Redemptive and insightful, "Civil Unity" by Shola Richards is a clarion call to transform our divisive discourse. With vulnerability and conviction, Richards shares personal anecdotes and practical strategies to bridge the gaps between us. His radical approach emphasizes empathy, active listening, and self-reflection, encouraging us to confront our biases and assumptions. This book is a beacon of hope for a more harmonious world, where we can engage in meaningful dialogue and foster true understanding. Richards' writing is engaging, accessible, and inspiring – a must-read for anyone seeking to cultivate unity in our fractured society. 5/5 stars!

This is an honest book written for a mass audience. Her argument isn't new, but the fact that she writes towards Americans, not just other academically and scholarly minded types has more force behind it. So much attention has been given to the causes and methods to correct polarization and toxicity in politics, but Richards writes as your next door neighbor, not the condescending want-to-be authority figure.

This book will be an excellent addition to any public library, community center, or educational organization. Opening with a description of civility and the ways in which modern life could benefit from civility, the book then walks the reader through the process of building a civil life. From immediate steps that can be taken to restore and maintain personal balance to larger habits of examination and engagement that can be applied across all aspects of life, Civil Unity blends big picture reasoning with practical tools. While an excellent book to read and journal along with as part of a personal practice, this book will shine as the centerpiece of a book club or community read where the ground rules can be shared and the techniques practiced together. Thank you to NetGalley for access to this engaging and informative arc.

Never in history has this book been so useful because we are so easily triggered that it's difficult to have a meaningful conversation and this book is one to sit down with and explore just what it means to give a listening ear to someone with opposing views and also someone with similar views.
Thanks Netgalley for the eARC.