For those of you who are intellectually curious, fascinated by the world, and ready to explore new perspectives, opinions, philosophies, and facts, we present “1000 Books”, a summer reading program and gift exchange. Between now and the election we want to inspire interactive learning through a giving campaign of written words from powerful minds. This is open to anyone; all we ask is that you consider sending us a short write-up of your reflections or ideas on the book we give you. It can be a simple book review, or why you would recommend this book to a friend, or it can be a list of your favorite highlights, or anything. We want to promote learning and critical thinking, and we’d love to hear your thoughts on these three diverse books.

All three books delve deep into the human experience, with various lenses, perspectives, and focus:

Perhaps the most general and sweeping option is “Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind” by Yuval Noah Harari. This book looks back into human origins & development, human instinct & behavior, and provides deep insight into what it means to be a member of the human race, with themes of diversity, common ground, unity, and self-reflection. Learn about various stages of our evolution, how and why we changed, and how concepts like religion, money, and society evolved over time. Both critical and inspiring, this book is a captivating journey through the past, present, and future of the human experience.

The second option, “A People’s History of the United States” by Howard Zinn, is much more specific, much sharper, and even disturbing. It is essential reading for any citizen of the United States: with shocking, unapologetic, fact-based details about the crimes against humanity which built the foundation for the country we live in today. Zinn shares stories, stats, and facts which are under-reported or covered up, and the painful, inconvenient truth which they didn’t teach you in school. While this book will devastate you it will hopefully also inspire you to feel more empathy, take more responsibility, and learn how to participate in social change.

The third option, “How To Be An Antiracist” by Ibram X. Kendi, is a crucial perspective for this current moment. Kendi explains how pervasive racism is to our culture, with insights that will either open your eyes, or better equip you to participate in opposing racism. One of the core teachings is that our society is so irrevocably racist in its foundation, that it requires constant active opposition: not just simply saying “I am not racist” but actually learning how to become actively antiracist. This book is especially important to read if you are privileged or white, because you can learn how to stop being unwittingly racist or how to stop unintentionally contributing to a racist system. You’ll also learn new perspectives, or affirm your convictions, and learn how to better contribute to the cultural shift, not only within yourself, but with your friends, family, and our overall society.

To participate, please fill out the short form below – specify which book you are most curious about and we will enter your submission into a raffle for Friday July 3rd when we will select 1,000 people to receive a free digital copy of the book of their choice. Thank you!

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