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Our Better Angels: Seven Simple Virtues That Will Change Your Life and the World
For readers of Make Your Bed, a book about real-life virtues in action to inspire readers--from Habitat for Humanity, one of the world’s most admired organizations.
In this first-ever book for adults from Habitat for Humanity, CEO Jonathan Reckford shares moving and inspiring stories of ordinary people whose lives have been changed by working together to help one another. And he shows what we can all learn from these everyday heroes.
Having witnessed people beat back the storms of life, Reckford came to see how we can all find our better selves by tapping into seven old-fashioned virtues—kindness, generosity, community, empowerment, respect, joy, and service. And he came to see how the strength gained from these virtues can help each of us build our best selves in ways that impact all areas of our lives—from our careers to our families, from how we behave in our communities to how we see the world.
With a separate chapter devoted to each of these seven virtues, Reckford introduces us to remarkable people Habitat has served, like Jed, whose family received a Habitat home and who could barely wait to donate it back Habitat to help others in need. And we also meet volunteers like Vic, a veteran who was inspired to return to Vietnam to help build housing there. Each vivid story in this book carries its own lesson and epiphany – to help readers find their own better angels.
The book begins with an inspirational foreword by Jimmy Carter.
Since 1976, Habitat for Humanity has helped more than five million people in over seventy countries. More than two million people volunteer every year with Habitat.
In this first-ever book for adults from Habitat for Humanity, CEO Jonathan Reckford shares moving and inspiring stories of ordinary people whose lives have been changed by working together to help one another. And he shows what we can all learn from these everyday heroes.
Having witnessed people beat back the storms of life, Reckford came to see how we can all find our better selves by tapping into seven old-fashioned virtues—kindness, generosity, community, empowerment, respect, joy, and service. And he came to see how the strength gained from these virtues can help each of us build our best selves in ways that impact all areas of our lives—from our careers to our families, from how we behave in our communities to how we see the world.
With a separate chapter devoted to each of these seven virtues, Reckford introduces us to remarkable people Habitat has served, like Jed, whose family received a Habitat home and who could barely wait to donate it back Habitat to help others in need. And we also meet volunteers like Vic, a veteran who was inspired to return to Vietnam to help build housing there. Each vivid story in this book carries its own lesson and epiphany – to help readers find their own better angels.
The book begins with an inspirational foreword by Jimmy Carter.
Since 1976, Habitat for Humanity has helped more than five million people in over seventy countries. More than two million people volunteer every year with Habitat.
240 pages, Hardcover
Published October 8, 2019
52 people are currently reading
1973 people want to read
About the author
Jonathan Reckford
2 books21 followersJonathan T.M. Reckford began his journey as chief executive officer of Habitat for Humanity International in 2005. Drawing upon his decades of experience ranging from Wall Street to a local church, Jonathan has led the global nonprofit’s tremendous growth. Through his management, Habitat has grown from serving 125,000 individuals a year to helping more than 7 million people last year alone build strength, stability and independence through shelter.
Jonathan is deeply influenced by his parents who were active in the civil rights movement, and by his grandmother, U.S. Congresswoman Millicent Fenwick, widely known for her commitment to justice. Jonathan seeks to follow in their footsteps by leading Habitat’s efforts to draw nearer to a world where everyone has a decent place to live.
His path to Habitat was neither immediate nor direct — with stops at Goldman, Sachs & Co., the 1988 Olympic Games in Seoul, South Korea, Marriott, The Walt Disney Co., Musicland, Best Buy, and Christ Presbyterian Church in Edina, Minnesota. Every position prepared him to lead Habitat with a passion for the mission, tireless commitment to the work and bold vision for the future.
He is the author of Our Better Angels: Seven Simple Virtues That Will Change Your Life and the World, which provides practical inspiration to bridge the divisiveness of the day. He is a noted speaker and sought-after contributor to home affordability conversations throughout the U.S. and around the world.
Jonathan serves on the boards of the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta, is the chair of Leadership 18 and is a member of the Freddie Mac Housing Advisory Council. He is also a member of the Council on Foreign Relations and the Urban Steering Committee for the World Economic Forum.
Jonathan holds an MBA from Stanford and a BA in political science from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he was a Morehead Scholar. In 1986, he was awarded a Henry Luce Fellowship.
He and his wife, Ashley, have three children and live in Atlanta.
Follow Jonathan on social media — @JReckford on Twitter and Instagram.
Jonathan is deeply influenced by his parents who were active in the civil rights movement, and by his grandmother, U.S. Congresswoman Millicent Fenwick, widely known for her commitment to justice. Jonathan seeks to follow in their footsteps by leading Habitat’s efforts to draw nearer to a world where everyone has a decent place to live.
His path to Habitat was neither immediate nor direct — with stops at Goldman, Sachs & Co., the 1988 Olympic Games in Seoul, South Korea, Marriott, The Walt Disney Co., Musicland, Best Buy, and Christ Presbyterian Church in Edina, Minnesota. Every position prepared him to lead Habitat with a passion for the mission, tireless commitment to the work and bold vision for the future.
