The first time I heard about Elizabeth Gilbert was years after her best-selling book Eat, Pray, Love was published. Not really knowing what to expect, other than the fact that it was a travel memoir, I picked up the book and gave it a chance — and I loved it. Elizabeth Gilbert’s writing is intelligent and charming, hilarious and full of courage. Her words on the page command your attention, and you won’t mind giving it.

The next encounter I had with Elizabeth Gilbert was when I was taking an online poetry class. Part of my assignment was to watch a TED Talk entitled “Your Elusive Creative Genius.” From then on, I was hooked. She began to delve into the idea of the “genius,” an idea that has changed over centuries. The stories she tells are charming and unusual, and she starts to make you think about your own creative process. She talks about the fear associated with her craft and the fear that comes with having a creative mind. Her approach to the creative genius is eloquent and hilarious and gives you a small window into what her new book, Big Magic, is all about.

Big Magic, an instant #1 New York Times Bestseller, is all about the creative process. Gilbert shares her wisdom and perspective about her own creative methods. To her, inspiration remains a mystery, and in this book she offers her insight on where it could come from. A creative mind is often approached by other people with fear and worry, but Gilbert discusses ways to meet and conquer those fears. “[Gilbert] shows us how to tackle what we most love, and how to face down what we most fear. She discusses the attitudes, approaches, and habits we need in order to live our most creative lives.” Her book encourages, dares, and embraces the creative process for minds of all ages.

Elizabeth Gilbert is constantly encouraging our inner voices to speak out — even her Facebook page is full of inspirational and funny messages to keep pushing you further. No matter the defeat you experience, or the dark days you fall into, there is always the chance to move forward; and, with this book, it is like having a friend by your side, armed with kind words and a warm heart. She freely and effortlessly states, “If you’re alive, you’re a creative person.”

So, if you’re feeling a little lost when it comes to your creativity, or you want to better explore your inner (or outer) genius, check out Elizabeth Gilbert’s Facebook page or pick up her newest book, Big Magic (I’ve already got my copy!) — and let your creativity flow free.