Amazon said about Ben Behunin’s book, “Put a Cherry on Top, The Secrets of Creating an Artful Life,” that “This book will encourage you to return to the place in your own life where you lived without fear and believed you were an artist.” The book's message seems to be that we have the power to change the world around us and that we can change whatever we do into a work of art.

The cover and left-hand pages tell us this is a coloring book, and some may color in it, but most of us will likely enjoy the quotes and artwork.

About one-fourth of the book is a memoir about Behunin’s story of becoming a potter and then a writer. It begins with his first year of high school, his service for his church in Germany, and his return to work in a pottery shop. We learn of his marriage and how he made a living as a potter and then was drawn into writing.

My wife brought a copy of this book from her “women only” book club. She told me about Ben’s life story, which he had presented at the monthly club meeting.  Ben quickly adds converts to his skills in pottery and writing. A local radio show in Salt Lake City heard about him from a lady in San Diego who had learned of his work at her book club.  

A very inspiring book.

Ben Behunin Quotes

“There is more to a boy than what his mother sees. There is more to a boy than what his father dreams. Inside every boy lies a heart that beats. And sometimes it screams, refusing to take defeat. And sometimes, his father's dreams aren't big enough, and sometimes his mother's vision isn't long enough. And sometimes the boy has to dream his dreams and break through the clouds with his sunbeams.” 

“We have to bloom where we are planted, enjoy the sunlight while we can, and thank the heavens for the rain that not only beats us down but feeds us and makes us stronger.” 

― Ben Behunin, Remembering Isaac: The Wise and Joyful Potter of Niederbipp