He is the author of Our Better Angels: Seven Simple Virtues That Will Change Your Life and the World, which provides practical inspiration to bridge the divisiveness of the day. He is a noted speaker and sought-after contributor to home affordability conversations throughout the U.S. and around the world.
Jonathan serves on the boards of the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta, is the chair of Leadership 18 and is a member of the Freddie Mac Housing Advisory Council. He is also a member of the Council on Foreign Relations and the Urban Steering Committee for the World Economic Forum.
Jonathan holds an MBA from Stanford and a BA in political science from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he was a Morehead Scholar. In 1986, he was awarded a Henry Luce Fellowship.
He and his wife, Ashley, have three children and live in Atlanta.
Follow Jonathan on social media — @JReckford on Twitter and Instagram.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
July 7, 2019
This book is by the CEO of Habitat for Humanity and includes a foreward by former President Jimmy Carter who is actively engaged in the work of Habitat. The seven simple virtues covered in the book (each with its own chapter) are kindness, community, empowerment, joy, respect, generosity and service. The author uses stories from various clients of Habitat to expound on each of the virtues. It is a quick read.
This is the type of book that will not be everyone's cup of tea, but I found it enjoyable and the stories interesting.
I received a free Kindle copy of this book courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher with the understanding that I would post a review on Net Galley, Goodreads, Amazon and my fiction book review blog. I also posted it to my Facebook page
This is the type of book that will not be everyone's cup of tea, but I found it enjoyable and the stories interesting.
I received a free Kindle copy of this book courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher with the understanding that I would post a review on Net Galley, Goodreads, Amazon and my fiction book review blog. I also posted it to my Facebook page
January 11, 2020
Linda's Book Obsession Reviews "Seven Simple Virtues That Will Change Your Life and the World Our Better Angels" by Jonathan Reckford, and forward by Jimmy Carter
Jonathan Reckford is the CEO of Habitat for Humanity, and also the author of "Seven Simple Virtues that Will Change Your Life and the World" Jimmy Carter gives an amazing foreward in this book. The Genre for this Book is Non-Fiction. The 7 simple virtues are "Kindness, Community, Empowerment, Joy, Respect, Generosity and Services." The author writes stories or essays of people who have been helped and in turn help others.
I appreciate that Fred Rogers is brought up, and the fact that his show and song reflected "Won't You Be My Neighbor". It is stressed that in Habitat for Humanity, a neighborhood is important, and taking care of each other reflects all of the 7 virtues. It is amazing to see how people that had nothing, work themselves up, help others and themselves. The children of some of these people find themselves seeking educational opportunities that help others.
It is amazing to see that in one story, a grandmother and her grandchildren moved into their new home. Strangers bring a dining room table, and other neighbors bring food, as it is Christmas Eve. There are other stories that are also memorable and heartwarming.
I would recommend this inspiring book to anyone that looks to read about Kindness and other positive virtues.
Jonathan Reckford is the CEO of Habitat for Humanity, and also the author of "Seven Simple Virtues that Will Change Your Life and the World" Jimmy Carter gives an amazing foreward in this book. The Genre for this Book is Non-Fiction. The 7 simple virtues are "Kindness, Community, Empowerment, Joy, Respect, Generosity and Services." The author writes stories or essays of people who have been helped and in turn help others.
I appreciate that Fred Rogers is brought up, and the fact that his show and song reflected "Won't You Be My Neighbor". It is stressed that in Habitat for Humanity, a neighborhood is important, and taking care of each other reflects all of the 7 virtues. It is amazing to see how people that had nothing, work themselves up, help others and themselves. The children of some of these people find themselves seeking educational opportunities that help others.
It is amazing to see that in one story, a grandmother and her grandchildren moved into their new home. Strangers bring a dining room table, and other neighbors bring food, as it is Christmas Eve. There are other stories that are also memorable and heartwarming.
I would recommend this inspiring book to anyone that looks to read about Kindness and other positive virtues.
November 11, 2019
A very heartwarming book written by the CEO of Habitat for Humanity.
Includes many encouraging and inspiring stories of people who came from nothing but happily worked together with others to better themselves through hard work building and repairing homes.
"Having witnessed people beat back the storms of life, Reckford came to see how we can all find our better selves by tapping into seven old-fashioned virtues—kindness, generosity, community, empowerment, respect, joy, and service.With a separate chapter devoted to each of these seven virtues, Reckford introduces us to remarkable people Habitat has served"
You will feel encouraged in life as you read this.
Published October 8th 2019 by St. Martin's Essentials.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.
Includes many encouraging and inspiring stories of people who came from nothing but happily worked together with others to better themselves through hard work building and repairing homes.
"Having witnessed people beat back the storms of life, Reckford came to see how we can all find our better selves by tapping into seven old-fashioned virtues—kindness, generosity, community, empowerment, respect, joy, and service.With a separate chapter devoted to each of these seven virtues, Reckford introduces us to remarkable people Habitat has served"
You will feel encouraged in life as you read this.
Published October 8th 2019 by St. Martin's Essentials.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.
January 2, 2020
What an inspiring and uplifting book. The forward by the hardworking and generous President Jimmy Carter sets the tone for this eye opening book about the gifts of giving back through Habitat for Humanity. I read stories of true human heart and kindness, and it instilled the value of giving back to communities. What an amazing organization, and heartwarming book.
