When I heard Elizabeth Gilbert had a new book out, I had no intention of reading it. Back in the day, I read "Eat, Pray, Love" and had some big issues with it. I haven't read any of Gilbert's work since. Yet, I kept seeing this book *everywhere*. It was like the Sirens composed a new song about this book at kept singing about it trying to lure me in. I caved. Or, maybe you could say that the Big Magic found me.

Instead of representing a voice I wanted to spar with (as in "Eat, Pray, Love") the Gilbert of "Big Magic" was affable, self-effacing, funny, approachable, and inspiring. I don't tend to think of myself as a creative person, but Gilbert defines creativity with a broad brush, making room for everyone. She says that "creative living is living a life driven more strongly by curiosity than by fear." Creativity is saying "I don't know exactly what I am, but I'm curious enough to find out."

The book is a pep talk about having the courage to put oneself "out there" authentically, and explore the amazing/beautiful/crazy world we live it.

"Big Magic" includes a large dose of realism (which I need, as anything that is too "woo-woo" doesn't resonate well with me). My favorite section in the book was the section on persistence and letting go of perfection (my mantra). Gilbert says that "in order to stay in the game, you must let go of your fantasy of perfection" and "we don't have time for perfect." I couldn't agree more.


4 stars
( )

I finished reading this book yesterday and I thought: "OK, it was quite good" - and I gave it four stars. But you know what? I can't stop thinking about the book, the Big Magic and all the other things Elizabeth Gilbert put into my head. And that means the book was not good, but great :) Five stars. ( )

Highly recommended creative delight. There of no way of knowing Elizebeth Gilbert’s purpose in writing the book. Out would seem to inspire others could be the goal. I found it inspiring and upbeat and believe anyone will. ( )

this book was such a prefect read. I really loved all the lessons this author shared and how this book really was able to show people how to live a creative life but not in a preachy way. I really liked how this book was structured and also how it really was connected to my life work. I would def re-read this book again and see how my thoughts have changed. This book def. inspired me to read more books like this in the future. ( )

this book was such a prefect read. I really loved all the lessons this author shared and how this book really was able to show people how to live a creative life but not in a preachy way. I really liked how this book was structured and also how it really was connected to my life work. I would def re-read this book again and see how my thoughts have changed. This book def. inspired me to read more books like this in the future. ( )