Artist’s Way Group Next Chapter: “The Book of Alchemy”

"Creativity is my way of making sense of the world.” — Suleika Jaouad Are you feeling an urge to pick up a pen or paintbrush or pair of scissors and unleash your creativity, but not sure where to start? Or are you looking to find community, to motivate your creative self and make new friends? This might be just the thing for you. Two years ago, we formed an “Artist’s Way” group here at the shop, and continued it again last year. It was extraordinary. Not only did people write and paint and create, but got published and found new life paths. (And even love!) But best of all, a community was established, offering encouragement for creative endeavors, and friendship and support. It has been life affirming. Now, in 2026, creativity and community are more important than ever, and it’s time to gather a group again! This year, however, we will not be doing “The Artist’s Way,” and instead will be exploring “The Book of Alchemy” by Suleika Jaouad. This book focuses on journaling and looking at our life experiences to foster creativity to inspire whatever art form we choose to do. From the publisher: “From the time she was young, Suleika Jaouad has kept a journal. She’s used it to mark life’s biggest occasions and to weather its most ferocious storms. Journaling has buoyed her through illness, heartbreak, and the deepest uncertainty. And she is not alone: for so many people, keeping a journal is an essential tool for navigating both the personal peaks and valleys and the collective challenges of modern life. More than ever, we need a space for puzzling through. In The Book of Alchemy, Suleika explores the art of journaling and shares everything she’s learned about how this life-altering practice can help us tap into that mystical trait that exists in every human: creativity. She has gathered wisdom from one hundred writers, artists, and thinkers in the form of essays and writing prompts. Their insights invite us to inhabit a more inspired life. A companion through challenging times, The Book of Alchemy is broken into themes ranging from new beginnings to love, loss, and rebuilding. Whether you’re a lifelong journaler or new to the practice, this book gives you the tools, direction, and encouragement to engage with discomfort, ask questions, peel back the layers, dream daringly, uncover your truest self—and in doing so, to learn to hold the unbearably brutal and astonishingly beautiful facts of life in the same palm.” Beginning Tuesday, March 3rd at 7pm through the end of September (with flexibility), we will be meeting on Tuesdays to check in and discuss the book and our progress. Each chapter has a number of prompts so we will take it slow, but also determine our pace. Every other Tuesday we will discuss the book, and then the alternate weeks will be more open — we can listen to chapters or inspiring podcasts while crafting, or just get together and talk — to give people a chance to catch up or take some time. The initial meeting on March 3rd is a welcome meeting for introductions, to pick up the book, and to set some intentions— no need to read anything yet. The cost is $40 plus the purchase of the book. To register, come by the shop or email alibibookshop@gmail.com. Registration “closes” the end of March. This group is truly one of the best things I have ever been a part of, and I’m looking forward to doing it again— and welcoming new folks to the fold! Hope to see you!