Staff Picks
Books that inspired the Akilah Institute team.
Half the Sky
by Nicholas Kristof and Sheryl WuDunn.
“The book is a collection of stories of women all around the world who are working to improve the planet, in any way they can. Not only was the book a plea for the continued empowerment, emancipation of women and a testament to the work women do to improve their communities and nations, but it was also a look at how development happens on the micro level. There were no tales of UN programs or USAID, just women working from the grassroots level to identify a problem in their communities and fix it.” -Connor Martini (Development & Operations Manager)
Why We Cant Wait
by Martin Luther King Jr.
Dr Martin Luther King Jr. (Public Domain)
“In this book Dr. King gives an exploration of the events and forces behind the civil rights movement. The account gives a perspective on how it takes guts to challenge the status-quo. The events leading to 1963 (Birmingham Campaign) illustrate how we ought to challenge our comfort and never sit back when outright injustice surrounds us even when we face both economic and social injustice. It should challenge all of us because how often do we think of taking action but find ourselves not in action.” -Mike Mulindwa Ssempa (Math Instructor)
A Long Way Gone: Memoirs of a Boy Soldier
by Ishmael Beah
“This is a true story about a young boy’s heartbreaking experience as a soldier in Sierra Leone in the 1990s. Ishmael Beah invites the reader into his childhood by recalling the events of a civil war that led to the death of his family and his unfortunate situation to either kill or be killed as a thirteen year old boy in the military. This book will break your heart, mend it, and then make it swell with affectionate joy. Ishmael’s life is both horrific and inspiring thus revealing both the ugliness and the beauty of the human spirit. Lose yourself in this gripping novel and come out a more aware and compassionate individual.” -Breanna Ribeiro (Fulbright Fellow & Teaching Assistant)
Rising Strong
by Dr. Brené Brown.
“A few years ago, I saw Brené Brown give a TED Talk on vulnerability, and have since read many of her books. Rising Strong focuses on how bravery can sometimes lead to failure — and provides a guide on how we can get through those disappointments and learn to own our struggle and failings, rather than be ashamed of it. Brené Brown describes herself as a “researcher-storyteller”, so the writing is always both relatable and informative.” -Whitney Childs (Senior Development Associate)
My Bridges of Hope: Searching for Life & Love After Auschwitz
by Livia Bitton-Jackson
“I loved this book because it tells the story of how the author survived the genocide and how she found the strength in her heart to live afterwards. If you are looking for an inspiring novel, this book will remind you to count your blessings because many people have endured terrible suffering and yet still choose to live a hopeful and joyful life.” -Ernestine Mukangeze (Librarian)
No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency Series
by Alexander McCall Smith
Scottish Author, Alexander McCall Smith is best known for the No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency series which a bestseller worldwide. Meet Mma Ramotswe as she solves mysteries with her team at the detective agency. Mma Ramotswe sets up shop in Botswana specializing in missing persons, rebellious children, and con-artist.
“The stories takes place in Botswana. African countries have more than a million similarities: bumpy roads, bushes, dirty cities, people who do the work they are not qualified for, and many others. When I read it, I could easily relate it to my country.” -Christian Muhawenimana (Teaching Fellow)
Teach Like a Champion 2.0
by Doug Lemov.
Teach Like a Champion 2.0 has 62 techniques to make you a champion in the classroom with tips and practical examples. “This teacher manual should be read by every instructor who wishes to get to the perfection that many think is impossible. It offers many user-friendly techniques of handling class issues.” -Paulin Ndahayo (English & Leadership Instructor)
My Life On the Road
by Gloria Steinem
“I’m currently reading Gloria Steinem’s memoir as part of the Our Shared Shelf book club, and I cannot recommend it enough. I have been so moved by Gloria’s experiences, thoughtful perspectives, and explosive truths. She encourages her reader to embrace travel and the fight for equality and human rights, a powerful combination.” -Maria Miracle (Communications Associate)