Reading To Inspire & Boost Creativity

Reading is an incredible way to boost your creative juices. We seek new knowledge, inspiration, and clear our thoughts of real-world problems in favour of adventure and intrigue. Descriptive writing fills our minds with images of faraway lands, strange creatures, and villains to be conquered.

My favourite thing about reading is that each image we conjure, though inspired by the same novel countless others are reading, is uniquely our own. As we read, we create our own unique visualization of the world we explore. We become a part of that world, and it becomes a part of us.

Although literature offers a wondrous escape from reality it can also help us to process our real-life experiences. Through reading, we are able to reflect on our own experiences and relate them to exaggerated tales of heroism, bravery, or terror. Finding yourself immersed in another life offers a unique opportunity to look at our lives from an outside perspective.

Fantasy novels are my favourite genre to clear my mind and search for inspiration. I find myself surrounded by vibrant scenery, glorious or terrifying creatures, and I sink into the reality of that world allowing myself to become part of the story. In these days of staying home and social distancing, we need a great escape to keep us enthralled and inspired more than ever!

Canadian Author and Artist Alexis Marie Chute has recently completed her incredible 8th Island Trilogy comprised of Above The Star, Below The Moon, and Inside The Sun. Her gorgeously descriptive writing style and exceptional world-building offers an abundance of creative inspiration and bold imagery.

Each novel takes us deeper into the mysterious island of Jarr-Wya and the increasingly intriguing history of the Wellsley family.

Series Description:

Brave fourteen-year-old cancer kid Ella, strong mother Tessa, and determined Grandpa Archie accidentally embark on the journey of a lifetime.

In search of his missing son, Grandpa Archie accidentally transports his family, along with a cruise ship of fellow passengers, to the beautiful and perilous island of Jarr-Wya. The Wellsleys discover that Jarr-Wya may hold a magical cure for Ella’s illness, but on their quest, the family uncovers a disturbing truth; all worlds are dying.

The family will soon discover that hope is not lost. There is still a way to restore all worlds to safety, and Ella will play a role no one could have imagined.

Although this trilogy is considered a young adult series, I feel that the diversity of the main characters offers something for readers of all ages.

Many younger readers, especially the young girls relate strongly to main character Ella. Ella Wellesley is a teenage cancer kid with a spunky attitude and a brave heart. Despite her disease rendering her mute Ella holds on to hope, fighting boldly to reconnect her displaced family and continue her quest. Ella’s chapters have a unique artistic flare provided by Alexis Marie’s illustrations. After receiving a sketchbook and painting supplies on the island Ella’s chapters each feature India ink paintings that add to the storyline. Each image is hand-painted by Alexis Marie Chute who is not only an award-winning author but also an incredible visual artist! The great thing about these illustrations is that they give us a glimpse of how the author pictures her world while still allowing us to fill in the details within our own imagination.

Parents are likely to connect strongly with Tessa, a determined mother fighting tirelessly to protect her family while facing her own personal battles. Tessa and Ella have a strong bond and a complicated relationship. Balancing the complexities of raising an ill child and budding teenager as a single mother after her husband’s disappearance has taken a toll on Tessa and her relationship with Ella. Although they have their issues the strength of Tessa’s love and determination to protect her daughter never wavers.

My personal favorite is the quirky and lovable Grandpa Archie. He is not afraid of a little mischief in favor of the greater good. After his son disappeared Archie took it upon himself to bring joy to Ella’s life as she had brought it to his. Believing that his son would never abandon his family, Archie's love for them pushes him to go in search of his son to reunite their family at any cost. This search leads them to a fantastical island where his determination and bravery grows. Grandpa Archie’s drive and passion for his mission are inspirational and the infinite love he has for his family is beautiful.

The 8th island trilogy is not only full of creative inspiration, but it is also a nice big helping of food for your soul. If you are looking for a creative boost, or just a great read, Above The Star, Below The Moon, and Inside The Sun should definitely be on your TBR list!

Check out the awesome book trailer for Above The Star here!

I had the incredible opportunity to help Alexis with costume creation and behind the scenes work for all her book trailers. I am also featured as the fiery red Maiden Of Olearon in the video linked above! It was an amazing experience to work on the project and participate as a character. Cosplay is one of my favorite artforms, especially when pyrotechnics are involved!

Check out this adorable music video/book trailer! WARNING: Super catchy song! You will fall in love with it!

Filming day for this video was a blast. Working with live musicians Moonshine Mammas and so many awesome creative people made for an incredibly unique day! You can see some fun behind the scenes footage here.

Alexis Marie’s channel is full of awesome videos for creatives to keep you inspired so check out some of her other videos as well!

I hope you found something here to inspire you today! Please feel free to leave a comment sharing your thoughts on Alexis Marie’s work or let me know what YOUR favorite book-spiration series is!