I enjoyed this one. I first learned about art journaling... gosh, was it fifteen years ago now? ... from my aunt, who guided my mom, my siblings, and me through making our own art journals from canvas paper (for the cover) and mixed media paper. Now, Susan Hensley doesn't mention the handmade kind of journal in her book--it's focused more for the beginner, and shares materials to get you started.

And while there are no tutorials, no how-tos, "Art For Your Sanity" is still helpful in its suggestions and the examples from Susan's own art journals over the years. She emphasizes that there is no right or wrong way to do it, and you can even change it up while you work--whatever strikes you! Your mood can guide the journaling session, right down to materials used. I'm definitely going for crayons or colored pencils instead of brush markers when I'm angry, stressed, or upset.

Maybe that box of National Geographic magazines I was gonna get rid of has a better use in my art journal instead!

One of the book’s standout features is its blend of personal stories, practical advice, and hands-on prompts. Hensley weaves in her journey with art journaling, sharing vibrant examples from her journals, which makes the process feel approachable and inviting. Her insights into how journaling can be used to process grief, trauma, and other difficult emotions are invaluable. By using colors, shapes, and images, readers can access feelings that are often hard to put into words, making this book a safe space for emotional exploration.

This book is a very surface-level discussion of how art journaling as been beneficial for the author. I don't doubt it, of course, since I myself also use an art journaling practice as part of my mindfulness and meditation. That said, I think this book is more of a personal reflection--it reads more like a personal blog or journal entry with some pop psychology mixed in--and it does not have the scope or depth that many readers will expect. There is not an informed discussion of arts-based mindfulness (as might come from an author with a background in art therapy or mindfulness/meditation). The book also lacks a variety of art-making methods or skills-based practices (as might come from an author with a background in studio art). The examples from the author's journal are all very similar--in terms of method and materials (some magazine collage and paint)--and don't address deep emotional strife, trauma, true chaos, and so on. I worry that there's no guidance on how to process what art journaling might bring up, and there's no mention of how different processes, materials, and practices might aid someone to process emotions through art journaling. I don't know the author's qualifications, but I think the book should take care not to make a claim about this being art therapy (which a real field of therapy requiring a degree and licensure), and should perhaps reconsider the title's use of the word "sanity."

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Art therapy has been found to be a very useful tool in supporting many different conditions such as cancer, trauma, substance abuse disorder and eating disorders but it isn’t widely offered on the NHS making it too costly for many people to be able to use. This book helps make art journaling, a form of art therapy, affordable and accessible to many. I liked how the book covers topics such as the healing effects of art journaling and journaling for self-discovery and found the pictures from the authors own journal helpful. Finally, I personally loved the dedication as a touching start to the book.

As someone who loved art journaling I expected more, this book was not what I was expecting. It would have benefited from having some more tips and techniques along with additional photos.

What is this? I'm sorry, but I can't see how in good conscience this can be sold for actual money.

There's nothing in this book. Just a few photos of the author's own journal, and their own journey journalling.. nothing practical. That explains the extremely short length.

As others have already mentioned, this is more like a blog post. It should be free. My sanity is gone.

I didn't know what to expect with this book but I really enjoyed it. It holds the reader by the hand and opens up a whole world of creativity - creating for yourself, not for others, which in itself is such a beautiful and necessary idea. Practical, interesting, and accessible.

This entire book could've been a blog post.

There was very little added value if I compare "Art for Your Sanity" to any art journalling guidance that's already available online and for free. What I found the most positive aspect of this publication were the examples of author's own journalling that weren't pretty or aesthetically pleasing, which was a bit of a contrast to the overly-aestheticised world of art journals, giving readers permission to enjoy the experience, without focusing too much on the composition or prettiness of the final product.

"Art for Your Sanity" didn’t quite hit the mark for me. I was expecting a guide on journaling with tips and inspiration, but it turned out to be more of a memoir. The author mostly talks about their own journaling experience rather than offering new ideas or advice. If you’re already into journaling, this book might not give you the boost you’re looking for.