October 19, 2020
Jonathon Reckford is the the CEO of Habitat for Humanity. Habitat for Humanity is a nonprofit organization that “helps people in your community and around the world build or improve a place they can call home.” Habitat for Humanity was found in 1976 in Americus, Ga and I guarantee that today there is a Habitat organization close to your home.
When we think of Habitat, we envision people getting together to build a house. Author Reckford also sees this, but he sees more. He sees the virtues that we gain, those better angels of our nature, by sharing together: kindness, generosity, community, empowerment, respect, joy and service. This book brings these virtues to life by sharing stories of people, whether the owners of a Habitat house, or a volunteer house builder who have changed and grown through Habitat.
These are feel-good, Chicken Soup for the Soul stories. As we “visit” building sites in the US and around the world, we learn that there is power in committed loving and caring. It’s inspiring to learn that an ordinary person with a tool-belt, or a mother who dreams of a better life her family can change the world. My favorite story was about salsa, and Eric, from Immokalee, Florida. The tomato farms of Immokalee produce most of the wintertime tomatoes for America. It’s a poor area. Eric’s family had qualified for a Habitat home. He and his high school classmates like him now had hope and they wanted to do more, something that would honor and help their community. So they came up with the idea of making and selling salsa! You will enjoy reading how this all unfolded and how it led to more dreams being realized.
This book is enjoyable and uplifting and would be a good gift. And who knows? Maybe you’ll want to pick up a hammer and start volunteering for Habitat for Humanity. Thanks to Net Galley and St. Martin’s Press Essentials for a digital review copy. This is my honest review.
When we think of Habitat, we envision people getting together to build a house. Author Reckford also sees this, but he sees more. He sees the virtues that we gain, those better angels of our nature, by sharing together: kindness, generosity, community, empowerment, respect, joy and service. This book brings these virtues to life by sharing stories of people, whether the owners of a Habitat house, or a volunteer house builder who have changed and grown through Habitat.
These are feel-good, Chicken Soup for the Soul stories. As we “visit” building sites in the US and around the world, we learn that there is power in committed loving and caring. It’s inspiring to learn that an ordinary person with a tool-belt, or a mother who dreams of a better life her family can change the world. My favorite story was about salsa, and Eric, from Immokalee, Florida. The tomato farms of Immokalee produce most of the wintertime tomatoes for America. It’s a poor area. Eric’s family had qualified for a Habitat home. He and his high school classmates like him now had hope and they wanted to do more, something that would honor and help their community. So they came up with the idea of making and selling salsa! You will enjoy reading how this all unfolded and how it led to more dreams being realized.
This book is enjoyable and uplifting and would be a good gift. And who knows? Maybe you’ll want to pick up a hammer and start volunteering for Habitat for Humanity. Thanks to Net Galley and St. Martin’s Press Essentials for a digital review copy. This is my honest review.
August 12, 2019
The most positive and inspiring piece of propaganda I’ve ever read, Our Better Angels is written by the CEO of Habitat for Humanity, and promises to tell of ‘Seven simple virtues that will change your life and the world’. While I’m sure it was good intentioned, and the stories were impactful and moving, I’m not sure the book achieved that.
Instead, it tells multiple engaging stories of Habitat volunteers and homeowners alike, categorizing them by virtue seven simple virtues in a chapter for each virtue. I wish that more had been spelled out for what these virtues mean outside of Habitat, but instead, it aims only to provide these virtues as a means to tell the stories of Habitat for Humanity. That’s not necessarily a bad thing- but I don’t feel like it’s what the books selling itself to be, and I wish marketing had been more specific on what the book entails. This is no self help book— though it is a celebration of the people involved with Habitat for Humanity.
The stories are written in an easily accessible way, and are all moving in their own right. It’s an inspiring read for sure, and had me ready to pick up a hammer, but at the end of the day, it’s still just an organizations positively fueled propaganda.
I received this book as an Advanced Reader Copy through goodreads giveaways. My opinions are my own.
Instead, it tells multiple engaging stories of Habitat volunteers and homeowners alike, categorizing them by virtue seven simple virtues in a chapter for each virtue. I wish that more had been spelled out for what these virtues mean outside of Habitat, but instead, it aims only to provide these virtues as a means to tell the stories of Habitat for Humanity. That’s not necessarily a bad thing- but I don’t feel like it’s what the books selling itself to be, and I wish marketing had been more specific on what the book entails. This is no self help book— though it is a celebration of the people involved with Habitat for Humanity.
The stories are written in an easily accessible way, and are all moving in their own right. It’s an inspiring read for sure, and had me ready to pick up a hammer, but at the end of the day, it’s still just an organizations positively fueled propaganda.
I received this book as an Advanced Reader Copy through goodreads giveaways. My opinions are my own.
September 20, 2019
***NOVEL THOUGHTS***
++++thanks to Goodreads and St Martins Essentials for this ARC in exchange for an honest review++++
Ordinary people can accomplish extraordinary things. Pres. Jimmy Carter from the Forward
Clearly inspirational, Our Better Angels is more than an advertisement for Habitat for Humanity. It is a deeply moving experience of how the recipients of the homes, the volunteers, the families, and the communities of Habitat are affected and their long lasting impacts.
