Back
    Book Review

    Steal Like an Artist: 10 Things Nobody Told You About Being Creative

    by Austin Kleon

    Read if you're interested in self-help, business, or books for adult.

    Buy on AmazonAs an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
    7.5
    VerdictRecommended
    Loading your rating…
    Book Summary

    This book offers a pragmatic guide to creativity, emphasizing that all art builds on existing ideas and encourages embracing influence, working with limitations, and sharing one's work. It presents ten principles for unlocking creative potential and productivity in a practical, accessible manner.

    What it does well
    • Encourages diligence and hard work in creative pursuits, echoing biblical calls to work heartily (Colossians 3:23).
    • Promotes the idea of building on the good work of others, which can be seen as a form of stewardship of knowledge and talent.
    • Stresses the importance of sharing one's gifts and creations with the world, aligning with the concept of using talents for a broader good (1 Peter 4:10).
    Watch for
    • The central metaphor 'Steal Like an Artist' can be misunderstood or misapplied, potentially promoting plagiarism or a disregard for intellectual property if not properly contextualized. While the author clarifies it means to study, remix, and build upon, the phrasing itself might be concerning for some Christians who emphasize integrity and honesty (Ephesians 4:28).
    • The book is largely secular in its approach; it does not explicitly integrate faith or biblical principles into its creative advice. While not negative, it lacks a spiritual dimension that some Christian readers might seek.
    • Some interpretations of 'stealing' might clash with Christian ethics regarding ownership and giving credit where due (Proverbs 11:1).
    Verdict

    Christian readers can find valuable insights into the creative process and practical advice for artistic development in 'Steal Like an Artist.' It encourages diligent work, learning from others, and sharing one's gifts, which are principles compatible with a Christian worldview. However, readers should interpret the 'stealing' metaphor discerningly, understanding it as a call to study and build upon, rather than to plagiarize, and be prepared to integrate their faith into these creative principles independently, as the book itself does not offer a spiritual framework.

    ALIGNMYREAD RECOMMENDATION
    Christian readers can find valuable insights into the creative process and practical advice for artistic development in 'Steal Like an Artist.' It encourages diligent work, learning from others, and sharing one's gifts, which are principles compatible with a Christian worldview. However, readers should interpret the 'stealing' metaphor discerningly, understanding it as a call to study and build upon, rather than to plagiarize, and be prepared to integrate their faith into these creative principles independently, as the book itself does not offer a spiritual framework.
    Biblical alignment
    • Encourages diligence and hard work in creative pursuits, echoing biblical calls to work heartily (Colossians 3:23).
    • Promotes the idea of building on the good work of others, which can be seen as a form of stewardship of knowledge and talent.
    • Stresses the importance of sharing one's gifts and creations with the world, aligning with the concept of using talents for a broader good (1 Peter 4:10).
    • Advocates for creating and contributing to culture, which can be a form of 'cultural mandate' engagement.
    • Highlights the value of focus, curiosity, and learning, virtues that can enhance spiritual and personal growth.
    • The emphasis on process over pure originality can be liberating, aligning with grace-filled effort rather than striving for perfection.
    Areas of concern
    • The central metaphor 'Steal Like an Artist' can be misunderstood or misapplied, potentially promoting plagiarism or a disregard for intellectual property if not properly contextualized. While the author clarifies it means to study, remix, and build upon, the phrasing itself might be concerning for some Christians who emphasize integrity and honesty (Ephesians 4:28).
    • The book is largely secular in its approach; it does not explicitly integrate faith or biblical principles into its creative advice. While not negative, it lacks a spiritual dimension that some Christian readers might seek.
    • Some interpretations of 'stealing' might clash with Christian ethics regarding ownership and giving credit where due (Proverbs 11:1).
    Written for
    Discussion

    Reader comments

    Sign in to leave a comment.

    Loading…