Are you looking for some inspiration to get moving? Whether you’re interested in physical fitness, personal growth, or simply exploring the world through the written word, there’s a book on movement out there that’s perfect for you. In this article, we’ve curated a list of the 20 best books about movement that will inspire and motivate you to get off the couch and start exploring the world around you. From memoirs to self-help guides and everything in between, these movement books are sure to get you up and moving in no time.
Contents
- 1 The New Jim Crow
- 2 Just Mercy
- 3 Evicted
- 4 The Warmth of Other Suns
- 5 Between the World and Me
- 6 The Fire Next Time
- 7 The Color of Law
- 8 Stamped from the Beginning
- 9 White Fragility
- 10 The Souls of Black Folk
- 11 The Autobiography of Malcolm X
- 12 The Underground Railroad
- 13 The Hate U Give
- 14 Freedom Is a Constant Struggle
- 15 So You Want to Talk About Race
- 16 The Bluest Eye
- 17 The Fire This Time
- 18 The Warmth of Other Suns
- 19 The Origins of Totalitarianism
- 20 The Feminine Mystique
- 21 Conclusion
The New Jim Crow
by Michelle Alexander
The New Jim Crow – Book on Movement
The New Jim Crow
The New Jim Crow is a groundbreaking book on movement written by Michelle Alexander. This eye-opening work examines the deeply rooted system of racial oppression and mass incarceration in the United States.
Through meticulous research and compelling arguments, Alexander reveals how the American criminal justice system functions as a modern-day form of racial control. She exposes the discriminatory practices that disproportionately target people of color, particularly African Americans, trapping them in a cycle of poverty, hopelessness, and legal disenfranchisement.
This powerful book about movement explores how the War on Drugs, which began in the 1970s, has been used as a tool to perpetuate racial inequality. Alexander argues that the system of mass incarceration functions as a new form of segregation, similar to the Jim Crow laws of the past, hence the book’s title.
By analyzing the historical context and policies that have led to the current state of affairs, Alexander challenges readers to confront the harsh reality of a deeply entrenched system of racial injustice. She calls for a collective movement to dismantle the New Jim Crow and work towards a more equitable society.
The New Jim Crow is a thought-provoking and influential movement book that has sparked widespread discussion and activism. It compels readers to question their own complicity in perpetuating racial bias and inspires them to become agents of change. Alexander’s work has become essential reading for those seeking to understand and challenge the systemic racism that continues to plague our society.
Just Mercy
by Bryan Stevenson
‘Just Mercy’ is a powerful and gripping book on the movement for justice and equality. Bryan Stevenson takes us on a transformative journey, challenging us to confront the deep-rooted injustices that plague our society. Through his work as a lawyer, Stevenson sheds light on the broken criminal justice system and the countless lives that have been affected by it.
Evicted
by Matthew Desmond
‘Evicted’ is a captivating book that delves into the intricate dance of displacement and mobility in America’s most impoverished communities. With powerfully vivid storytelling and meticulous research, Matthew Desmond’s ‘Evicted’ is not just a book on movement, but an exploration of the heart-wrenching struggles faced by those caught in the relentless cycle of eviction and homelessness.
The Warmth of Other Suns
by Isabel Wilkerson
The Warmth of Other Suns is a captivating book on the epic journey of millions of African Americans who fled the oppressive reality of the Jim Crow South in search of a better life. Isabel Wilkerson masterfully tells the stories of three individuals who represent the movement, the migration, and the quest for freedom.
Between the World and Me
by Ta-Nehisi Coates
Between the World and Me by Ta-Nehisi Coates is a profound manifesto that invites readers into a powerful conversation about the perpetual struggle for freedom. This book on movement is not just about physical movement, but also about the emotional, intellectual, and societal movements that shape our lives.
The Fire Next Time
by James Baldwin
The Fire Next Time by James Baldwin is a powerful and thought-provoking book on the struggle for civil rights. Published in 1963, during the height of the Civil Rights Movement, this book examines the deeply rooted issues of racism and inequality in America.
