I thought this would be an inspirational, fluffy read, but boy was I wrong.

Though, it was fluffy in a sense because the author's idealism really jumps off the page. I think you have to be a little naive to think you can "change the world", and her sense of belief is undeniable. Her very strong sense of injustice, her passion, her adamant insistence on kindness, and her commitment to people is admirable but I can see how this could be interpreted as "fluffy". Especially if you're jaded. Here's someone who looks at the world so much more clearly, and YET maintains hope. 

But ategurl is in the arena throwing hands and putting up a hell of a fight -- she's been in the frontline, been in skirmishes, been jailed for her activism, and I honestly believe I just listened to someone very very wise and good. It was great seeing her perspectives on movement-making, policy-shaping, and people-advocating. I didn't think she'd touch on so many social issue areas (global trade, COVID-19, water access, climate justice) but that was fascinating to learn from her experience. She mentioned this in the book that I was shocked to know about also.

What a rouser for change, a call to arms. Her hope has scars and bears so much weight; I'm so blessed to read and come across this book.