1. Bagnall, J &
Koberg, D. The Universal Traveler : A Soft-Systems Guide to Creativity,
Problem-Solving, & the Process of Reaching Goals - This gem has been
around for years but is still one of the best books for teachers (and parents)
and students on creativity. It is loaded with ideas for classroom use ( and life
usage) and does a nice job of taking many different aspects of creativity and
explaining them, simply! It is also inexpensive -- a real gem.
2. Dacey, John (1989) Fundamentals
of creative thinking - Wonderful text on creativity with tests and
discussions of personality characteristics. Unfortunately, it is out-of print
and on-line search may turn up a copy or two.
3. Ealy, C.D. - The
woman's book of creativity - Some great exercises, as well thoughtful
discussions about the acute differences between traditional male perceptions of
creativity and that of females' perceptions, actions and reactions.
4. Gelb, M.J. How to
think like Leonardo da Vinci. A wonderful compilation of stories about the
times and life of Leonardo. The author then takes readers into a transitional
series of exercises and perspectives designed to help readers think like "the
master." (Well realistically, as the author artfully points out, since
Leonardo is one of the world's greatest minds, the intention here is to help
readers begin to think a little bit like the master.) Entertaining, informative,
instructive and fun!
5.
Golden, B. - Unlock Your Creative Genius (A guide for
exploring creativity at personal levels) If you are looking for
something to help you become more creative, this is very helpful.
6. Goleman, Kaufman, and
Ray - The Creative Spirit - A popular trade publication spawned by a
PBS series of the same name -- very readable and discusses important issues
related to all aspects of creativity.
7. Hennessy and Amabile - Creativity and learning - NEA - A small fastback, classic by two of the
world's experts on creativity.
8. Kent and Steward - Learning
by heart - A very gentle book with a series of visual and introspective
exercises guaranteed to make you see the world differently. Unfortunately, it's
now out of print. Bookstores may be able to help you locate existing copies.
Well worth the search!
9. MacKenzie, G. -
Orbiting
the giant hairball - Here MacKenzie offers priceless tips on how to maintain
creativity within the overwhelming rules and regulations of governmental and
corporate structures. Personally, this is one of my favorites and I use it in my
graduate creativity class. My students love it -- it helps them think
outside the box and offers insights into the real world or work.
10. Maisel, E. - Fearless
creating: a step-by-step guide to starting and completing your work of art.
- Some great exercises, many of which can be adapted to the classroom.
11. Marks-Tarlow - Creativity
- inside out: learning through multiple intelligences. This book is
relatively new and an outstanding collection of classroom activities!
12. Piirto, J.- Understanding
those who create - A comprehensive discussion on creative people and what
makes them different-- full of valuable information about creative spirits.
13. Starko, A.J. - Creativity
in the classroom: schools of curious delight - A sure bet for those of you
looking for a text-like approach to aspects of creativity. Many comprehensive
suggestions and discussions on related topics, some activities..
14. Sternberg, R.J. &
Williams, W.M. How to develop student creativity. A short, inexpensive
book from The Association of Supervision and Curriculum Development that is
specifically geared toward initiating creativity in the classroom. The book's
framework is based primarily on 25 basic techniques and strategies identified
earlier by Sternberg and Lubart (1995). Very inexpensive but full of useful
ideas and suggestions for enhancing creativity.
