Lenses of Humanity: How Reflection, Connection, and Empathy Can Heal Our World

by Kyle A. Reyes

210 pages, Paperback

Published September 27, 2024

Reviews

[Jenn Palomino · Rating 5 out of 5]

I took my sweet time reading this book because I really wanted to take in the message of it. I’ll be honest, I’m a little biased here since Dr. Reyes was one of my professors at UVU but I can truly say that he lives the message in this book to the fullest. In today’s world it’s hard to find common ground with people we disagree with but the concept of lenses of humanity helps us learn to take a step back and treat those around us with the dignity everyone deserves. Definitely a lot here that I need to better take and apply in my own life, but overall I loved this book and it will be one I will revisit.

[Noreen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book isn't for you if you think that everyone else is the problem. This book isn't for you if you think that healing the world is someone else's job. This book isn't for you if you are not willing to take a look at yourself or if you are not willing to open your mind and heart to others.

However, this book IS for you if you have a desire to live in a more harmonious world and are willing to do some simple (not always easy) things.

What I liked most about this book is the way Dr. Reyes presented his research. It was done with personal stories, relatable anecdotes, and beautiful case studies. It was academic without it reading academic. It was enjoyable to read/learn.

My suggestion is read it once for the whole concept. Then read it again taking the time to do the exercises. They can take some time to do. And then buy a copy for a friend so you have someone to discuss the exercises with. It will take more than one book club meeting to tackle all you will learn about yourself and others.

[Marcelo · Rating 2 out of 5]

Kyle Reyes' Lenses of Humanity aspires to be a transformative guide for fostering empathy, connection, and reflection in an increasingly divided world. While the book's intentions are commendable, its execution leaves much to be desired.

The central premise—that shifting our perspectives can heal societal rifts—is undeniably relevant. Reyes introduces a framework centered on self-awareness, understanding others, empathy, and community building. However, the book often veers into repetitive territory, reiterating the same concepts without offering substantial new insights. This redundancy can make the reading experience feel more like a lecture than an engaging exploration.

Moreover, the personal anecdotes, while intended to humanize the content, sometimes come across as self-congratulatory. Rather than serving as relatable examples, they occasionally detract from the universality of the message, making it harder for readers from diverse backgrounds to connect.

The exercises proposed throughout the book, designed to facilitate introspection and growth, are well-meaning but lack depth. Without adequate guidance or context, they risk feeling like obligatory tasks rather than meaningful practices. This oversight diminishes the potential impact of the book's core message.

In summary, while Lenses of Humanity tackles an important subject, its repetitive nature, self-centered anecdotes, and superficial exercises hinder its effectiveness. Readers seeking profound insights into empathy and societal healing might find this book lacking in depth and originality.

[Sekar Writes · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book talks about how we see the world and how we can grow by changing our perspectives. Reyes uses four main ideas—self-awareness, understanding others, empathy, and community building. What really stood out to me was the left-handers analogy, which made me think about how society often leaves out people who don’t fit the "normal." It made me rethink what "normal" really is and how we can create a more inclusive world.

A great read for anyone who wants to challenge their views and build better connections with others.

Thank you, Netgalley, for the ARC in exchange for my review.

[Saysha · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great book for educators and others who are looking for ways to bridge the gaps in their understanding of other cultures and people. I especially appreciated Dr. Reyes's thoughts on reframing dissonance. There are some redundancies in the book, but I appreciated his perspective, and it was an interesting conversation for my book club.

[Shauna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it! Reyes interweaves interesting personal stories and anecdotes with practical ideas for broadening our perspective. We ALL have work to do to see each other more clearly.

[Chiara Davies · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved the mixture of anecdotal and empirical context — it made for a very relatable and empowering read!

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

These aren’t new concepts. But I love how he delivers them.

[David Barney · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good insights for society regarding being becoming more emphathic.