Human(Kind): How Reclaiming Human Worth and Embracing Radical Kindness Will Bring Us Back Together

Eiland shares in her revealing and enthralling debut her journey as a black woman struggling to find her place. When around mostly white people, Eiland felt isolated, but she didn’t quite fit in in predominantly black communities, either, and her friends accused her of being black on the outside and white on the inside. Using this feeling of disconnection as an impetus for self-examination, Eiland considers how her experiences shaped her and illustrates through personal stories her discovery of self-worth, such as how she found a lifelong friendships through a predominately Asian Christian fellowship group. Likewise, she encourages readers practice “radical kindness” to themselves and toward others; “Kindness will be able to undo the damage we’ve done because it’s the secret weapon for detecting intrinsic worth found in every person.” Drawing on experiences that capture “a gateway to humankindness,” she expounds on themes such as sacrifice, honor, respect, acceptance, gratitude, rejection, commitment, and loss. She also provides questions for personal reflection at the end of each themed chapter. Though not targeted to a strictly religious audience, Eiland’s insightful take is informed by her faith. Readers looking to cultivate more empathy—toward others and toward themselves— will enjoy Eiland’s wise testament. (Apr.)