The title of this book caught my eye and caused me to request it because it seems to be a very timely topic. "I Never Thought of It That Way" by Monica Guzman promises to teach you "how to have fearlessly curious conversations in dangerously divided times." Guzman reiterates that there are three patterns humans use when relating to others: sorting, othering, and siloing. Sometimes these patterns are helpful, but oftentimes they're divisive. While there's a strong tendency to follow these patterns, we need to avoid them at all costs.

Guzman encourages her readers to ask CARE questions: curious, answerable, raw, and exploring in order to create relationships with others who are different from us. I thought this book was thought provoking and that many will find it helpful. Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC. All opinions are my own.

In these pages, you’ll learn:
How to ask what you really want to know (even if you’re afraid to)
How to grow smarter from even the most tense interactions, online or off
How to cross boundaries and find common ground—with anyone

Whether you’re left, right, center, or not a fan of labels: If you’re ready to fight back against the confusion, heartbreak, and madness of our dangerously divided times—in your own life, at least—Mónica’s got the tools and fresh, surprising insights to prove that seeing where people are coming from isn’t just possible. It’s easier than you think.

The premise was interesting, but I did not enjoy this book.
I was not too fond of the simplistic (and at times cringy) journalistic style and the way in which the author explained things felt too naive and hopeful.
I get it, we should all try and get out of our little social media bubbles where we only engage in conversations with people with whom we share views and values... but sometimes it's just impossible to talk and have meaningful discussions with BIGOTS.
I'm sorry, I wanted to like this but it's not that simple.

I found this book fascinating. It definitely hit home for me. I'm the left leaning daughter of a right Leaning father. I definitely agree that we need to do something about the hate and division around politics in this country.

This was a good primer on having meaningful conversations with those who don't share your same views. I really liked the structure and background Guzman presents regarding building bridges through communication.

Overall, the tone is a bit rosy and optimistic, which I don't think is always the most realistic. It might be triggering for some to pursue conversations with others who have a problem with their core identity. This book is aimed at people who want to have those conversations and make connections.

The author is liberal, but presents left and right leaning perspectives and engagement. I did appreciate the sections on how to converse in a curious way and considering why we hold the specific beliefs we do. Structured suggestions and questions are provided, making the process more straightforward. This is a helpful guide to connection and conversation.

Thank you to the publisher for providing this ebook. All thoughts are my own.