The author Jonathan Rickford, CEO of Habitat for Humanity has used his experiences and what he has witnessed personally and how the people who have been beneficiaries of the experience of building or receiving a home have been transformed. He divides the book into 7 virtues like Kindness, Empowerment, Joy, Generosity and Respect and offers stories which express these actions and these stories are not just based in the USA but stem from his experiences globally as Habitat is worldwide.
In some ways, the homes that are built become a positive beginning for the new owners and their families. Several of the stories talked about the families who came out of deeply troubled, crime and drug infested neighborhoods, become successful in school and in careers, almost as if the house empowered them. Children who might not have been able to graduate from school at all, have gone on to not only graduate high school, but also to go on to college, graduate school and great successes in careers and life. The experiences that they shared in the process of building their house, meeting the volunteers and personnel associated with Habitat showed them that "they CAN" accomplish good things for themselves. These men and women who shared the "sweat equity" were role models that as Randall Wallace stated in the book, "Habitat....is a perpetual motion miracle; everyone who receives, gives and everyone who gives, receives." Nothing could be truer.
The wonder of the process of these builds around the world is that it brings people together who probably would never have met each other at all. In one story set in Durham NC, Jews, Muslims and Christians all worked side by side to build a home and in another story, 120 young adults, Catholic, Protestant and those of no faith from Ireland, come together to build homes in Romania. The neighborhoods these young people come from hold terrible grudges for anyone not from their religious group. But to work with Habitat, all are united as they wear a colorful green Habitat t-shirt. "Think of Northern Ireland as blue. Think of Romania as yellow. When we come from blue and we take on the experience we've had here, we mix in a little of the yellow with the blue and we all become green. But when we go back home, back to the blue, how green you stay is up to you." (pg. 127) The life lessons Habitat fosters through their organization is invaluable and go deep into assumptions they have lived with their whole lives. It's not just a house that is built, it is a also building character and acceptance and most of all, respect.
This is a joyful message and may encourage us all to step out and get involved, become less selfish and do something good for someone else.
++++thanks to Goodreads and St Martins Essentials for this ARC in exchange for an honest review++++
Ordinary people can accomplish extraordinary things. Pres. Jimmy Carter from the Forward
Clearly inspirational, Our Better Angels is more than an advertisement for Habitat for Humanity. It is a deeply moving experience of how the recipients of the homes, the volunteers, the families, and the communities of Habitat are affected and their long lasting impacts.
The author Jonathan Rickford, CEO of Habitat for Humanity has used his experiences and what he has witnessed personally and how the people who have been beneficiaries of the experience of building or receiving a home have been transformed. He divides the book into 7 virtues like Kindness, Empowerment, Joy, Generosity and Respect and offers stories which express these actions and these stories are not just based in the USA but stem from his experiences globally as Habitat is worldwide.
In some ways, the homes that are built become a positive beginning for the new owners and their families. Several of the stories talked about the families who came out of deeply troubled, crime and drug infested neighborhoods, become successful in school and in careers, almost as if the house empowered them. Children who might not have been able to graduate from school at all, have gone on to not only graduate high school, but also to go on to college, graduate school and great successes in careers and life. The experiences that they shared in the process of building their house, meeting the volunteers and personnel associated with Habitat showed them that "they CAN" accomplish good things for themselves. These men and women who shared the "sweat equity" were role models that as Randall Wallace stated in the book, "Habitat....is a perpetual motion miracle; everyone who receives, gives and everyone who gives, receives." Nothing could be truer.
The wonder of the process of these builds around the world is that it brings people together who probably would never have met each other at all. In one story set in Durham NC, Jews, Muslims and Christians all worked side by side to build a home and in another story, 120 young adults, Catholic, Protestant and those of no faith from Ireland, come together to build homes in Romania. The neighborhoods these young people come from hold terrible grudges for anyone not from their religious group. But to work with Habitat, all are united as they wear a colorful green Habitat t-shirt. "Think of Northern Ireland as blue. Think of Romania as yellow. When we come from blue and we take on the experience we've had here, we mix in a little of the yellow with the blue and we all become green. But when we go back home, back to the blue, how green you stay is up to you." (pg. 127) The life lessons Habitat fosters through their organization is invaluable and go deep into assumptions they have lived with their whole lives. It's not just a house that is built, it is a also building character and acceptance and most of all, respect.
This is a joyful message and may encourage us all to step out and get involved, become less selfish and do something good for someone else.
September 16, 2019
With a moving forward by President Jimmy Carter, this is the story of how Habitat for Humanity began. Telling inspiring stories of the many people impacted by the program who then go on to live the seven virtues which Reckford puts forward, one at a time.
Beginning with the easiest virtue, kindness. Sometimes we don't see the 'reward' of a kind act. Because the reward is a kind act. Kindness can be a chain reaction that leads to Community, Empowerment, Joy, Respect, Generosity, and Service. It's rather inspiring to read the stories of people whose lives were touched by a kind act, which empowered them to act and pass it forward and succeed.