‘Art for Your Sanity’ by Susan Hensley is an insightful guide to using art journaling as a therapeutic tool to manage life’s chaos and find joy in creative expression. The book offers readers practical techniques and encouragement to explore their inner worlds through art, making it a valuable resource for those looking to enhance their mental well-being through creativity.

Accuracy: ★★★★☆
Hensley’s approach to art journaling is well-researched and grounded in psychological principles. She provides accurate and reliable information on the benefits of creative expression for mental health. While the book leans heavily on anecdotal evidence and personal experience, it is clear that Hensley has done her homework, ensuring that her advice is both credible and useful.

Perspective: ★★★★☆
Hensley’s perspective is both empathetic and empowering. She understands that everyone’s journey with mental health is unique and offers a non-judgmental space for readers to explore their creativity. Her encouragement to use art as a tool for self-discovery and healing is both refreshing and uplifting. However, the book could have benefited from a broader range of perspectives, perhaps including more diverse voices and experiences in the art journaling community.

Relevance: ★★★★☆
In a world where stress and anxiety are all too common, ‘Art for Your Sanity’ is highly relevant. Hensley addresses the growing need for accessible mental health practices, and art journaling is presented as a powerful, yet simple, tool that anyone can use. The book’s emphasis on finding joy through creativity makes it a timely and important read for anyone seeking to bring more balance and positivity into their life.

Engagement: ★★★☆☆
While the content is valuable, the book can feel a bit slow at times. Hensley’s writing, while clear and informative, lacks the dynamic energy that might keep readers fully engaged from start to finish. Some sections may feel repetitive or overly detailed, which could detract from the overall pacing. Nevertheless, the book’s practical exercises and reflective prompts do provide opportunities for active engagement.

Readability: ★★★★☆
Hensley writes in an approachable and easy-to-understand style, making the concepts accessible to readers of all backgrounds. The book is well-organized, with clear instructions and helpful illustrations that guide readers through the process of art journaling. Hensley’s use of simple language and clear explanations ensures that the book is user-friendly, even for those who may be new to art or journaling.

Enjoyment: ★★★☆☆
‘Art for Your Sanity’ is a pleasant read, though it may not be the most exciting book on the topic of art and mental health. While Hensley’s passion for the subject is evident, the book’s tone can feel a bit subdued at times, which might not resonate with all readers. That said, those who appreciate a gentle, thoughtful approach to self-care through art will likely find joy in Hensley’s guidance.


‘Art for Your Sanity’ by Susan Hensley is a thoughtful and practical guide to using art journaling as a tool for mental health and well-being. While it may not be the most engaging read for everyone, the book offers valuable insights and accessible techniques for anyone looking to explore creativity as a means of managing stress and finding joy. Hensley’s empathetic and empowering approach makes this book a worthwhile resource for those interested in the therapeutic potential of art.

While not exactly what I was expecting, it’s a lovely book.

I wanted a concise introduction book to art journaling and the science behind it as I like to hear the science concepts, so it’s not exactly what I was expecting and that cause it to be lower on my rating, but if you’re looking for an easy introductory book that gives you a base of how to integrate art journaling into your life, this might be the book to you.

The book is great at showing how art journaling can be super simple, non-expensive and easy/quick way to improve your life and help you push past your critic self. It was a quick read and it’s doesn’t gate-keep art. The writer makes it quite the emphasis that the point of art journaling is not the end product or improving your art skills but allow you the freedom and playfulness that will allow you to feel more free and in touch.

I will probably try to find a more detailed book on this topic in the future, but I don’t regret reading this book.

Thank you SH&H Publishing LLC for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.”

I was expecting an concise introduction into art journaling and the book really lacked in that matter. It was more of a memoir and how the author uses art journaling personally which I wasn't interested in. Still, lovely design and accessible writing.

