I am always interested in books about creativity and the creative process. If you want to read about process, this book is for you, regardless of whether or not you are a bead artist or not. The shapes and colors, alone, are enough to inspire ideas for a few years. The author makes a point of saying that she wanted to go beyond jewelry in showing what could be created with beads.

The artists are from many different countries and backgrounds. The first artist, Ulli Kaiser is dear to my heart simply because she comes from Austria. Her silver and aqua/turquoise (color not bead type) are beautiful.

Each section includes photos of the artists' work, but also some biographical information. Many of the artists make jewelry, but Marina Dempster's section includes several pairs of amazing beaded shoes. I particularly like the pair called Horny. I am not enamoured of the name, but can appreciate the play of words. I like the shape and color of the shoes. Another section, from South Africa, shows vessels. Other artist show tableau, consumer goods, sculpture, dolls and statues (Betsy Youngquist's works are amazing, if a little creepy), wreaths, clothing, animals and much, much more.

Helena Markonsalo's work reminds me of Susan Shie's airbrushed quilts.

There are also a wide variety of designs rendered in beads. Markonsalo's work could be described as "shabby chic" while Jan Huling's work has a definite Native American feel. There are many other aesthetics to delight all readers.

If you ever wanted to know what, besides jewelry, could be created with beads, this book will provide hours of inspiration. There is so much included that I could not help, but go and visit websites of the artists and I have many more to view.