Books to Inspire: April 2025
Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear
By Elizabeth Gilbert
“Big Magic” challenges the myth that creativity is a rare gift bestowed upon only a select few. Instead, Elizabeth Gilbert reminds us that creativity is a force available to everyone, waiting to be embraced. Through her concept of Big Magic—the mysterious energy behind ideas—she encourages us to approach creativity with curiosity, not fear.
One of the book’s core insights is that ideas are like living beings, often seeking out those who are open and willing to act on them. Gilbert inspires us to be playful and persistent, urging us to let go of perfectionism and self-doubt, which can block our creative flow. The book is filled with personal stories and wisdom, emphasizing that creativity is not about the pressure to succeed, but about the joy and freedom found in the act of creation itself. Gilbert encourages us to make space for inspiration, trust the process, and allow ideas to flow naturally.
“Big Magic” was published in 2016 by Riverhead Books. You can find a paperback copy in the nonfiction section of the Neilson Hays Library.
What Do You Do With an Idea?
Written by Kobi Yamada and illustrated by Mae Besom
Written by Kobi Yamada and beautifully illustrated by Mae Besom, “What Do You Do With an Idea?” explores the journey of idea generation and creative growth. The story follows a child who is initially unsure about an idea that feels out of place and overwhelming. As the idea develops, the child learns to embrace and nurture it, realizing that even the most unexpected ideas can lead to powerful results.
The book delivers an essential message about the creative process: don’t dismiss your ideas, no matter how strange or intimidating they may seem at first. It encourages readers to give their ideas space to grow, evolve, and transform into something meaningful. Mae Besom’s soft, whimsical illustrations visually capture this process, highlighting the transformation from doubt to confidence.
This story is not just for children but for anyone engaged in creative work or idea generation. It’s a reminder that every great innovation starts as an idea, and the key is to trust the process and let it flourish.
“What Do You Do With an Idea?” was originally published in 2013 by Compendium Incorporated. A copy of “What Do You Do With an Idea?” and “What Do You Do With a Problem?” can be found in the Children’s Corner of the library.
Prepared by Kit Lang @mskitlang. The Neilson Hays Library is Thailand’s premier English-language library. The Children's Program offers Saturday Story Time, a cozy Children's Corner, and special holiday events. Adult Programs include concerts, art exhibitions, book clubs, and book sales. Located in a UNESCO-awarded historic building with a garden and cafe on site: 195 Surawong Road, Bangkok 10500, Thailand. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook.