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Essential Reading for Artists and Students of Life

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These are the books I try to reread every year or so. Invaluable tools that have applications in so many different fields.
 
Maria Banson • MFB Casting profile picture
When I need a creative jump start, I go to this book first.
The Creative Habit: Learn It And Use It For Life (Twyla Tharp)
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Maria Banson • MFB Casting profile picture
Basically a 12 week workshop in defining who you are as an artist. I've been doing daily morning pages for as long as I can remember, and I come back to walk The Artist's Way every year.
The Artist's Way (Julia Cameron)
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Maria Banson • MFB Casting profile picture
Mindset over everything. A must read for professionals in any field, from a sports psychologist who has worked with everyone from LeBron James to Lady Gaga.
How Champions Think (Dr. Bob Rotella)
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Maria Banson • MFB Casting profile picture
A core philosophy of mine, all written in one book. If you're a fan of THE BEAR, you know how much of a game changer this book can be. Just ask Cousin Richie.
Unreasonable Hospitality (Will Guidara)
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Maria Banson • MFB Casting profile picture
A great memoir from a modern operatic legend. Applicable to performing artists of all media, not just opera singers. Proof positive that artists are crafted, not born.
The Inner Voice (Renée Fleming)
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Maria Banson • MFB Casting profile picture
Part memoir, part wine recommendations, all heart. If you're a female- or nonbinary-identifying person in a male dominated field, this book deserves an extra special place on your TBR list.
Vignette: Stories of Life & Wine in 100 Bottles (Jane Lopes)
 
Maria Banson • MFB Casting profile picture
A short read for the person with big dreams and wants more time to get them done. I like to habit stack this one by listening to the audiobook on my morning walks!
Atomic Habits (James Clear)
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Maria Banson • MFB Casting profile picture
This one was a true game changer for me. Even if I'm not waking up at 5 AM every day, I developed my daily morning routine rituals because of this book.
The 5 AM Club (Robin Sharma)
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Maria Banson • MFB Casting profile picture
The Business of Entertainment is often misunderstood. Artists especially are used to devaluing themselves in the name of experience or exposure. Read this book if you consider yourself a creative professional.
The Psychology of Money (Morgan Housel)
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Maria Banson • MFB Casting profile picture
Came across this book while prepping for A FEW GOOD MEN. It may not be for everyone, but it helped me to develop the mindset and discipline I need. Another great audiobook recommendation!
Embrace the Suck: The Navy SEAL Way to an Extraordinary Life (Brent Gleeson)
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Maria Banson • MFB Casting profile picture
A must read for actors. This is a tough read for sure, but it helps people understand how trauma affects the way people move (and how to define the necessary boundaries between character and actor).
The Body Keeps the Score (Bessel van der Kolk M.D.)
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Maria Banson • MFB Casting profile picture
Stepping into a different version of yourself? Sounds like something actors do on a daily basis. Worth purchasing for the luxurious cover, and definitely worth reading to remind yourself of all the things you deserve.
Manifest (Roxie Nafousi)