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An uplifting and heartfelt guide from a true icon, best for those seeking inspiration over in-depth analysis. Recommended for learners and dreamers, less so for history buffs craving granular detail.

If you liked Across That Bridge: A Vision for Change and the Future of America, here are the top 13 books to read next:

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Showing 1 - 10 of 13 
  1. #1

    No One Is Too Small to Make a Difference by Greta Thunberg
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    A brief but impactful collection that amplifies Greta Thunberg's climate alarm and determination. It's motivating and straightforward - more rallying cry than science textbook. Fantastic as a spark for activism but may feel repetitive if you're after deeper analysis.

    'No One Is Too Small to Make a Difference' by Greta Thunberg is a collection of her powerful speeches on climate change, urging urgent action to address the environmental crisis. Thunberg's writing style is described as clear, direct, and impactful, with the ability to pierce one's heart with her words. The book highlights the need for immediate action to combat climate change and emphasizes the importance of listening to science and taking responsibility for the planet's future.

    Last summer, climate scientist Johan Rockström and some other people wrote that we have at most three years to reverse growth in greenhouse-gas emissions if we’re going to reach the goals set in the P...
    November 2019
    126 pages

  2. #2

    My Own Words by Ruth Bader Ginsburg
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    A thought-provoking celebration of RBG’s words and wisdom - perfect for admirers of her legacy or those seeking inspiration, but less so for readers craving a conventional autobiography.

    "My Own Words" by Ruth Bader Ginsburg is a collection of writings that span her life since the eighth grade. The book is divided into five sections, each offering insight into different aspects of Ginsburg's life and career, such as her early years, her role as an advocate for gender equality, and her views on judging and justice. Through personal essays, speeches, and tributes, readers get a glimpse into Ginsburg's professional journey, her dedication to gender equality, and her views on important legal issues.

    The writing style of the book is described as insightful and impactful, with Ginsburg's ability to write incisively shining through in every format she presents. The book provides a detailed look at the Supreme Court's operations, profiles of prominent legal figures, and Ginsburg's own thoughts on dissent, justice, and judicial independence. Overall, "My Own Words" offers readers a comprehensive view of Ruth Bader Ginsburg's life, work, and legacy in her own words.

    ALTHOUGH RUTH’Simmediate family was not devoutly religious, Jewish traditions were very much a part of her childhood. Her mother, Celia, lit candles every Friday night, and at Hanukkah all the grandch...
    October 2016
    463 pages

  3. #3

    The Element by Ken Robinson
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    An uplifting, story-filled exploration of passion and creativity that will inspire many - especially if you're curious about finding your calling or shaking up your thinking on education. But if you're seeking hands-on guidance or a concrete plan, you might want to look elsewhere.

    'The Element' by Ken Robinson explores the concept of finding one's passion and creativity in life. Through a collection of anecdotes and stories, Robinson highlights the importance of discovering and pursuing what truly excites and motivates individuals. He delves into the idea of being in one's element, where one's aptitude and passion intersect, leading to a fulfilling and successful life. Robinson also critiques the current education system for its lack of emphasis on nurturing creativity and individual talents, while providing examples of famous personalities who found their calling later in life.

    GILLIAN WAS ONLY eight years old, but her future was already at risk. Her schoolwork was a disaster, at least as far as her teachers were concerned. She turned in assignments late, her handwriting was...
    December 2008
    299 pages

  4. A personal, clear, and often hopeful wake-up call about overconsumption and climate, with just enough statistics to motivate change - perfect for readers new to the topic or anyone seeking practical, bite-sized inspiration to do better.

    'The Story of More: How We Got to Climate Change and Where to Go from Here' by author Hope Jahren takes readers on a journey through the last fifty years, exploring facts and figures to showcase the progression from past environmental conditions to the current state of climate change. The author discusses various topics such as extreme weather patterns, pollution, population growth, and the alarming rate of species extinction. Jahren presents the information in a clear and concise manner, making complex scientific concepts accessible to non-scientists. not only delves into the grim statistics of climate change but also offers practical solutions and hope for a better future through individual actions and global change.

    Almost ninety years ago, the guy who invented the light bulb urged renewable energy on the guy who invented the car and the guy who invented the tire. I imagine they nodded politely, finished their dr...
    2019
    212 pages

  5. A thought-provoking and playful look at why we do what we do - often for reasons we’d rather not admit. Highly recommended if you like your non-fiction with an evolutionary twist and don’t mind a little self-examination.

    'The Elephant in the Brain: Hidden Motives in Everyday Life' by Kevin Simler delves into the hidden motives behind human behavior, exploring how acts that seem altruistic on the surface often have underlying selfish intentions. Simler and co-author Robin Hanson challenge the traditional notions of charity, donations, and altruism, highlighting the role of self-deception and signaling in our actions. draws heavily on psychological and evolutionary research to uncover the ways in which humans deceive both themselves and others, ultimately arguing that our brains have evolved to succeed in a social setting through cultivating allies and mates.

    Before we get mired in the complexities of human social life, let’s start at a simpler beginning. Because humans are an animal species, we can learn a lot about ourselves by studying other animals (an...
    2018
    411 pages

  6. A powerful, uplifting moment captured in print - stirring and memorable, but best for poetry lovers or those wanting a physical keepsake. Consider borrowing or watching the recitation if you’re on the fence about the price.

