Akaa ‘Real Reads’ Book List by Elizabeth Plumley
Have you resorted to rereading the Harry Potter series for the third time? Considered struggling through another angst ridden summer romance? Hey, maybe the only reading you’ve done is the episode summaries on Netflix as you blazed through another couple seasons of your most recent show. No big deal, we’ve all come face to face with those unequivocal moments of boredom that everyone must confront during their summer “vacation.” As we delve deeper into summer, now may be the perfect time to check out something slightly more substantial. Whether you’re a recent graduate looking for some meaningful direction (or any direction for that matter) or just someone looking for a change of pace, these powerful reads really deliver.
1. The Blue Sweater, Jacqueline Novogratz
The Blue Sweater: Bridging the Gap Between Rich and Poor in an Interconnected World is an insightful portrayal of the difficulty, confusion, and frustration that can come with trying to impact an international world, and the reality that we don’t always know how to help. Jacqueline Novogratz’s quest to understand the world of philanthropy and business creates impromptu relationships across Africa and the U.S. The trials and mishaps of life on an unfamiliar continent are balanced by the lively splendor and intensity of Africa. Novogratz’s collaborations with local Rwandan women teach her lessons that eventually led her to the development of the Acumen Fund, one of the most effective and socially ambitious start-ups of this generation. Despite her success Novogratz’s tone is one of humility which makes the book relatable and successfully conveys the message that failure does not define us.
2. To Repair the World, Paul Farmer
To Repair the World: Paul Farmer Speaks to the Next Generation is the most recent book from revolutionary philanthropist and doctor Paul Farmer. Farmer is very cognizant of his audience in his call to action of up and coming change makers. Want to have an impact but don’t know how? Farmer provides a great jumping off point as he guides his audience through a collection of speeches which emphasize the duty of the next generation to not only make global health a priority but to find feasible solutions instead of unfounded good intentions. Whether you’re a post grad thinking about the future or just looking for a little perspective, Paul Farmer speaks with the conviction of experience and it’s truly worth the time to listen.
3. Lean In, Sheryl Sandberg
Lean In speaks to the importance of creating more female leaders in business, politics, and society as a whole. Now, before you go all, “I would never read a feminist book,” this book is about the importance of women stepping up to the plate. Women must learn not to allow subtle misogynistic undertones of society to deter them from making it to the top or allow themselves to be defined by archaic stereotypes that still permeate professional culture. Sandberg combats attitudes that imply women can’t have it all and must be the ones who compromise either personally or professionally.
4. The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down, Ann Fadiman
This was originally assigned to me in a Medical Anthropology class. My mandatory reading quickly turned into an eye opening description of the limitations of the modern medical system when a different culture conflicts with the norm. The poignant plight of one Hmong family will leave you frustrated and shocked at the lack of cultural understanding in a country that claims to be a melting pot. By the end you’ll be begging for translators and cultural understanding which teaches us that it is a medical professional’s job to be cognizant of atypical patient circumstances.
5. The Last Hunger Season, Roger Thurow
The Last Hunger Season: A Year in an African Farm Community on the Brink of Change seeks to understand rural villagers rather than presuming to know the problems of a very different way of life. This book sincerely relays the story of rural farmers and helps depict a more accurate reality of hunger, tough choices and ultimately perseverance. Many of us can’t relate to stories of scarcity that rural farmers face, but everyone can all find inspiration in the perseverance of people who are born with the odds staked against them.
Are these books worth giving up season 4 of Mad Men or a Law and Order marathon? We’ll let you be the judge, but first you’ve got to give these outstanding people and powerful reads a shot. Fire up your Kindle and get inspired by people who demand more of their society and whose revelations inspire.
Elizabeth Plumley is a long-term Akaa leader and on the Board of Directors. Read more about her and our other team members here.
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