another notable mention of books every creative should read.
The DIY Collective 