Read Peace, Not War: 8 Books for Peace Day
In 2001, the United Nations unanimously agreed to call September 21 International Peace Day, the culmination of efforts made by the nonprofit Peace One Day. To celebrate, we suggest that instead of wielding weapons, you wield books (or, if you’d prefer, weapons of the mind). Reading has been shown to improve empathy, which is a great tool to start waging peace. Clichés about the pen being mighty aside, here are our recommendations for books that introduce and analyze the concept of world peace.
Beyond Conflict: 20 Years of Putting Experience to Work for Peace by Timothy Pillips (Brideswell Books)
Herein, we learn how six extraordinary leaders from South Africa, Guatemala, Northern Ireland, Israel, Chile, and Czechoslovakia sat down with their enemies, forged fair-minded agreements, and led their societies to peace.
Guilty Party: The International Community in Afghanistan by Graciana del Castillo (Xlibris)
A history that names human failings and offers illuminating possibilities, this book is essential reading for all who wish to better understand the conflicts in Afghanistan.
Why Do We Fight? by Niki Walker (OwlKids Books)
By providing an understanding of how world conflicts develop and peace agreements emerge, this comprehensive book motivates youth to educate themselves rather than become frightened of the terrors they hear on the news.
The Art of Waging Peace: A Strategic Approach to Improving Our Lives and the World by Paul K. Chappell (Prospecta Press)
This timely book presents a path to personal and global peace bolstered by the author’s experience and great thinkers of history.
Happiness: The Art of Living with Peace, Confidence, and Joy by Douglas A. Smith (White Pine Mountain)
The actionable advice that Smith presents in this part memoir, part guide is bolstered by his clear, vivid writing style.
Mahavira: The Hero of Nonviolence by Manoj Jain, illustrated by Demi (Wisdom Tales)
This rich, colorful treat teaches children and parents the roots of a nonviolent faith that inspired Gandhi and MLK.
To Make and Keep Peace: Among Ourselves and with All Nations by Angelo M. Codevilla (Hoover Institution Press)
Wisdom from history pairs with knowledge of human nature to equip people with the motivation to incite peace.
Aimee Jodoin is deputy editor at Foreword Reviews. You can follow her on Twitter @aimeebeajo.
Aimee Jodoin
