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, carpenters, 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’. It is for everyone who has ever felt stuck creatively, for those who don’t know how to begin, for those who feel they have so much welling up inside and are just trying to find a way into themselves.

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 and find happiness.

Divided into seven chapters, each addresses an obstruction to creativity with a suggested remedy, including gently challenging ‘provocations’ and generous, conversational advice. This book is all you need to overcome doubt and start off on your own creative journey. It is an exhilarating, empowering clarion call to experience the joy and freedom of creating.

Publisher: Batsford

Published: March 2026

Format: Hardback

Pages: 288

Dimensions: 21 x 4 x 15 cm