Originally published in 2009, this book is an excellent way to learn about Marshall Rosenberg’s Nonviolent Communication (NVC). The Lasaters clearly explain both why and how to practice Nonviolent Communication in all areas of life. This revised 2022 edition contains new content about communication at work, including how to communicate effectively in meetings, performance evaluations, emails, and phone calls.

I found so much to appreciate about this book. The authors’ explanation of how NVC meets yogic concepts of ahimsa (nonharming) and satya (truth) as well as Buddhist right speech made sense to me. As they suggest, “unless we are connected with ourselves, with our feelings and needs, then our speech will not clearly reflect what is true for us.” “All criticism is the tragic expression of unmet needs.” Memorable little gems like that are sprinkled throughout the text, elucidating many of the pitfalls we experience while communicating. The authors also provide plenty of examples of communicating with and without following the steps of NVC so that it is easy to see how to put these steps into practice. After the general explanation of NVC, additional chapters provide specific guidance for communicating with romantic partners, children and parents, at work, and out in the world.

Since communicating effectively is an essential human need, this book has something to offer everyone.

Thanks to Shambhala for providing me with an ARC through NetGalley that I volunteered to review.

Judith Lasater teaches us how to express our needs and desires in a nonviolent manner that is respectful and firm to the point. It teaches us to be more open about our needs without overwhelming the other or coming off too aggressively and demanding things. Requesting what we need with kindness opens the path for others to respond to your needs willingly without being forced and with enthusiasm.