I was skeptical at first that I would like this one. Nonfiction is always hit or miss, especially when it comes to the "self-help" variety. But...I was pleasantly surprised. Gilbert is frank and honest without being condescending. She keeps things light, but she doesn't beat around the bush. It's a good balance.

As far as the message, it's a good one. She stresses that creativity is something we must partner with. It is not a burden, it is not a given. It is available from time to time and it is what we make of it. If we do not embrace it, it may temporarily disappear.

I had let my creative endeavors stagnate. This book helped me feel inspired to jump back on the horse once again. What I create doesn't have to change the world, it doesn't have to bring me a fortune, it doesn't have to make anyone happy but me. Just reading her words made it feel as if the burden of producing something special to the outside world had been removed. I don't need to impress anyone but myself. That is about a freeing a message as one can receive.