Author: Alison Hazel – Updated: August 2025
Introduction
This year I’ve been reading quite a few more books than I usually do. I’m averaging about three books a month. Which is not quite one a week or 52 in a year, but probably I’ll aim for 36 books by the end of the year.
I couldn’t really tell you why this year in particular I’m reading more, but I think it’s because I’m trying to go deeper on a few of topics.
A book really does bring great value and can share things with you in an organized yet simple form which I appreciate. So, here’s a few of the many art books that I’ve been reading this summer.
How to Draw a River
Why This Book?
How to Draw a River: From the Source to the Sea is a step-by-step guide created by Alex Boon, a talented nature journal artist based in England.
Longtime readers will know that I am a big fan of Alex’s work. Like me, he found joy in nature journaling and has inspired many others to begin their own creative journeys.
Nature Journaling
About three years ago, I discovered his content and it was one of the reasons I started my own nature journal. You can learn more about my nature journaling journey.
Alex’s approach to art is calm and thoughtful. He often works with colored pencils and simple, expressive sketches that capture the beauty of the natural world without overwhelming detail.
His videos and tutorials are both soothing and inspiring, making nature journaling feel accessible and enjoyable. You can explore his nature journal, creativity and his art channel here.
New Book Series
Last month, I was excited to see that Alex published two new books: How to Draw a River and How to Draw a Tree. Since I live by the coast and often find myself drawing water scenes, I was especially drawn to How to Draw a River.
I purchased my own copy. This book is a true delight with a simple white cover.
It is clear and simple enough for beginners to follow with ease, while also offering plenty of rich information and techniques for more experienced nature journal artists. I like the parts about drawing water when still flowing and cascading as I believe drawing water is hard.
If you are someone who is just starting out in nature journaling or else you want to deepen your skills, this guide provides a wonderful way to connect with the flow of nature through your art.
Worth Writing Down
Why this Book?
Recently, I had the wonderful opportunity to attend a book event with a close friend who is also a writer. We went to a book promotion held at the Book Warehouse in Kitsilano, Vancouver, featuring two authors.
It was a lovely evening filled with creative energy, and honestly, I had no idea who the authors would be before we arrived.
This outing was part of an art date (AKA Julia Cameron style) which my friend and I are cultivating as we support each other on our own creative journeys.
Local Author
One of the authors, Jessica Deitcher, particularly captured my attention. Jessica’s book, Worth Writing Down: Ideas for Journaling Your Truest Self, offers thoughtful guidance for anyone looking to explore their inner world through writing.
Her approach feels both grounded and inspiring, encouraging readers to connect deeply with their authentic voices.
This is a gentle and insightful guide for anyone looking to deepen their journaling practice and connect more fully with their authentic self.
Jessica offers practical prompts, thoughtful reflections, and encouraging advice that make journaling feel approachable and meaningful.
Invitation to Explore
This book goes beyond simple diary-keeping, but rather it invites you to explore your emotions, values and dreams with kindness and curiosity.
What I appreciate most about this book is its balance of structure and freedom. It offers enough direction to keep you inspired but leaves plenty of room for your unique story to emerge. The short art exercises gently guide you to write your truest self without pressure or judgment.
I particularly liked the project about drawing a map, as maps always interest me.
Creative Journey
Worth Writing Down feels like a supportive companion for anyone on a creative journey. It encourages mindfulness, self-reflection and growth one page at a time. I would recommend Jessica’s book to anyone who wants to make journaling a nurturing habit and at the same time discover more about who they truly are.
I purchased my copy of her book and she kindly wrote a message in it for me, “Your story is worthy! Jessica” I was delighted.
Where to Get Your Copy
The Book Warehouse, 632 West Broadway, Vancouver, (604) 872-5711.
Publisher: The Self-Publishing Agency Inc.
ISBN: 978-1-0689184-0-7
Artist’s Little Book of Color
Why This Book?
Artist’s Little Book of Color by Simon Jennings is a wonderful resource for any hobby artist. As someone who paints for pleasure, I found it both inspiring and practical. Simon takes the time to explain color in all its forms, including hue, tint, tone and pigment.
He also shares the history behind the colors we see on the shelves of art stores today, which makes you appreciate your paintbox in a whole new way.
One of the things I really value in this book is the well-organized index. All the color terms are listed, so if you ever forget the meaning of something like “chroma” or “saturation,” you can find it quickly. It is the kind of reference you will want to keep within reach of your art table.
Ancient Colors
The history of older paints and how they were first created is completely fascinating to me. Many were developed in small home workshops through experimentation and persistence.
Simon describes the earth colors that early humans used in caves, the traditional shades that have been part of art for centuries and the modern colors that have emerged with today’s technology.
Pigments
One of the delights of this book is discovering color names I had never heard of before, such as Caput Mortem, Massicot, and Pozzuoli Earth. Each name comes with its own story and origin.
Simon also explains how manufacturers label their pigments using codes like PBk1, PBr24, and PB15:3, which makes it easier to understand exactly what is in your paints.
If you love the history of color, this book is a real treasure. Every page is filled with information that is both useful and inspiring and it leaves you looking at your paints with fresh curiosity and appreciation.
Overarch
Over to you
What art books are keeping you company this summer?
Do you have those trusty old favorites you pull off the shelf again and again?
I’m always on the hunt for something new to read, so send your hobby artist must-reads my way.
Author Bio: Alison Hazel
Alison Hazel is a hobby artist and she shares her ongoing journey about becoming an artist later in life. She creates simple art that anyone can make. She hopes to inspire you to reach your creative potential in the area that suits you.
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