“This book is revolutionary. It’s a once in a generation book that will rewire your brain” — Tom Ahern

What’s Creative Deviations about? It’s about you and your creativity. It’s all about thinking up sharp and surprising donor communications that do a much better job of raising money and retaining supporters. And it’s simply dripping with fundamentals, secrets, tips and ideas!

“This is a book that every fundraiser who communicates with donors (so that’s EVERY fundraiser!) should be reading regularly to remind them of the deviations that make such a huge difference!” — Paul Courtney, Director of Fundraising, Children’s Hospice South West, UK

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What fundraisers like you think!

  • John, I cannot begin to tell you how helpful Creative Deviations was for creating my fall appeal. The book has truly been glued to my side for the past two weeks and I know it will be for years to come. This is the first appeal I've authored, which came with some natural stress. I know I would've struggled if I didn't learn about this book last month from Fundraiser Chad. I implemented a number of your suggestions, but because you packed the book with so many ideas there are many more to implement or try in future appeals. My direct supervisor, marketing director and CEO all love the letter I drafted. This has also boosted my confidence in my fundraising career and my newly acquired more senior role. All in all, well done and big thank you to you!

    Gina Grove Development Manager - VNA & Hospice of the Southwest Region

  • "I'm reading a few chapters a night, backwards from the end. It's a technique I learned for dealing with myriad how-to books, which tend to plod to the finish line. There should be a plodding-book Olympics: 'How slowly can you go? He's going even more slowly now, fans. Yes, definitely. I've never seen an author drag it out this much! I think we may have a winner!!!' "Look, John: I knew you were good -- presence, attitude, information, geekiness. Then after I heard you a few times I knew you were great. Then as the years passed I knew you were uniquely brilliant (and appreciated food, wine). "And then I started reading deeply into your book LAST NIGHT. (I'd skimmed before.) In my original promo blurb I'd said your new (first) effort was a 'once in a generation book.' And that's when I'd only seen an early digital copy of the manuscript. "Now I don't know what to say: I've honestly never seen anything like this book -- maybe the Book of Kells? In the fundraising world: nothing even close. You won't need to write another book (which will probably come as a relief). Just update this one every 7 years or so."

    Tom Ahern, Ahern Communications

  • John! I just have to tell you that Creative Deviations is my new favorite nonprofit resource guide! And yes, I have quite the collection, and I've read them all. All of Tom Aherns, Tom & Simone's, Jeff Brooks, Penelope Burk, Jerry Panas, Ken Burnett. (You get the idea!) I've already quoted your book to clients, added commentary to trainings, and recommended people buy this! You could call me a raving fan! (But not in a creepy stalker way. I promise!) Tell me the truth, John. In the middle of p. 159 where you talk about imperfections being perfection, was that a test to see who'd notice?? 😉 Seriously, I think you're pretty perfect. Thanks for all you share with the sector… especially this latest gift to all nonprofit professionals. (Oh, and if you ever do offer a nerdy OE workshop, I'll be on the front row!)

    Laura Rhodes, CFRE, Greater Asheville