Raise Your Voice: Why We Stay Silent and How to Speak Up by Kathy Khang

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I never heard of this author before. The book was another recommendation I got from Instagram, but I’m really glad I read it. It’s both timely and relatable.
There is so much going on in our country and the world, and there are so many voices who are sharing their opinions. It’s easy to get overwhelmed and go silent. But Khang encourages every person in this book to speak up. And it’s not just in the traditional sense of speaking with words, but with our actions, our interpersonal conversations, and even what we wear or how we spend our money.
The writing is very conversational and, at times, sarcastically funny. She includes a few interviews with other women who have spoken up in their communities on both large and small scales. She also includes the story of Esther from the Bible. How this story relates to her personally and motivated her to speak up more often.
The advice is realistic and practical. She is open about times in her own life that she didn’t speak up, and that it’s okay to have those moments, completely understandable, but not let those moments define you. Instead to continue searching for your own voice and how you want to use it.
She gives several examples and suggestions on how people might be able to speak within their own communities. I didn’t feel like this book was trying to push an agenda, but she is honest about her point of view and perspective.
My favorite part was the social media do’s and don’ts. It’s good, basic advice for anyone who wants to engage on Twitter, Facebook, or other platforms. And I wish everyone would go by those guidelines. I think it would help us all grow as humans.
Overall, the book is great. One that I would recommend to anyone feeling overwhelmed and unheard. Great challenge and wonderful read!