In “Art For Your Sanity,” Susan Hensley shares with us such special vulnerability, as she details her life experiences and the growth of her art journaling practice. As a licensed mental health practitioner, I REALLY enjoyed this book and will ABSOLUTELY be recommending this to clients I work with. Hensley’s vulnerability and writing style enjoyably makes a compelling argument for using art journaling as a tool for our wellbeing and emotional processing.
“Art journaling helps us stop kicking and screaming our way between the stages of life and instead become an observer and trust the process. We can use our art journal to identify opportunities for course correction and respond to surprises with calm and curiosity. Because very rarely will success happen the way we think it will.”
Initially, I thought that this book may offer a variety of prompts and ideas to aid the reader in filling the pages of their own art journal. The list of prompts or places to start Hensley offers is not the primary content of the book - and I am totally okay with that! The primary content of this book is inspiring the reader to stretch their right-brain imagination and follow their inner artist; NOT guiding the readers’ left-brain skills of following instructions. The pages of Hensely’s own art journal captured are excellent reminders that we are not working towards an outcome or product, but rather creating pages that are meaningful to only ourselves.

Art for Your Sanity : How Art Journaling Can Help You Manage Chaos and Unleash Joy. Some good encouragement for just giving it a go whatever your artist capability. which is good. However I would have liked to see more examples and practical advice for different techniques. Overall good for all the encouragement.

Art For Your Sanity by Susan Hensley is a wonderful resource for anyone looking to start an art journaling practice. Even if you feel you're not talented artistically, I believe you'll find encouragement in this quick and easy read.

This book offers simple and fun examples that take the pressure off the final product while focusing on the process itself and how you can work through emotions. Hensley shares journaling ideas and starting points that make the process feel accessible and not so overwhelming. She covers the emotional benefits of art journaling and explains how the creative process can address various emotional and mental health issues such as uncertainty, fear, anger, sadness, and anxiety. This book is an inspiring guide that makes art fun for anyone with the desire to give it a try, I would definitely recommend this book to anyone interested in mixing creativity and play with their emotional healing practice.

Thank you to SH&H Publishing LLC and NetGalley for providing an eARC in exchange for my honest review.

I am an urban sketcher, an artist and keen diarist and enjoy putting together scrapbooks. I was therefore drawn to this book as I was quite interested in combining some of these skills and how that would work in producing a journal, which I’ve not done before.

The book is quite well laid out and I think he’s aimed at beginners first and foremost. There is practical guidance and the emphasis on well-being which I guess is the motivation of many diarists and artists generally as a kind of spin off from their work. The author provides some inspiring stories and insights Into the helpfulness of journaling during the pandemic and includes a range of useful techniques, including mindful drawing, collage, as well as simply doodling et cetera. Journaling is certainly a useful way of exploring your feelings and emotions without any limits being placed on you, focusing on positivity and looking fresh at the world also way of recording and visualising daily life. Perhaps it is the human response to trying to make sense of our daily lives.

I found the book refreshing and open and I think many people would benefit from reading this book. My thanks to the publisher SH&H Publishing LLC for providing, an advance reader copy digitally and to the author. My opinions are my own.

An ok read but not what I was expecting- would have loved more tips and details on different techniques

While sharing how art journaling has helped her in many aspects of life, the author encourages her readers to pick up the practice. While the book is well- written, I felt disappointed that it was not more practical with more pages given to tips and techniques. Beginners would have benefitted with more ideas and galleries of examples of different styles of art journaling.

Thank you SH&H Publishing LLC and NetGalley for a copy of Art for Your Sanity.

"When you were a child, there was no better feeling than picking up a crayon and letting your imagination run free. The joy, simplicity, and freedom of just creating was easy and honest. As you became an adult, life became complicated and overwhelming. When navigating the tricky path of inevitable life changes—like job loss, relationships, infertility, grief, or uncertainty of the future—it can be a struggle to find that simple clarity again. How can you manage the chaos and find your authentic self again?"

What a wonderful book to assure me that my junk journal is actually beneficial for me! I love how Susan Hensley provides a guide, ideas, and examples in this book. Great for those who need that little nudge to start their art journal!

4.5 stars. Art journaling has always fascinated me. I’ve always wanted to do it, but needed help getting started. I read a couple other books before, but they were too complicated. This book explained things well. It also had a few prompts and plenty of examples. I haven’t had a chance to sit down and art journal, but this book will definitely be helpful when I do. I got an advanced readers copy from NetGalley but my review is unbiased.