President Carter has set the bar for humanitarian works. In his 90's he is still building, spreading kindness and being of service to people here and abroad. Giving people hope and setting an example.
He has always been a special man. My father campaigned for him and he was the first President I voted for. Fellow Georgian. His family has always been dedicated to service. I really loved Reckford's own story and the people he interacted with. What an inspiration they all were. My husband and I have worked on a few homes for Habitat and it was the most rewarding thing we have ever done.
I hope with this book everyone will find common ground and agree on what path we need to be following. Now I'm grabbing a hammer and helping my neighbor repair her fence. What are you going to do?
NetGalley/ October 8th, 2019 by St. Martin's Essentials
Beginning with the easiest virtue, kindness. Sometimes we don't see the 'reward' of a kind act. Because the reward is a kind act. Kindness can be a chain reaction that leads to Community, Empowerment, Joy, Respect, Generosity, and Service. It's rather inspiring to read the stories of people whose lives were touched by a kind act, which empowered them to act and pass it forward and succeed.
President Carter has set the bar for humanitarian works. In his 90's he is still building, spreading kindness and being of service to people here and abroad. Giving people hope and setting an example.
He has always been a special man. My father campaigned for him and he was the first President I voted for. Fellow Georgian. His family has always been dedicated to service. I really loved Reckford's own story and the people he interacted with. What an inspiration they all were. My husband and I have worked on a few homes for Habitat and it was the most rewarding thing we have ever done.
I hope with this book everyone will find common ground and agree on what path we need to be following. Now I'm grabbing a hammer and helping my neighbor repair her fence. What are you going to do?
NetGalley/ October 8th, 2019 by St. Martin's Essentials
December 6, 2019
The author of this book is the CEO of Habitat for Humanity. He explores, through powerful stories, seven virtues. These are kindness, community, empowerment, joy, respect, generosity and service. Each of these stories are wonderfully inspiring and encouraging. This really shows how strong everyone is when they come together to help each other.
I am always amazed how great some people truly are. My job makes this difficult to see in the general public. So, this book really moved my soul. As I was reading these truly inspirational tales, I felt refreshed and uplifted! Sometimes you just need something to restore your heart! This one hit the spot!
I am always amazed how great some people truly are. My job makes this difficult to see in the general public. So, this book really moved my soul. As I was reading these truly inspirational tales, I felt refreshed and uplifted! Sometimes you just need something to restore your heart! This one hit the spot!
September 11, 2019
Wonderful collage of stories of people who have been involved with and those who have benefited from the Habitat for Humanity program. Uplifting stories of how the program changed lives. Many stories are focused on the international program and places most of us have never heard of.
Sometimes it was difficult to follow with all the foreign names, but you will get the general idea.
This would be a great gift book for anyone who is looking to help others or feel like they are drowning in their own issues and can see how helping others changed many of the people represented. A couple Kleenex to go with it probably would be good also! Enjoyable read.
I received this book as a complimentary copy for an unbiased review. The opinions expressed are my own. Thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for the advanced copy.
Sometimes it was difficult to follow with all the foreign names, but you will get the general idea.
This would be a great gift book for anyone who is looking to help others or feel like they are drowning in their own issues and can see how helping others changed many of the people represented. A couple Kleenex to go with it probably would be good also! Enjoyable read.
I received this book as a complimentary copy for an unbiased review. The opinions expressed are my own. Thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for the advanced copy.
September 4, 2019
I was going to glance at this book the day I got it, and then read it later. But the Foreword sucked me in and I read it in a couple of hours from cover to cover. Although the book uses example from Habitat for Humanity - that's not what the book is about. It is about taking a look at yourself to see what type of person you are and can be. It is about looking inwardly to see what you might be missing. I found it to be a very inspiring book, because I already see this type of kindness, joy, empowerment, in friends around me - and I have been admiring it. This isn't about working with Habitat for Humanity, but gives you examples from there to show you examples of how you can find what is right for you. A truly, wonderful book. Pay particular attention to the beginning of every chapter and read it carefully - it will help you to truly see what the author is talking about and goes on to show you in the example stories. The ends of the chapters also often revisit some of the main points of the chapter that were shown in the Habitat for Humanity stores. I already know I will be revisiting several portions of this book again. Loved it!
September 3, 2019
As we all struggle with the daily news, most of us are seeking a ray of hope – something we can do to help bring something positive back into the picture. Jonathan Reckford is CEO of Habitat for Humanity and is on the front lines of positive initiatives that can help us meet our heart’s desire to help. In Our Better Angels, he outlines seven basic ideas that will lead us out of the darkness – Kindness, Community, Empowerment, Joy, Respect, Generosity, Service. As he describes each of these “virtues,” he includes the stories of ordinary people who have found the grace to refocus their lives in a positive way. With a forward by Jimmy Carter, you can expect to read this one for ideas, for encouragement and, yes, for joy!
