DO MORE GOOD

A heartfelt collection of life lessons inspired by changemakers.

Ghosh, a social impact strategist, combines memoir, biography, and practical advice in this book about the impact that 30 icons, mentors, and family members have made on his approach to service. “Lessons from others not only sustained me but helped me thrive,” he explains. The book opens with a lesson in empathy from his parents, whose generosity inspired the author to start a local community organization to address sanitation issues in the slums of Kolkata, India (Ghosh’s childhood home). The author recalls hearing the Dalai Lama (who contributes this book’s foreword) speak about the importance of showing respect and compassion for low-income citizens as entrepreneurs undertook various development initiatives across the Indian subcontinent and Africa. Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg served as a role model of civility for Ghosh, who cites Ginsburg’s friendship with Justice Antonin Scalia as an example of her ability to respect and work with others across ideological lines. After meeting Pakistani activist Malala Yousafzai in 2013, the author became inspired to speak out about important issues because she taught him that “silence is not an option.” Ghosh concludes with a touching chapter celebrating his son, Ryan, a young man with an adventurous spirit, the ability to embrace diversity, and a passion for fostering connection. The author’s personable voice will make his high-profile life of hobnobbing with globally renowned figures feel relatable to everyday readers—he describes how Mother Teresa made him feel “completely flooded with utter joy at her love, compassion, mercy, and greatness” with just the touch of her hand. However, the narrative occasionally praises controversial figures like Bill Clinton, about whom Ghosh gushes, “It was impossible not to like this man.” Still, the author’s empathy is evident in lines like, “Poverty is a condition created by a social construction that benefits some and not others. It is not a character flaw or a personal failing.” The text lists resources and organizations in each chapter to help readers engage in their own philanthropic efforts.

An uplifting book that views some flawed figures through rose-colored glasses.