“One of the things I pride myself on is being able to fit into whatever film I do,” the actor and artist James Franco told The Guardian last year, explaining his diverse resume that ranges from stoner comedies (Pineapple Express) to arthouse flicks (Wim Wenders’ 3D-drama Everything Will Be Fine). Over the years, Franco has both charmed and bemused critics with his refusal to be placed in a neat box, exploring the realms of poetry, fiction, art, and  performance with equal gusto. His Twitter and Instagram feeds alone might qualify as an art project. Not everyone approves—”I don’t think anybody’s afraid to write a bad review of my stuff,” he told New York Magazine — but his all-consuming commitment to creativity can’t be denied.

Below are James Franco’s favorite books, available to purchase as a set or individually.