September 4, 2019
i LOVE LOVE this book. I won this book in a goodreads giveaway and i could not stop reading it when I started it. The author is the CEO of Habitat for Humanity. He writes his seven simple virtues with the most amazing and touching stories that he has encountered in his life. I love the stories they are all touching and give you an insight to how these simple virtues that we almost take for granted everyday can be such a positive impact on anyones life. This book will want you to be better, this book will want you to do better. I loved this book, i loved the message! This book is inspiring, and now Im looking for different ways i can help! Pick up this book, and you will definitely not regret it in the least!
August 28, 2019
I won this from Goodreads. I loved this book, it is very positive. The author is the CEO of Habitat for Humanity a cause Jimmy Carter participates in. The book talks about ordinary people who can accomplish great things. You do not need to be rich, or special to do good in the World. Many times in my life I have needed help and God provided some one for me. Other times I have helped people with different things. If we have a common purpose we can get things done and create goodwill. The book was written for the purpose of getting us to see the opportunities that we have to help. There are seven principles that can help us along. Kindness, generosity, community, empowerment, respect, joy, and service. The world is becoming so divided. We need to get out of ourselves and put our own talents to work. Kindness to someone can have a long lasting effect. Community is making where we live better. Empowerment can help change the new generation. Joy is very important to embrace. Respect helps us to get along better with others. Generosity is not just money but also the spirit that we bring to life. Service is where you need all these values.
August 20, 2019
This book is heart felt, inspirational and thought provoking.
It shows there is a way to create a better world.
It shows there is a way to create a better world.
July 22, 2019
Jonathon Reckford is the the CEO of Habitat for Humanity. Habitat for Humanity is a nonprofit organization that “helps people in your community and around the world build or improve a place they can call home.” Habitat for Humanity was found in 1976 in Americus, Ga and I guarantee that today there is a Habitat organization close to your home.
When we think of Habitat, we envision people getting together to build a house. Author Reckford also sees this, but he sees more. He sees the virtues that we gain, those better angels of our nature, by sharing together: kindness, generosity, community, empowerment, respect, joy and service. This book brings these virtues to life by sharing stories of people, whether the owners of a Habitat house, or a volunteer house builder who have changed and grown through Habitat.
These are feel-good, Chicken Soup for the Soul stories. As we “visit” building sites in the US and around the world, we learn that there is power in committed loving and caring. It’s inspiring to learn that an ordinary person with a tool-belt, or a mother who dreams of a better life her family can change the world. My favorite story was about salsa, and Eric, from Immokalee, Florida. The tomato farms of Immokalee produce most of the wintertime tomatoes for America. It’s a poor area. Eric’s family had qualified for a Habitat home. He and his high school classmates like him now had hope and they wanted to do more, something that would honor and help their community. So they came up with the idea of making and selling salsa! You will enjoy reading how this all unfolded and how it led to more dreams being realized.
This book is enjoyable and uplifting and would be a good gift. And who knows? Maybe you’ll want to pick up a hammer and start volunteering for Habitat for Humanity. Thanks to Net Galley and St. Martin’s Press Essentials for a digital review copy. This is my honest review.
When we think of Habitat, we envision people getting together to build a house. Author Reckford also sees this, but he sees more. He sees the virtues that we gain, those better angels of our nature, by sharing together: kindness, generosity, community, empowerment, respect, joy and service. This book brings these virtues to life by sharing stories of people, whether the owners of a Habitat house, or a volunteer house builder who have changed and grown through Habitat.
These are feel-good, Chicken Soup for the Soul stories. As we “visit” building sites in the US and around the world, we learn that there is power in committed loving and caring. It’s inspiring to learn that an ordinary person with a tool-belt, or a mother who dreams of a better life her family can change the world. My favorite story was about salsa, and Eric, from Immokalee, Florida. The tomato farms of Immokalee produce most of the wintertime tomatoes for America. It’s a poor area. Eric’s family had qualified for a Habitat home. He and his high school classmates like him now had hope and they wanted to do more, something that would honor and help their community. So they came up with the idea of making and selling salsa! You will enjoy reading how this all unfolded and how it led to more dreams being realized.
This book is enjoyable and uplifting and would be a good gift. And who knows? Maybe you’ll want to pick up a hammer and start volunteering for Habitat for Humanity. Thanks to Net Galley and St. Martin’s Press Essentials for a digital review copy. This is my honest review.
August 15, 2019
Heartfelt is not a word that describes books that usually appeal me, but this book is heartfelt a good way ___ full of touching, inspiring, real stories. However, it reads a bit too much like an advertisement for Habitat for Humanity --- worthy as this organization is.
August 3, 2019
Excellent book with wonderful stories in the line of "Chicken Soup for the Soul" books. The author gives us about 3 stories per chapter and category of what he calls Seven virtues. Each story he relates from his days of working with Habitat for Humanity and they are from all around the world. The only draw back at times is that it feels like it's an advertisement for Habitat for Humanity instead of putting those virtues into our lives.
