“I thoroughly enjoyed [The Shoreline of Wonder] and loved the framework you laid out to think broadly about creativity…I gained insights from your book and will return to them.” – Ed Catmull, author of Creativity, Inc: Overcoming the Unseen Forces that Stand in the Way of True Inspiration
“I have read many books on the subject of creativity, and none of them have introduced as many new ways of seeing creativity in time, space, religion, science and day-to-day living. Among the scholars of creativity, Austin Hill Shaw is the Master!” – Melanie Davis, bestselling author of The Triumph Book:HEROES
What gives rise to those precious moments of creative insight? What helps us convert such moments into tangible works that bring meaning to our own lives while enriching the lives of others? What’s behind our longing to create and how might we embrace creativity as a way of life?
Through a skillful blend of masterful storytelling and probing contemplations, The Shoreline of Wonder takes us on an exploratory journey to discover how creativity permeates every aspect of our lives, and shows us how we can bring it to the forefront of our experience.
Drawing upon his experiences as a rock climber, designer, Buddhist, husband, and father, Austin Hill Shaw insightfully explores the dynamic universe in which we live and the uniquely human capacity for authentic creativity. With inspiring examples from scientist Sir Isaac Newton, artists Christo and Jeanne-Claude, and religious studies scholar Huston Smith, The Shoreline of Wonder shows us how to live a fully realized, creative life—whoever we are and whatever we choose to do—and to embrace the necessary challenges of the path as gifts that immeasurably enrich us.
Further praise for The Shoreline of Wonder: On Being Creative
“A beautiful blend of personal experience, philosophy and real-life examples I found the book to be both truly creative and distinct in its style and format. Shaw writes as one would expect of someone who professes to be a lover of beauty – eloquently and delightfully. Coupled with a deep authenticity and honesty and you have a wonderfully nourishing and enlightening book – I highly recommend.” – Will Pye, author of the forthcoming book, Blessed with a Brain Tumor
“I love Shaw’s writing style and insightful message. With long lists he describes the various parts of the universe, from supernovas to jazz music, and its connection with creativity. Both beautiful and grounding. I recommend this book to anyone looking to bring more meaning and creative insights to their lives.” – Katelyn Schirmer, Graphic Designer and Web Developer
“Concise, insightful, and motivational, The Shoreline of Wonder is a must-read for anyone interested in maximizing their creativity. Shaw conveys a complex subject in an easy to understand manner, and is open-minded, powerful, and impactful in his delivery. This book is a guidepost to living not only more creatively, but in a more connected and open way.” – Alison Raby, Reflector, Life Before Death
“An extremely well crafted, in-depth and readable book focusing on the creative process. What is unique about this book is the way the author uses science and earth-based natural history to elaborate on our innate creative process. As a life-long ecologist,naturalist and creative artist myself, I found this approach enriching and validating. Additionally, what makes Shaw’s book so enjoyable and readable is his weaving in of his own personal experiences with artists and spiritual teachers, as well as his own personal life and family experiences.” – David Silva, Photographer
“A friend recommended this book. Within the first chapter I knew I had found what I had been looking for. For years… when I thought about all of my instances of insight and inspired creativity… it always seemed that there was a connection between the instances, but I could never identify what the common thread might be.
I have always wanted, of course, to understand my creativity better so that I might embrace it more fully. I thought “If there is a way to increase the amount of inspired moments in my life, then sign me up!”
Having read this book, I understand the foundation and source of these moments much better. And now that I understand it better, I feel like I can get in touch with that source each day if I just spend the time.”
– Kilton Hopkins, Chief Technology Creator at Weave The People