The Art of Disruption: A Manifesto For Real Change. – Magid Magid
In his first book, The Art of Disruption: A Manifesto for Real Change, Magid calls out to each of his readers “we need your energy, passion and unique voice”. He uses this adventure into non-fiction writing as an opportunity to lay out a bold guide of commandments to be kind, don’t be a pr*ck, do epic sh*t, see the good, don’t lose hope, do it differently, always buy your round, don’t kiss a Tory, tell your ma you love her and you’ve got this.
Amongst this daring setting, Magid beautifully shares his experiences along the way whether that be memories that have taken place on Sheffield buses, banning Donald Trump from Sheffield or even getting elected as an MEP representing the Yorkshire and Humber area. Each chapter is prefaced by not only one of Magid’s ten commandments but also a selection of relevant quotations taken from notable figures including Maya Angelou, Martin Luther King and Toni Morrisson.
Magid doesn’t just talk about politics merely on the surface but gets down to the roots of activism connection, kindness and inspiration. Poignantly describing how
“As we grow up, it is easy to forget just how powerful that initial feeling of connection is. Building bridges with strangers can become harder; we can become isolated from others and fearful of new and different people. And yet I believe that we all yearn for connection, even if we don’t show it”.
He declares that “kindness is bold, brave and politically radical” and admits that for him “inspiring others matters more to me than personal glory because it lasts”.
Certainly not letting us forget his naturally charismatic nature, Magid continues to make us laugh with comments such as “I hate to echo what some of your intimate partners may have said but you are doing it wrong.” and through questioning tradition, “what is tradition other than peer pressure from dead people?”
Overall Magid’s words are exciting, raw, and empowering as he invites readers to do things differently.