The Art of Helping Others, by Douglas Mann

Let me start this review with a caveat: I was asked to review this book because I have known Douglas Mann for almost 6 years. In fact, he was my boss at my first "grown-up" job right out of college. During the time we worked together, I was constantly fascinated by both Douglas' mind and his heart. At times, he was an enigma, but he had already lived a fascinating life, and I knew a book about his adventures wouldn't be far off. To say that I knew I would "like" the book was a foregone conclusion. What I didn't expect was how much I would truly appreciate it.

Douglas has taken a myriad of topics and combined them into a cohesive book. It's part memoir, part art appreciation, part creativity, part evangelism, and part call to action. What emerges is something truly special. One of the central ideas of the book is the idea of "creative inciters." Creative inciters, well, look at the world differently. And it's a wonderful thing! They ask "why not," instead of "why." They stir creativity, and encourage the world to break free from the monotony.

He encourages creativity in/as worship, especially. Do you feel closest to God when painting? Create paintings as worship, that can bring others closer to God through art. This really touched me. I feel that the church can be complacent in worship, and see it as a drudgery, when really it should be the most important part of our lives. God has given us unique talents, so why not use them as worship?

I could go on and on about The Art of Helping Others, but I will sum it up as best I can: if you're at all creative, read this book. It will leave you encouraged and ablaze with passion and meaning. You can't ask for more from a book than that.