Baldwin’s writing is both eloquent and raw, as he delves into his own experiences as a Black man growing up in Harlem. He explores the complexities of race relations, religion, and the impact of systemic oppression on individuals and society as a whole.
The Fire Next Time is not just a book about the Civil Rights Movement; it is a movement book in itself. Baldwin’s words ignite a fire within readers, compelling them to confront their own prejudices and question the status quo. His call for justice and equality resonates with readers of all backgrounds, urging them to take action and be agents of change.
This book about movement is a timeless classic that continues to inspire and challenge readers today. Baldwin’s powerful words serve as a reminder that the fight for equality is ongoing, and that we all have a role to play in creating a more just and inclusive society.
The Color of Law
by Richard Rothstein
The Color of Law by Richard Rothstein is not just another book on movement, but a groundbreaking examination of the systematic segregation that has shaped American cities. This captivating movement book uncovers the hidden history behind government policies that perpetuated racial inequality in housing, education, and employment.
Stamped from the Beginning
by Ibram X. Kendi
Stamped from the Beginning by Ibram X. Kendi is not just a book on movement, it is a powerful exploration of the history of racism in America. This thought-provoking work delves into the complex and often uncomfortable origins and manifestations of racism, shedding light on its deep roots in society. Kendi’s meticulous research and engaging storytelling make this book about movement an essential read for anyone seeking to understand the history and impact of racism in America.
White Fragility
by Robin DiAngelo
White Fragility is a thought-provoking book on the dynamics of racism and the importance of addressing it in our society. Written by Robin DiAngelo, a renowned sociologist, this book delves into the concept of white fragility and how it perpetuates racial inequality.
White fragility refers to the defensive reactions that white people often have when their racial privilege is challenged or questioned. DiAngelo argues that this fragility is a key factor in maintaining and perpetuating systemic racism. She explores how white people’s unwillingness to engage in conversations about race and their discomfort with being called out on their privilege ultimately hinders progress towards racial equality.
DiAngelo brings her expertise in racial and social justice to the forefront as she discusses the various ways in which white fragility manifests itself. She provides real-life examples and anecdotes to illustrate her points and offers practical strategies for white people to confront and overcome their fragility.
This movement book challenges readers to examine their own biases and assumptions, and encourages them to actively participate in dismantling racial inequality. It is an essential read for those seeking a deeper understanding of the complexities of racism and the role that white fragility plays in perpetuating it.
The Souls of Black Folk
by W.E.B. Du Bois
The Souls of Black Folk by W.E.B. Du Bois is a remarkable book that can be described as a captivating exploration of the African American experience in the United States during the early 20th century. This groundbreaking work is not just a book about movement; it is a manifesto of empowerment, a testament to resilience, and a call to action.
The Autobiography of Malcolm X
by Malcolm X and Alex Haley
The Autobiography of Malcolm X is an extraordinary book that delves into the life and journey of one of the most influential figures in the civil rights movement. This powerful autobiography, written by Malcolm X himself in collaboration with author and journalist Alex Haley, is not just a book about movement, but a movement book that chronicles the transformation of a man who went from a troubled past to becoming a prominent leader in the fight for racial equality.
The Underground Railroad
by Colson Whitehead
The Underground Railroad by Colson Whitehead is an astonishing book on the art of escape. It is a powerful and gripping novel about the resilience and courage of those who dared to defy the chains of slavery. Whitehead takes us on a journey through the dark and treacherous world of the Underground Railroad, a secret network of paths and safe-houses used by enslaved African Americans in their quest for freedom.
The Hate U Give
by Angie Thomas
The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas is a powerful and thought-provoking book on movement that explores the complexities of race, identity, and activism. Set in a contemporary urban community, the story follows sixteen-year-old Starr Carter as she navigates the two worlds she inhabits: her predominantly black neighborhood and the predominantly white private school she attends.
