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Katherine Botts Whitaker

Designer | Illustrator | Artist
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  • Illustration
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Illustration by Katherine Botts Whitaker. 2024.

The weather forecast calls for books

January 13, 2024

📚 Cozy Up with Creativity: January Reading Picks🎨

Where I live in the Ozarks, January ushers in blizzards and ice storm season. While the winds howl outside, it's the perfect time to snuggle up with a cup of something warm and a captivating book. Whether you're seeking inspiration, a mental escape, or a fresh perspective, I've curated a list of my own personal must-reads.

The Creative Habit, by Twyla Tharp

Discover creative enlightenment with 'The Creative Habit' by American dance choreographer Twyla Tharp. This transformative guide offers practical wisdom, universal insights applicable to all artistic disciplines, and inspiring anecdotes from Tharp's illustrious career. Use Tharp’s structured approach to cultivating creativity. This book is a great companion on a journey to unlocking your full artistic potential in the coming year.

A Discovery of Witches, by Deborah Harkness

The first in a trilogy, the enchanting world of 'A Discovery of Witches' combines magic, romance, and mystery. Richly imagined settings, compelling characters, and an intelligent narrative, make this novel a captivating escape into a realm where supernatural beings coexist with humans. Prepare for a page-turning mystery and a forbidden love story that will leave you spellbound. 'A Discovery of Witches' is a must-read for those seeking a magical literary adventure. 

Invisible Women: Data Bias in A World Designed For Men, by Caroline Criado Perez

Prepare to view the world through a new lens. with 'Invisible Women: Data Bias in a World Built for Men' by Caroline Criado Perez. This eye-opening book exposes the pervasive gender data gap, revealing how it shapes our lives and perpetuates inequalities. A compelling exploration of the hidden biases in data, this book challenges us to question and reimagine the structures of society. A must-read for anyone passionate about equality and inclusion. 

Lore Olympus, by Rachel Smythe

For the comic and graphic novel lovers. 'Lore Olympus,' is a modern retelling of Greek mythology by Rachel Smythe. The illustrations are stunning, and the storytelling is always clever. This webcomic brings gods, goddesses, and mythical beings to life in a fresh and relatable way. Smythe's unique take on the ancient tales keeps me hooked, week after week. Lore Olympus is a visual and narrative delight that breathes new life into classic myths. 

What would you recommend I add to my reading list? I’m eager to hear.

Grab a copy, get comfortable, and let the pages transport you into a world of imagination and creativity.

Wishing you a January filled cozy books and endless imagination!

Tags: good books, illustrated, illustrator, winter reads, winter illustration, midwest illustrator, procreate illustrator
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