Part 1 On Tyranny by Timothy Snyder Summary “On Tyranny: Twenty Lessons from the Twentieth Century” by Timothy Snyder is a concise and powerful reflection on the threats to democracy and individual freedoms, drawing lessons from historical events, particularly the rise of totalitarian regimes in the 20th century. Here are the key points and themes … Read more
Part 1 Loud by Drew Afualo Summary “Loud” by Drew Afualo is a powerful poem that focuses on themes of self-empowerment, resilience, and the necessity of raising one’s voice against societal injustices and personal struggles. In the poem, Afualo emphasizes the importance of being heard and the strength that comes from speaking out against adversity. … Read more
Part 1 Everything I Want To Do Is Illegal by Joel Salatin Summary “Everything I Want to Do Is Illegal” by Joel Salatin is a thought-provoking book that critiques the regulatory environment surrounding small-scale farming and local food production in the United States. Salatin, a well-known advocate for sustainable agriculture, uses his own experiences on … Read more
Part 1 Deaf Again by Mark Drolsbaugh Summary “Deaf Again” is a memoir by Mark Drolsbaugh, who recounts his experiences growing up both as a deaf individual and navigating the hearing world. The book explores themes of identity, communication, and the challenges faced by those who are deaf. Drolsbaugh reflects on his early childhood, where … Read more
Part 1 The New Jim Crow by Michelle Alexander Summary “The New Jim Crow: Mass Incarceration in the Age of Colorblindness” by Michelle Alexander is a critical examination of the systemic racism and social injustices embedded in the U.S. criminal justice system. In her book, Alexander argues that mass incarceration functions as a contemporary system … Read more
Part 1 Post Traumatic Slave Syndrome by Joy DeGruy Leary Summary “Post Traumatic Slave Syndrome: America’s Legacy of Injury and Healing” is a book by Dr. Joy DeGruy Leary that explores the historical and psychological impacts of slavery on African Americans and subsequent generations. In her work, DeGruy introduces the concept of Post Traumatic Slave … Read more
Part 1 One Nation Under Blackmail Vol. 1 by Whitney Alyse Webb Summary “One Nation Under Blackmail Vol. 1” by Whitney Alyse Webb delves into the intricate relationship between the deep state, intelligence agencies, and the complex web of political corruption in the United States, particularly through the lens of blackmail. Webb explores how intelligence … Read more
“Tattoos on the Heart” by Gregory Boyle is a profound exploration of compassion and redemption, rooted in the author’s experiences as a Jesuit priest in Los Angeles. Through a series of poignant stories, Boyle shares his work with gang-affiliated youth in the inner city, emphasizing the transformative power of love and acceptance. Each chapter unveils the struggles and triumphs of individuals seeking a path away from violence and despair, highlighting the importance of community and empathy. Boyle’s narrative is infused with humor and heart, making it a powerful testament to the human spirit and an inspiring call to action for kindness in a fractured world.
“Picking Cotton” is a gripping memoir by Jennifer Thompson-Cannino and Ronald Cotton that recounts their harrowing journey after a wrongful conviction. In 1984, Jennifer, a college student, was raped and mistakenly identified Ronald as her attacker, leading to his wrongful imprisonment for over a decade. This powerful narrative explores themes of trauma, justice, and forgiveness as both authors share their perspectives on the crime and its aftermath. Through their evolving relationship, they confront the societal and personal impacts of racial bias and the flaws in the legal system. Ultimately, “Picking Cotton” is a profound story of redemption, highlighting the potential for healing and understanding across divides, while advocating for reform in the justice system.
Chapter 1 What’s I Will Always Write Back by Caitlin Alifirenka “I Will Always Write Back,” written by Caitlin Alifirenka and Martin Ganda, is a compelling memoir that recounts the true story of an unexpected friendship between two teenagers from very different backgrounds. Caitlin, an American girl, starts a pen pal correspondence with Martin, a … Read more
