The books included here focus on several topics that are particularly relevant for those interested in expanding their understanding of how people navigate a world of almost infinite variation and challenge: the basic and compelling roles narratives play in determining how we interact and communicate; the uncanny ability humans have, given the right tools, to repeatedly pick themselves up and move forward after setbacks or trauma; and fresh perspectives on our history and some of the philosophical underpinnings that define the USA.
Dallos, Rudi and Arlene Vetere. (2021). Systemic Therapy and Attachment Narratives. (2nd Edition). Routledge.
Kim, Jeong-Hee. (2015). Understanding Narrative Inquiry: The Crafting and Analysis of Stories as Research. Sage.
Thomas, Bronwen. (2015). Narrative: The Basics. Routledge.
Vonnegut, Kurt. (1950). “The Shapes of Stories.” University of Chicago (rejected Master’s thesis).
Resiliency
Bolsinger, Tod. (2020). Tempered Resilience: How Leaders Are Formed in the Crucible of Change. IVP.
Burke, Tarana and Brené Brown. (2021). You Are Your Best Thing: Vulnerability, Shame, Resilience and the Black Experience. Random House.
CATO (Coalition of Asian Pacifics in Entertainment). (Ed.). (2022). My Life: Growing Up Asian in America. MTV Books.
Fuller, Cheryl and Rebecca Leimkuehler. (2022). Forward-Facing for Educators: A Journey to Professional Resilience and Compassion Restoration. Outskirts Press.
Hanson, Rick (2020). Resilient: How to Grow an Unshakable Core of Calm, Strength, and Happiness. Harmony.
Schiraldi, Glenn. (2017). The Resilience Workbook: Essential Skills to Recover from Stress, Trauma, and Adversity. New Harbinger.
Singh, Anneliese. (2021). Queer and Transgender Resilience Workbook: Skills for Navigating Sexual Orientation and Gender Expression. ReadHowYouWant.com.
Philosophy
Hegseth, Pete. (2022). Battle for the American Mind: Uprooting a Century of Miseducation. Broadside Books.
Lewis, Gordon R. (2022). Fear of Black Consciousness. Farrer, Strauss & Giroux.
Radwell, Seth David. (2021). American Schism: How the Two Enlightenments Hold the Secret to Healing Our Nation. Greenleaf Book Group.
Race and Dialogue
Sue, Derald Wing. (2015). Race Talk and the Conspiracy of Silence: Understanding and Facilitating Difficult Dialogues on Race. Wiley.