I have a new book coming out tomorrow: Playbook for Justice: James Lawson and the Nonviolent Movement in America. Election Day feels perfect because democracy offers us many chances and tools for change, but it requires our participation and protection. A true understanding of the power of nonviolence and strategic action is needed now more than ever.
Writing Playbook for Justice has been a calling. But I need your help to get the word out. While Playbook for Justice is traditionally published and available everywhere books are sold, this isn’t a book that will be carried in many bookstores, at least not at first. People won’t just stumble upon it.
Here are a few actions to take that will truly make a difference:
- Buy a copy of the book from a local independent bookstore – geographic diversity helps!
- Donate a copy (or ten!) to a school, church, youth organization, or library
- Pre-order Soulforce: James Lawson and the Nonviolent Campaign to Desegregate Nashville, a picture book releasing next year.
(These are Free.99)
- Visit teacherlesley.com to learn more.
- Forward this email to someone else.
- Repost my social media posts and stories tomorrow on IG, Linked In, and Facebook and tag a friend in the comments.
- Suggest someone follow me on IG @teacher.lesley.
- Post a picture of you with Playbook for Justice if you see it in the wild.
- Request Playbook for Justice from your local library.
- Recommend Playbook for Justice to a teacher, librarian, youth pastor, or historian.
- Tell someone I do speaking engagements and school visits.
- Stop by a public event – I will advertise them on social media and on my website. I hope to come to a city near you soon!
- Submit a glowing review in Goodreads or Amazon.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is this book about?
Reverend James Lawson Jr. believed we could build a better world through nonviolence. This young adult nonfiction book weaves his biography into a nonviolent history of the United States. It concludes with a teen guide to training as a nonviolent “athlete” by integrating principles and practices into their daily lives.
Who is this book for?
It is written for youth ages 11-18, but honestly adults who want a quick informational read enjoy my work as well. It is also for people who work with teens like teachers, librarians, and youth group leaders. There is a component on mental health and SEL skills so therapists and social workers might like it too.
Is there a picture book version?
Yes! Soulforce James Lawson and the Nonviolent Campaign to Desegregate Nashville will be out on February 2, 2027. The illustrations by Dwayne “Dubelyoo” Wright are amazing. It is now available for pre-order.
What inspired these books?
I grew up in Reverend Lawson’s Los Angeles congregation at Holman United Methodist Church and attended his inspiring community nonviolence workshops as an adult. While Reverend Lawson is mentioned in a couple of picture books and in John Lewis’s graphic novel March: Book One, there were no stand alone biographical texts for young people. So I wrote them!
Where can we buy it?
Everywhere books are sold including Amazon, Target, and Barnes & Noble. If those are not businesses you support, bookshop.org has it too. I also recommend these indie bookstores.
Politics and Prose (DC)
Malik Books (LA)
Marcus Books (Oakland)
Underground Books (Sacramento)
Can I order a signed book?
Not at this time, but stay tuned.
Should we wait to buy it when we see you or to get it signed?
Maybe, but early purchases are important, and you can always just buy another one. 😉
Don’t you have other books?
Yes I do!
Is there a book for adults about Reverend Lawson?
Yes there is! More information here:
Isn’t there a movie too?
Yes there is! More information here:
https://jameslawsondocumentary.com
Thank you for bearing with me and for any and all support. Book promotion is challenging for authors, but part of the job these days. I do it with joy because these books have a mission to touch many hearts and minds. I appreciate your help in fulfilling that mission and your continued support of my art.
With Much Love and Light,
Lesley