    The Hill We Climb is an inaugural poem written by Amanda Gorman. It was delivered at President Biden's inauguration and has become a symbol of hope and unity. Gorman captures the challenges of America while encouraging progress and reconciliation. Her words resonate with a sense of inspiration as they address divisions within the country while emphasizing resilience.

    Gorman's writing style is powerful and moving, appealing to a wide audience. The poem's format resembles a picture book but is unillustrated, with thoughtful line breaks and generous margins. Although some may question its commercial appeal, Gorman's message and performance have left a lasting impact. Many readers appreciate her talent and look forward to her future works.

    March 2021

  7. A moving and approachable call to action that combines personal memoir with inspiring global stories - ideal for those seeking hope, understanding, and motivation to champion women's equality.

    'The Moment of Lift: How Empowering Women Changes the World' by Melinda Gates is a compelling account of empowering women globally to uplift communities and societies. Melinda Gates shares personal stories and experiences from her work with the Gates Foundation, highlighting issues like inequality, family planning, work disparity, child marriage, and access to contraceptives. Through raw and palpable insights, she emphasizes the need for gender equality and equal opportunities for women, showcasing how uplifting women can lead to societal progress and prosperity. combines narratives of empowering women in various regions like Africa, India, and the US, shedding light on the importance of addressing women's rights on a global scale.

    Let me start with some background. I attended Ursuline Academy, an all-girls Catholic high school in Dallas. In my senior year, I took a campus tour of Duke University and was awed by its computer sci...
    April 2019
    288 pages

  8. #8

    The Invention of Wings by Sue Monk Kidd
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    A moving, well-researched blend of fact and fiction that shines a light on lesser-known female heroes and the realities of slavery. Not always an easy read, but definitely a rewarding one for fans of historical fiction and stories of courage.

    "The Invention of Wings" by Sue Monk Kidd is a historical fiction novel based on the real-life story of sisters Sarah and Angelina Grimke, who were abolitionists and feminists in the 1800s. The book follows the parallel lives of Sarah, a daughter of a slave-owning family in Charleston, and Handful, a slave given to Sarah as a gift on her eleventh birthday. Through alternating perspectives, the author delves into the complexities of life in the antebellum South, shedding light on the struggles of both the free and enslaved individuals during that time period.

    The narrative of "The Invention of Wings" is praised for its attention to detail, intense research, and the powerful portrayal of characters like Handful. The book explores themes of slavery, feminism, abolitionism, and the societal constraints faced by individuals like Sarah Grimke, who challenged the norms of her time. Readers are captivated by the historical accuracy and the emotional depth of the story, which offers a poignant and thought-provoking look at the lives of those involved in the abolitionist movement.

    The day life turned into nothing this world could fix, I was in the work yard boiling slave bedding, stoking fire under the wash pot, my eyes burning from specks of lye soap catching on the wind. The...
    January 2014
    441 pages

  9. Warm, witty, and inspiring - a food memoir that might make you rethink your grocery list and dream of the joys of eating in season. Not without some preachy moments, but worth it for the storytelling, recipes, and fresh perspective on what food can be.

    'Animal, Vegetable, Miracle: A Year of Food Life' by Camille Kingsolver, Steven L. Hopp, and Barbara Kingsolver follows the Kingsolver family as they embark on a year-long journey to eat only food grown or produced locally. Through a mix of personal anecdotes, informative essays, and recipes, the book explores the challenges and rewards of living off the land and supporting local agriculture. The narrative balances humor with serious storytelling, drawing readers into the family's experiences as they navigate the complexities of sustainable living and the local food movement.

    The writing style in 'Animal, Vegetable, Miracle' is described as rich, vivid, and insightful by readers. Barbara Kingsolver's prose is praised for its descriptive quality, capturing the essence of growing food and eating locally with passion and authenticity. The inclusion of segments written by her husband and daughter adds depth to the narrative, offering different perspectives on the family's journey towards sustainable living. Overall, the book is a moving memoir that inspires readers to reconsider their relationship with food and the environment.

    This story about good food begins in a quick-stop convenience market. It was our family’s last day in Arizona, where I’d lived half my life and raised two kids for the whole of theirs. Now we were mov...
    2007
    406 pages

  10. #10

    Becoming by Michelle Obama
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    Uplifting, sincere, and inspiring - an empowering read for anyone looking to understand the real story behind an iconic First Lady. Best for fans of personal journeys and stories of hope, and a must-listen on audio with Michelle’s narration.

    "Becoming" by Michelle Obama is a heartfelt autobiography that delves into the life of the former First Lady of the United States. The book narrates Michelle's journey from her humble beginnings in Chicago to meeting and marrying Barack Obama, and eventually becoming the First Lady. Through her own voice, Michelle shares personal anecdotes, insights into her family life, her struggles and triumphs, and her unwavering commitment to her values and heritage. The book also touches on important themes such as education, racism, American politics, and the impact of the Obamas on the world.

    I spent much of my childhood listening to the sound of striving. It came in the form of bad music, or at least amateur music, coming up through the floorboards of my bedroom—the plink plink plink of s...
    January 2018
    506 pages

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