An uplifting, positive and powerful book that explores how to break through fear and find joy through creativity, from bestselling author Holly Ringland.

The House That Joy Built is about how to give ourselves permission to be creative. It explores all the big fears that can block our creativity, and the permission we can meet those fears with – not simply to create, but to revel in the life-changing wonder and joy of doing so. It offers a jump-start for the nervous heart of anyone whose desire to create is ruled by fear. It is a book for those people who yearn to write, as well as people who find their creativity in other ways: gardeners,, sculptors, jewellery-makers, florists, songwriters, dancers, cooks, painters … anyone who wants to make something but doesn't because they're afraid. Afraid of feeling vulnerable, of criticism and judgement from others, of not being good enough, of not having enough, of having 'bad ideas', of being 'too much'.

In lyrical, inspirational prose, Holly examines her own sometimes difficult journey to a successful writing career, and offers a wealth of encouragement for anyone who wants to unlock their imagination. Divided into eight chapters, each addresses an obstruction to creativity with a suggested remedy, including generous, conversational advice. This book is an exhilarating, empowering clarion call to overcome doubt and experience the joy and freedom of creating.



Holly Ringland is the author of two internationally bestselling and multi-award-winning novels, The Lost Flowers of Alice Hart and The Seven Skins of Esther Wilding. Her first work of non-fiction, The House That Joy Built, became a bestseller in Australia upon publication, and she writes a beloved and bestselling Substack, The Joy Rise, on the intersection of creativity and connection. Her books have sold over 500,000 copies and have been published in over 30 international territories. In 2021, Holly made her TV debut co-hosting the ABC TV factual series Back to Nature, which aired in prime time and to critical acclaim. In 2023, The Lost Flowers of Alice Hart was adapted for an award-winning seven-part series starring Sigourney Weaver.



Prologue

Introduction



- Fear + Play

- Self-Doubt + Self-Compassion

- Failure + Nothing is Wasted

- Procrastination + Presence

- Inner Critic + Inner Fan

- Outer Critic + Resilience

- Creative Block + Daydream Machine

- Imposter Syndrome + You Belong Here

Epilogue



' A joyous gift from the heart, practical and wise. Blasts those I-can't-do-this terrors with both barrels. '



'Whether you're practising or procrastinating, a painter or a gardener, tentative or brave, you'll find sanctuary in this book. '



'Holly lays her heart out on the page and encourages readers to do the same ...'



'A heart, mind, soul delight'.



'A gift for all my friends, regardless of if they think they are creative or not.'



'A non-fiction masterpiece'



'A radiant invitation for writers, makers, and dreamers alike to rediscover the transformative power of creating.'