'Leaders are Readers' – Book Reviews
A curated collection of insights and key takeaways from a wide range of influential books.
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Going Horizontal: Creating a Non-Hierarchical Organization, One Practice at a Time
In “Going Horizontal,” Samantha Slade presents a tangible and down-to-earth approach to horizontal organizing, emergent systems, and grassroots democracy. As a social activist, facilitator, human resources practitioner, and change agent, I found the book to be a useful tool in replicating oppressive systems of hierarchy. Slade’s practical suggestions and check-in questions make the book truly […]
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The Sol Cafe: What’s missing is U
Are you a lifelong learner? Are you curious about the science and practice of adult learning? If so, you need to check out Joyce Matthews’ book to understand how adults learn. Matthews’ book is a fantastic introduction to the subject, providing readers with the five key pillars for understanding adult learners and at least seven […]
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The Snowball Effect: Communication Techniques to Make You Unstoppable
Andy Bounds’ book on communication is a must-read for anyone looking to improve their communication skills. As someone who has had to explain things from someone else’s point of view due to his own and his mother’s partial blindness, his unique perspective on communication is insightful and practical. His advice is refreshingly simple and straightforward, […]
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Focus: The Hidden Driver of Excellence
I have read this book twice, which is a big deal because my attention span is shorter than a goldfish’s memory. It’s that good! Daniel Goleman’s “Focus” has been a great help in improving my relationships and focus. Let’s face it, our minds are constantly overloaded, and what we call “multi-tasking” is really just a […]
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The Well-Gardened Mind: The Restorative Power of Nature
Oh nature, what can’t it do? It’s like the Swiss Army Knife of life! I mean, it’s not just good for providing us with oxygen, shelter, and Instagram-worthy scenery, it’s also a facilitation ninja! Who knew that spending time in the great outdoors could boost your productivity, creativity, and mood? Not me, until my friend […]
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Chatter
It is raining here in Canada’s Capital and it would be a waste if I didn’t curl up to a good book! This book selection is from blueprint North America Book Club and our members sure know how to pick them! Ethan Kross explores the importance of the inner voice within our daily lives. If I tell […]
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Getting to the Bottom of Top: Foundations of the Methodologies of the Technology of Participation
Given the state of affairs in an inner-city neighborhood, in general and given the tragic shootings that took place in the neighborhood recently, a large number of young people and organizations in a community are of the opinion that the development of a youth action plan would be important in determining and guiding responses, initiatives, […]
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Facilitating Breakthrough: How to Remove Obstacles, Bridge Differences, and Move Forward Together
This has been the #1 most recommended book to me of 2021! It was on my TBR list and after attending a session hosted by Shakil Choudhury Cofounder of Anima Leadership, an organization with a vision for ‘leadership for a world where all people matter and belong’, I knew, I not only had to read it, but also […]
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How to Work a Room: The Ultimate Guide to Making Lasting Connections
NETWORKING = BUILDING CONNECTIONS I use to loathe “networking”. It is only until recent years that I discovered building connections is actually something that brings me great joy. It is also one of the reasons I love this platform and a primary reason I love my job. This past year with COVID, I’ve intentionally went […]
