3.3 out of 4 stars.
Wish this had come out a year ago!
I started my blog Dogearedtails about six months ago. It came from a place of me not having a creative outlet in my day-to-day life and itching to express what I always had running through my brain. My only hope is that I go to sleep each night feeling satisfied that I am growing as a person and I believe the more I try new things the better I will feel. Dogearedtails is something new to me whether it be being more disciplined with allotting free time to myself, writing in general, expressing myself on instagram, and just being inspired by other readers. Sounds like an easy enough task but for me this was a challenge. I created the blog in order to give myself accountability in keeping up with these notes above.
What does this have to do with Elizabeth Gilbert’s “Big Magic”? Her entire purposes for this book is to spark the little flame inside of you that allows you to feel curious enough to take a brave step into your own expression. For some this book may come across as too obvious or too light. This could be due to the fact that you already have found your passion and you are going for it. You do not need Gilbert telling you to follow your dreams and how important it is to invite creativity into your life. You do that for yourself. If this sounds like you than I would keep moving along in the book store and not pick this one up. I always encourage for readers to choose a new concept/idea when reading because it gives you a new perspective. I feel as though “Big Magic” is not for the advanced expressionist.
However, if you are a beginner in the whole creative realm (don’t worry me too) than this book is for you! Gilbert explains everything in an enthusiastic, exciting, and easy manner to understand. Her playful writing style that feels like a conversation allows the reader to get the points quickly and easily. If you are feeling a little blue about your Ground Hog’s day lifestyle – you have found your medicine with Gilbert’s tricks of the trade. In example, carve out 15 minutes a day to practice the craft you are going after. This passion could be knitting, singing, writing, etc.
I personally am a fan of Gilbert so regardless if I was advanced with creativity I still believe I would enjoy this book. However, I do know that some find her a bit much to take on. I believe the style in which she writes is similar in each of her books. If you were not a fan of “Eat Pray Love” than you will not be a fan of this. Don’t get your hopes up that a new book concept will lead her from her very obvious tone she keeps in her writing. I believe this manner of writing is that of a friend, you know – very cheeky.
To sum it up: if you are already following your creative dream than good for you and you can skip this book. If you are feeling a little stale and looking for a new fresh perspective than this is a lovely holiday gift to pick up for the upcoming 2016 year.
Here is Sadie after reading this book:
