The Creative Habit

August 25, 2003
Perhaps the leading choreographer of her generation, Tharp offers a thesis on creativity that is more complex than its self-help title suggests. To be sure, an array of prescriptions and exercises should do much to help those who feel some pent-up inventiveness to find a system for turning idea into product, whether that be a story, a painting or a song. This free-wheeling interest across various creative forms is one of the main points that sets this book apart and leads to its success. The approach may have been born of the need to reach an audience greater than choreographer hopefuls, and the diversity of examples (from Maurice Sendak to Beethoven on one page) frees the student to develop his or her own patterns and habits, rather than imposing some regimen that works for Tharp. The greatest number of illustrations, however, come from her experiences. As a result, this deeply personal book, while not a memoir, reveals much about her own struggles, goals and achievements. Finally, the book is also a rumination on the nature of creativity itself, exploring themes of process versus product, the influences of inspiration and rigorous study, and much more. It deserves a wide audience among general readers and should not be relegated to the self-help section of bookstores.

October 1, 2003
Creativity, says award-winning director/choreographer Tharp, is not restricted to artists: anyone can harness and replenish creativity with routine and discipline. Forget "natural genius." Good work habits and preparation for creativity, complete with rituals, whether they be playing music while painting or carrying one's coffee outdoors to write, are the keys to maximizing creative potential, not only for artistic expression but also for problem solving, being innovative at work, and good parenting. A working environment that is habit-forming is the goal, Tharp continues, one that fits your "creative DNA," that which innately makes up your particular "focal length," the pull between involvement and detachment. In an age of multitasking, Tharp urges readers to give up "distraction." This is a multifaceted resource complete with exercises (written, visual, and physical), questionnaires, and interesting anecdotes that's sure to win Tharp many new fans, as much for her obvious talent as a self-help guru as for her own extraordinary creativity.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2003, American Library Association.)

March 1, 2004
Adult/High School-Tharp shows how and why artists must actively seek and nurture inspiration. The dancer/choreographer draws heavily on her personal experiences to guide readers into cultivating habits that give birth to success. In addition, she recounts the experiences of artists from other disciplines, including painting and cinematography. Vignettes from the lives of people such as Mozart underline the fact that even geniuses work hard to realize the fruits of their labor. A personable tone is carried throughout the book, and within the text is a gold mine of advice. Tharp not only promotes tried-and-true habits, but also encourages readers to dig deep within themselves and come up with their own answers. Most sections conclude with exercises; they are fun and almost seamlessly bring home the author's main points. The black-and-white illustrations and photos are few in number. Students from all manner of creative arts who wish to make their dreams come true would benefit from reading this book.-Sheila Shoup, Fairfax County Public Library, VA

Copyright 2004 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

June 15, 2002
If this guide to creativity is as insouciant and quirky as Tharp's dances, it should be really fun reading.

Copyright 2002 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.