October 8, 2019
This book was written by the CEO of Habitat for Humanity. There are aspects of the book that I really liked and disliked. For me, the book was written in simple language that felt a little light to me. It's hard to pinpoint exactly what it was, but that style of writing is a little distracting to me. It feels dumbed down or something.Secondly, which can be a negative or positve depending on the reader, I felt that it concentrated less on the virtues and more on Habitat for Humanity. On a good note, there were many positives too. I really enjoyed hearing more of the history of Habitat for Humanity. I have thought about getting involved before so I appreciated learning more about this ministry. I enjoyed reading the stories of the different individuals, who ranged from homeowners to volunteers, and hearing how these virtues touched their lives. I also liked that it gave info on how to get involved with Habitat if you desire to.
July 30, 2019
I was fortunate enough to win this book in a Goodreads giveaway win. This book is wonderful in so many ways! In our fast-paced, technology-based society, we tend to lose some of the human touch. This book details how much of that gentle touch we've still got left--if one knows where to look.
Each story is unique and fulfilling. I smiled continuously reading Our Better Angels, and several times even closed the book to appreciate what I'd just read. It has encouraged me to step up my volunteer game even more, and now I'm volunteering at the local food bank on all of my days off. This book exemplifies the gift that keeps on giving... Service to our neighbors. What goes around comes around!
Each story is unique and fulfilling. I smiled continuously reading Our Better Angels, and several times even closed the book to appreciate what I'd just read. It has encouraged me to step up my volunteer game even more, and now I'm volunteering at the local food bank on all of my days off. This book exemplifies the gift that keeps on giving... Service to our neighbors. What goes around comes around!
September 14, 2019
In this book, one I was given in a Goodreads giveaway, Reckford speaks to the best in all of us. Virtues like Kindness, Generosity, Service, are there and easy to access, "our better angels" that when exercised can change our lives for the better, and thereby change our world. As stated in the forward, written by former President Jimmy Carter, "Ordinary people can accomplish extraordinary things." Reading this book is agreat place to start if you want to find out how you can enlist the help of your better angels. You will find out how others, each one an ordinary person, did just that, and how you may emulate these virtues will become crystal clear. This book is illuminating; it will help you better your life, changing your life and the lives of those you touch.
July 28, 2019
Do you want to change the world? To become a better person? Are you overwhelmed at the prospect of actually making an impact? This book shows how through small steps, any of us can change lives, not least of which, our own. Like eating an elephant, one bite at a time, we can make things better; we can be the change force we dream of. With a beautiful introduction by President Jimmy Carter, this shows how even individuals with limited means can make all the difference in the world, and gain the world in return.
January 4, 2021
This is a pretty straightforward book. Like other reviewers have noted, this is essentially a long advertisement for Habitat for Humanity, which does some great work. Not necessarily a bad thing, just be aware of what you are getting before you pick it up. Seven virtues such as kindness and respect are discussed, with heartwarming stories from Habitat for Humanity illustrating each virtue. There is also a foreword by Jimmy Carter. The book has a Chicken Soup for the Soul type of feel, only less cheesy and more relevant to real life.
October 5, 2019
This book, written by the organization’s CEO, Jonathan Rickford, details some of the history and works of the Habitat for Humanity program and includes some stories about those who have benefited from the program worldwide. Mr. Rickford uses seven virtues to bring out these stories of those people Habitat for Humanity has helped throughout the years. Some of the stories show the successes the people with the homes have achieved, due, in a large part, to the homes they have received. The areas where the houses are built often are filled with disdain and anger toward these interlopers, but, working closely and carefully throughout, the staff and leaders of the Habitat for Humanity manage to usually bring the groups around them “into the fold” of this beautiful organization. This message of love for fellowman or woman as well as of character, acceptance and respect for each other resonates throughout. This is a good read for anyone who is searching for meaning in their lives or who is interested in helping not only those around the but throughout the world. It may just help people who read it to come together, something we all need in this troubled, divided world. Finally, the book is refreshing after all the murder, mystery, selfishness, and such we all encounter daily. I received this from NetGalley to read and review.
September 25, 2019
Our Better Angels, written by the CEO of Habitat for Humanity, is an uplifting, feel-good read. If you have ever doubted that one person can make a difference in the world, you need to read this book!
Broken into chapters by the seven virtues of kindness, generosity, community, empowerment, respect, joy and service, the book is filled with stories of individuals and families who have benefitted from being part of the Habitat for Humanity experience. The positive ripple effect of helping just one person is in full force in these stories. The difference made in lives, by giving hope and dignity where none had existed, by showing what can be accomplished when one person reaches out, by working together, by giving back, not only impacted the individuals involved, but spread to all those around them when they saw what was possible.
Ripples grow into resounding waves. Everyone can make a difference. Do something!
Favorite quotes from President Jimmy Carter in the Foreword:
"Ordinary people can accomplish extraordinary things."
"Anytime people come together in common purpose, miracles happen."
Many thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for allowing me to read a copy of this book in exchange for an unbiased review.
Broken into chapters by the seven virtues of kindness, generosity, community, empowerment, respect, joy and service, the book is filled with stories of individuals and families who have benefitted from being part of the Habitat for Humanity experience. The positive ripple effect of helping just one person is in full force in these stories. The difference made in lives, by giving hope and dignity where none had existed, by showing what can be accomplished when one person reaches out, by working together, by giving back, not only impacted the individuals involved, but spread to all those around them when they saw what was possible.
Ripples grow into resounding waves. Everyone can make a difference. Do something!