When Starr witnesses the fatal shooting of her childhood best friend, Khalil, at the hands of a police officer, her life is forever changed. As she grapples with grief and anger, she finds the courage to speak up and seek justice for Khalil. Through her journey, Starr becomes an integral part of a larger movement fighting against police brutality and systemic racism.
Thomas skillfully captures the raw emotions and struggles faced by Starr as she confronts the harsh realities of racial inequality. With a compelling narrative and authentic characters, the book about movement challenges readers to examine their own beliefs and biases, while shedding light on the importance of solidarity and allyship.
The Hate U Give is not just a movement book, but a call to action. It encourages readers to find their own voices and take a stand against injustice. With its powerful message and engaging storytelling, this novel has become a modern classic that continues to inspire and spark conversations about race, activism, and the power of one person to make a difference.
Freedom Is a Constant Struggle
by Angela Y. Davis
Freedom Is a Constant Struggle by Angela Y. Davis is a captivating book on the power of resistance and the ongoing struggle for freedom and justice. Davis, a renowned activist and scholar, delves deep into the heart of various movements that have shaped our world, offering a thought-provoking analysis of the interconnectedness of struggles against oppression.
This book about movement explores the historical and contemporary movements for civil rights, feminism, prison abolition, and international solidarity. Davis examines how these movements have challenged the status quo, disrupted systems of power, and paved the way for transformative change.
With her insightful and passionate writing style, Davis brings to life the stories of individuals who have dedicated their lives to fighting for justice. She emphasizes the importance of collective action, highlighting the power of grassroots movements and the role they play in challenging oppressive structures.
Throughout this movement book, Davis also reflects on the intersections of various struggles, emphasizing the need for solidarity across different marginalized communities. She argues that in order to achieve true freedom, we must recognize and address the interconnected nature of oppression.
Freedom Is a Constant Struggle is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the history and ongoing struggles for justice. Davis’ powerful words will leave you inspired and motivated to join the fight for a more just and equitable world.
So You Want to Talk About Race
by Ijeoma Oluo
Are you ready to dive into a powerful and thought-provoking book on the topic of race? Look no further than So You Want to Talk About Race by Ijeoma Oluo. This book is not just a book about movement, it is a movement in itself.
The Bluest Eye
by Toni Morrison
The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison is a powerful and evocative novel that explores the profound impact of societal movements on individuals. This mesmerizing book delves into the complexities of identity and the quest for self-acceptance in a world that constantly perpetuates a narrow and unattainable standard of beauty.
Set in the 1940s, the story follows the life of Pecola Breedlove, a young African American girl who yearns for blue eyes, believing that possessing them will grant her the love and acceptance she so desperately craves. Through Pecola’s heartbreaking journey, Morrison skillfully weaves together themes of racial oppression, beauty standards, and the destructive effects of internalized racism.
Morrison’s exquisite prose and vivid storytelling transport readers into the heart of Pecola’s world, where they witness the devastating consequences of a society that denies the inherent worth and beauty of its marginalized members. The Bluest Eye is a poignant and thought-provoking exploration of the human desire to belong and the devastating consequences of a society that perpetuates harmful notions of beauty and worth.
This profound movement book challenges readers to confront the damaging effects of societal norms and encourages us to question and redefine our own beliefs about beauty, identity, and acceptance. With its lyrical prose and powerful storytelling, The Bluest Eye is a must-read for anyone seeking a profound examination of the human experience and the quest for self-acceptance in a world that often denies it.
The Fire This Time
by Jesmyn Ward
The Fire This Time, written by Jesmyn Ward, is a powerful and thought-provoking book on movement. It delves into the notion of progress, change, and transformation through a collection of essays and poems by various African American writers.
This captivating anthology explores the struggles, triumphs, and ongoing fight for justice and equality within the African American community. It serves as a testament to the resilience and strength of the movement, showcasing the diverse voices and experiences that shape it.
With its eloquent prose and poignant reflections, The Fire This Time invites readers to join the ongoing movement for racial equality and social change. It challenges us to examine our own roles and responsibilities in creating a more just and inclusive society.
