Lead from the Outside: How to Build Your Future and Make Real Change

I'm writing this review before the book has even arrived because I started reading it through the NYPL app. I had put off reading this book for a while because I had apprehensions and bias notions about reading anything written by a politician...The description however, kept calling me to the book so I decided to give it a try through the library first.I wasn't too impressed with the intro, but something told me to keep going...So thankful I did. I had to "return" the book to the library before I was finished reading it, so I only made it up to chapter 5, but from what I read, it spoke to every part of me. All of the questions I've been struggling with as a black woman about self worth in the work place, networking, mentors, student loan repayments...She covered it all. My review can't do the book justice, but I will say, whether I had finished reading the book in the library or not, I knew I needed to purchase it, because this book is highlighter worthy!

This is a short read, page-wise, but it is so thick with great, and extremely relevant content, it's not a fast read. I found that I kept highlighting and highlighting all the insights.Yes, Abrams is a politically ambitious Black woman. The horror! "Minority fears have distinct branches that get tangled up: stereotypes intermingle with authenticity and achievement. Will I get a shot because of who I am? If I fail, do I bring down everyone who looks like me? If I’m too successful, will my people celebrate me or shun me? How do I integrate into the world where I am an outsider, yet not move too far away from the places that make me who I am?"She states the problems, clearly, but also gives the answers. "I confronted the expected stereotypes by knowing what they were and building an alternate narrative about myself."The insights she presents apply to Black women, but also, to women of every color, to men of color, to non-binary and to LGBTQ people. To all those who are outsiders, in some way, whether in politics or other careers."We are, by our natures, often required to manufacture our own breaks, identify new openings even before others know they exist. The best hack is to know this is the case, accept it, and move on, prepared to take full advantage. And then do it all over again."Although she ended up prevented from claiming the Georgia Governorship, the very act of her running for it made a difference. "...one of the aspects of holding power is understanding the long game—that battles add up over time and create space for others to feel emboldened to act."If you are NOT a cisgender, straight, white, middle class+ man, you will get a lot out of this book. You might get a lot out of it even if you are.

Stacey Abrams is one of those remarkable people with a wide array of talents. In this book she shares her story, acknowledges the things that get in her way, and includes questions and workbook activities to help readers focus on their own goals. As a teacher, I have to read a lot of "motivational" books that make me roll my eyes, but this one was different. Not only is Ms. Abrams a great writer, she breaks down her advice in practical and doable tasks and goal setting that doesn't feel gimmicky. I was particularly stunned to read that she considers herself an introvert. As a fellow introvert, I realize I have to stop letting myself off the hook from doing the things that seem scary. I bought a copy for my sister who has a new leadership position, and will be sharing my copy with my mother and others, but I'm going to want it back so I can mark it up and save the pages I need to re-read to light a fire under my goals. Someday I'll be voting for this woman for president.

I am a white American citizen. Voter suppression turns my stomach and the atrocities and injustices that have occurred in our county, the USA, are shameful in our country's history, and at present. Early 2020, I googled "history of Voter suppression in America" and am so very glad I found a reference to this book. I ordered it, read it cover to cover. Twice. It is so tragic that our "democracy" is still not a true democracy. Where is the accountability for this outcome? Abrams research and intelligent discussion of the history of methods used to suppress the vote in our country is very depressing. Yet Abrams is not depressed, or a victim; she is a very positive, brilliant and tireless leader who has dedicated her life to empowering others to recognize and fight against the egregious intimidation and suppression of voters in our country. I cannot thank her enough for taking the time to record these shameful histories. Voter suppression must first be identified, acknowledged, and prevented if we are to be a democracy. I would like now to know more about 1) the penalties for voter suppression and 2) accountability of those who are guilty. I pray for a better America where every voter is engaged, informed, empowered and able to vote. And where leaders AND citizens support those efforts, rather than thwart them.

This was an inspiring read and actionable advise. Importantly, it prioritizes the African American experience in the context of a broader engagement.

This book is really interesting and very well written. I discovered Stacey Abrams because of the gubernatorial elections in Georgia. I was amazed by her non concession speech, and I wanted to know more about the Minority leader. In this book Stacey Abrams shares her experiences, talks about her fights, her goals. Stacey Abrams is a bold politician, a very smart woman, she encourages us to work across the aisle when necessary.

Very good book. The way the author interject her personal life to the context is rather refreshing. Taking the reader through the process as she ran for governor of Georgia opened my eyes to 'how a system works.' Even when the system is designed to keep you out; you have to endure the pains or accept the system as it is or become a change agent to make the system better. Stacey Abrams is a dynamic leader who has shown proof of her commitment to the state of Georgia. Check out her stellar work during the 2020 elections.

Ordered and ret. Thanks

Great book. It talks about the benefits of recognizing your own goals and doing long range planning to get them accomplished! It is a great booster for women or minorities who have been disadvantaged, but really everyone can benefit from reading it.

Just what I needed to read in order to keep going. Straightforward and at the same time kind, hopefull. All should give it a try.

Sometimes with non-fiction I have to read it in short bites because my head tries to digest or I get bored. This book is actually hard to put down, it's interesting, inspiring and easy to read.

The book only arrived yesterday. As a Black woman l have already added the resource to my survival kit.