Favorite quotes from President Jimmy Carter in the Foreword:
"Ordinary people can accomplish extraordinary things."
"Anytime people come together in common purpose, miracles happen."
Many thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for allowing me to read a copy of this book in exchange for an unbiased review.
February 5, 2020
Author Jonathan Reckford is the CEO of Habitat for Humanity, an international non-profit that builds homes for people who are in need and do not have the resources to secure one.
In this short book (it can be a one-day read) he attempts to define kindness, community, empowerment, joy, generosity in a world of conflict. The book provides no dictionary definition. Rather, he tells narratives of people helping other people to define each of these core terms of humanity.
Reckford wants to have conversation about how we can improve the world. We get lots of stories about how the world can be changed.
Of course the stories are from the work of Habitat for Humanity. Each chapter provides plenty of examples of six core values: kindness, community, empowerment, joy, respect, and generosity. .
While the stories are engaging the book needs to tell the would-be reader than the book is working only about the work of Habitat. There are multiple ways to do good in a community. Habitat is just one such opportunity.
It would have been good to have a final chapter that put what we learn from the six values. Some of the chapters go on longer than others.
In this short book (it can be a one-day read) he attempts to define kindness, community, empowerment, joy, generosity in a world of conflict. The book provides no dictionary definition. Rather, he tells narratives of people helping other people to define each of these core terms of humanity.
Reckford wants to have conversation about how we can improve the world. We get lots of stories about how the world can be changed.
Of course the stories are from the work of Habitat for Humanity. Each chapter provides plenty of examples of six core values: kindness, community, empowerment, joy, respect, and generosity. .
While the stories are engaging the book needs to tell the would-be reader than the book is working only about the work of Habitat. There are multiple ways to do good in a community. Habitat is just one such opportunity.
It would have been good to have a final chapter that put what we learn from the six values. Some of the chapters go on longer than others.
April 18, 2021
Before reading this book, I thought I had a fairly good idea of what Habitat for Humanity was all about. I mean, they build houses for folks that need them, right? And the new homeowners have to contribute "sweat equity." I get it.
But this book opened my eyes to the fact that Habitat for Humanity does so much more than that. They build communities, restore families, inspire young people, facilitate reconciliations, and create legacies.
This book tells about various families around the world that Habitat has helped, and the volunteers whose lives were changed by the experience.
Before the book was finished, I found myself looking up my local Habitat for Humanity online to see if they had a project I could participate in. (Unfortunately, they didn't!)
If you're looking for a book that highlights the good that's in this world, look no further. I highly recommend spending some time with Our Better Angels. You won't be sorry!
But this book opened my eyes to the fact that Habitat for Humanity does so much more than that. They build communities, restore families, inspire young people, facilitate reconciliations, and create legacies.
This book tells about various families around the world that Habitat has helped, and the volunteers whose lives were changed by the experience.
Before the book was finished, I found myself looking up my local Habitat for Humanity online to see if they had a project I could participate in. (Unfortunately, they didn't!)
If you're looking for a book that highlights the good that's in this world, look no further. I highly recommend spending some time with Our Better Angels. You won't be sorry!
September 17, 2019
I've never reviewed a book like this one before. You will struggle with the beginning of the book. The forward by Jimmy Carter will get you excited for the individual stories. These stories completely make the book! You will laugh, cry, ugly cry and will definitely have you looking for ways to be a better angel to those around you. People from all walks of life can be better towards their fellow humans they encounter throughout the day. Everything from a kind word to mowing a neighbors lawn can be the "ONE THING" that person needs to stop feeling over-whelmed. What I really like about these seven virtues is it doesn't have to be anything dramatic or monetary. Not everyone can volunteer to build a house or donate money for the materials. These are simply about being better towards others
October 6, 2019
Thank you so much for the advance reader copy I received through the Goodreads and St. Martin's Press giveaway.
With so many people causing division among us, Reckford's straightforward narrative of basic human virtues reminds us how to live in unity. And how satisfying that is to the soul.
Each chapter briefly describes a virtue, and then relates true stories that illustrate it. The reader can't help but be encouraged by the love and kindness people show to others.
The book reminds us what it means to be party of the human race, and how small, thoughtful responses to others can make a big difference. It really is a book for everyone.
With so many people causing division among us, Reckford's straightforward narrative of basic human virtues reminds us how to live in unity. And how satisfying that is to the soul.
Each chapter briefly describes a virtue, and then relates true stories that illustrate it. The reader can't help but be encouraged by the love and kindness people show to others.
The book reminds us what it means to be party of the human race, and how small, thoughtful responses to others can make a big difference. It really is a book for everyone.
October 23, 2019
Our Better Angels is a great book if you want to know more about Habit For Humanity and the lives it touches. Reading this book has made me want to explore volunteering for our local chapter. The only downfall of this book was by the title you would think it's a self help book and while it does make you more aware of volunteering and helping others it really is just stories about people who have been touched by Habit For Humanity. I would have liked to see more on the self help side rather than just the tiny snipets at the end of each chapter. Overall not a bad read, but I wouldn't recommend it if your look for more of a self help ideas type book.
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