This book about movement is an essential read for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of the ongoing fight for racial justice. It offers a compelling and timely exploration of the movement’s past, present, and future, reminding us of the power of collective action and the need for continued progress.
The Warmth of Other Suns
by Richard Wright
The Warmth of Other Suns is a captivating book about the great migration – a remarkable movement of millions of African Americans from the Jim Crow South to the promise of a better life in the North and West. Richard Wright takes readers on a powerful journey, exploring the struggles and triumphs of individuals who dared to leave everything behind in search of freedom and opportunity. This extraordinary movement book sheds light on a pivotal chapter in American history, offering a profound understanding of the human spirit and the resilience of those who dared to dream of a brighter future.
The Origins of Totalitarianism
by Hannah Arendt
The Origins of Totalitarianism by Hannah Arendt is not just any ordinary book on movement, it is an extraordinary exploration into the depths of human history, politics, and ideology. This masterpiece can be aptly described as a captivating book about movement, shedding light on the rise and consequences of totalitarian regimes that have shaped our world.
Arendt’s movement book takes us on a riveting journey through the origins and development of totalitarianism, examining the rise of both Nazism in Germany and Stalinism in the Soviet Union. With meticulous research and brilliant analysis, she dissects the factors that allowed these movements to gain power and control over entire nations.
But what sets this book apart from others is Arendt’s unique perspective. She delves into the psychological and sociological aspects of these movements, exploring the human desire for belonging, the manipulation of propaganda, and the erosion of individual freedoms. Arendt’s thought-provoking insights force us to question the very nature of human nature itself.
Furthermore, Arendt’s writing style is nothing short of mesmerizing. Her prose is eloquent, her arguments are persuasive, and her ability to connect historical events to contemporary politics is unparalleled. The Origins of Totalitarianism is not just a book about movement; it is a literary masterpiece that engages the mind and challenges our understanding of the world.
So, if you are looking for a book that goes beyond the surface-level analysis of political movements, if you desire a thought-provoking exploration into the depths of human ideology and the consequences it can have, then The Origins of Totalitarianism is the perfect choice. Prepare to be captivated, enlightened, and forever changed by this extraordinary book.
The Feminine Mystique
by Betty Friedan
‘The Feminine Mystique’ is not just a book about movement; it is the movement book that ignited a revolution. Betty Friedan’s iconic work, published in 1963, is a powerful exploration of the stifling and limited roles assigned to women in post-World War II America.
Friedan’s book delves deep into the lives of suburban housewives, revealing their quiet desperation and unfulfilled potential. She coined the term ‘the feminine mystique’ to describe the societal expectation that women could find true fulfillment solely through marriage and motherhood.
With meticulous research and personal testimonies, Friedan exposed the myth of domestic bliss, challenging the prevailing notion that women were naturally content with their prescribed roles. She argued that women were not innately suited for domesticity but were instead victims of cultural conditioning that denied them their full potential as individuals.
By shining a light on the widespread dissatisfaction among middle-class women, ‘The Feminine Mystique’ sparked a feminist movement that would forever change the landscape of America. It inspired countless women to question their traditional roles and demand equality in all aspects of life.
With its powerful message and passionate call to action, ‘The Feminine Mystique’ became a catalyst for the second wave of feminism. It paved the way for women’s liberation, leading to groundbreaking changes in education, employment, reproductive rights, and gender roles.
So, if you’re looking for a book that not only captures the spirit of a movement but also ignited the flames of change, ‘The Feminine Mystique’ is a must-read. Prepare to be inspired and challenged as you journey through the pages of this groundbreaking work.
Conclusion
Overall, these 20 best books about movement offer a diverse range of perspectives and insights into the power and importance of physical activity. Whether you’re interested in sports, dance, or the science behind movement, there’s something for everyone on this list. So, whether you’re looking to deepen your understanding of the body in motion or simply seeking inspiration to get up and get moving, these books are sure to leave you feeling motivated and invigorated. Dive into these pages and discover the transformative power of movement.