For the young person who sees injustice and longs to make a difference, this book inspires by showcasing how nonviolent activism has changed the world.
A parent might reach for this book when their child is beginning to notice injustice in the world and feels overwhelmed or powerless. We Are Power serves as an inspiring and practical guide to nonviolent activism, using compelling historical examples like the Montgomery Bus Boycott and the Danish resistance to the Nazis to explain how ordinary people can create monumental change. It explores themes of bravery, resilience, and fairness, making complex historical and social concepts accessible for a 10-14 year old audience. This book is an excellent choice for a young reader who is ready to move from awareness of problems to an understanding of powerful, effective, and peaceful solutions.
Addresses topics of oppression, injustice, and the deaths of people fighting for their cause.
Sensitive Topics
The book deals directly with mature and difficult topics, including systemic racism (Jim Crow), totalitarianism (Nazism), oppression, and state-sanctioned violence against protestors. The approach is historical and secular. It does not shy away from the real dangers faced by activists, including imprisonment and execution (the members of the White Rose). However, the resolution of each story is framed hopefully, focusing on the ultimate success, moral power, and lasting impact of the nonviolent resistance.
Ideal Reader
The ideal reader is a socially conscious 10 to 14-year-old who is starting to grapple with the world's injustices. They might be a history enthusiast, a budding activist, or any child who feels a strong sense of fairness and is asking, "But what can I do about it?"
Parent Prep
Parents should be prepared to discuss the historical violence and hatred depicted. Specifically, the chapter on the White Rose movement details their capture and execution. The realities of Jim Crow America are also starkly presented. Pre-reading these sections can help parents facilitate a sensitive conversation. The book provides enough context to be read cold, but the topics benefit greatly from a follow-up discussion. A parent notices their child expressing frustration or sadness about the news or social issues, saying things like, "That's so unfair," or "I wish I could do something to help." The child seems to be moving from simple awareness to a desire for agency.
Age Experience
A younger reader (10-11) will likely connect most with the heroic narratives and clear examples of courage. An older reader (12-14) will be better equipped to understand the strategic and philosophical underpinnings of nonviolence, draw parallels to current events, and think critically about applying these tactics themselves.
What Makes It Special
Unlike many history books focusing on singular, famous leaders, this book deliberately emphasizes the power of collective action by everyday citizens, including young people. Its clear, almost instructional breakdown of tactics makes activism feel like a practical, achievable skill set, demystifying the process of creating social change.
Read plot summary
This nonfiction book presents the history and tactics of nonviolent activism. Rather than a linear narrative, it is structured thematically around key case studies. Author Todd Hasak-Lowy introduces core concepts like civil disobedience, boycotts, and marches, then illustrates them through detailed accounts of movements such as the Indian Salt March led by Gandhi, the Montgomery Bus Boycott in the American Civil Rights movement, the White Rose student resistance in Nazi Germany, and the broad Danish resistance to Nazi occupation. The book connects these historical events to contemporary youth-led movements, framing activism as a timeless and accessible tool for change.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Discussion Prompts
1
The book discusses different 'weapons' of nonviolent activism, like boycotts and marches. Which of these tactics seemed the most powerful or surprising to you, and why?
2
In the chapter about the White Rose in Nazi Germany, the student activists knew they were risking their lives. What do you think gave them the courage to continue their work?
3
The author connects historical events to modern movements. Can you think of any examples in the news today where people are using the nonviolent strategies described in the book?
4
After reading about how thousands of ordinary Danish citizens worked together to resist the Nazis, what are some 'small' ways you think people can stand up to injustice in their own communities?
