I've been reading Teresa's blogs for years now and remember telling her that what she was writing felt the most authentic to her. She is funny, thoughtful, caring and trying to figure out her creative life journey just like a lot of us. But what makes her message different from other blogs about leading a creative life is she shows everyone - not just artists and writers - how creative they already are and how to tap into their own unique self to be even more creative. So many people don't believe they are talented unless they are visual artists painting masterpieces. Teresa gives every person the confidence to declare, "I'm creative, too!" She does this through her book which is a collection of her most popular and thought-provoking blogs. Another thing I like about this book is the prompts to look at life and art in different ways. Break out of routine. Slow down. Redefine what art is. Use art to solve problems. Express your passions. Then incorporate more art into your life. Because we all need it. 

If you know anyone who needs a burst of confidence, or permission to try something new in the arts, Bursts of Brilliance for a Creative Life is the perfect gift. It's like having a personal cheerleader to inspire you to self-express, and perhaps discover a hidden talent. I'm old school and prefer print books so I can flip back and forth and mark passages that capture my heart, but there's a Kindle Edition, too. I can see taking this book on a writer's retreat or to bed to read a few passages to end the day on an encouraging note.

May you discover your own brilliance. Then share it, please! The world needs more art. Why not from you?

Disclosure: Teresa is a dear friend of mine, and I helped proof the book before it went to print, so yes, I have a connection to the author. But I don't give out 5 stars lightly.