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A Path Appears
Book

A Path Appears

Transforming Lives, Creating Opportunity

Nicholas D. Kristof and Sheryl WuDunn
Knopf, 2014
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Editorial Rating

8

Qualities

  • Well Structured
  • Concrete Examples
  • Inspiring

Recommendation

Pulitzer Prize-winning journalists Nicholas D. Kristof and Sheryl WuDunn assert persuasively that everyone has the potential to spread opportunity and change lives. Their book shines in its inspiring anecdotes about people who overcome the challenges that can impede effective philanthropy. Kristof and WuDunn underscore their great stories with the results of studies proving that the aid efforts they showcase are effectual at addressing pivotal, underlying problems. In a few spots, the research can get a bit dense for the casual reader, but the authors make a compelling case that giving back is universally possible and beneficial. Kristof and WuDunn provide practical, empirical advice for readers of all ages and backgrounds who want to contribute to a cause. getAbstract recommends this engrossing examination of philanthropy to students, executives of for-profit and nonprofit organizations, and those who wish to give back but may not know how to begin.

Summary

The Doors of Opportunity

Everyone wants to do something meaningful to address society’s problems, but “good intentions” alone can’t ensure that your philanthropic efforts will have the effect you desire.

The American Dream argues that willingness to work hard leads to achievement and earnings. In truth, good fortune can come just as much from circumstances that no individual gets to choose. You don’t pick when and where you are born, or to whom. Growing up in poverty inhibits people’s ability to make good decisions and act productively. Compound that cognitive handicap with other environmental and societal obstacles, such as racism, fear of violence or threat of rape, and it’s little wonder people fail to break free of circumstances unless they have outside support. Instead of looking down on those hampered by the “lottery of birth,” give them a shot at success.

What does it take to open the doors of opportunity to others? How can you avoid becoming discouraged, knowing that no single action can fix the world’s problems? Recognize that doing something is always better than doing nothing. When everyone does a little something, change happens. Consider all the ...

About the Authors

New York Times op-ed columnist Nicholas D. Kristof and his wife Sheryl WuDunn co-wrote the bestseller, Half the Sky. They won a Pulitzer for their coverage of Tiananmen Square. Kristof also won a Pulitzer for his columns from Darfur.

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