Move the Message: Your Guide to Making A Difference and Changing the World

Rating:
Summary: An Incredible Book!
Review: Move the Message is an absolute must-read for all activists of any degree. THIS IS AN INCREDIBLE BOOK! It is phenomenally well-written, thoughtfully organized and thoroughly complete down to the simplest details. Bellaccomo provides step-by-step procedures for effective presentations, letter writing, press releases, rallying, protesting, etc. Her approach is extremely sensible and positive.

I recommend reading the entire book and then using it as a reference for specific activities. Even the most seasoned presenter will find new, valuable ideas that will bring his or her effectiveness to a higher level. If you are a hard-working activist feeling the burnout and frustration of putting in lots of energy with little apparent payoff, this book is for you. You will find ways to freshen and focus your approach with rewarding results. If you are moved to make a difference but are fearful of being in front of people and negotiating with the opposing side, this book is for you as well because the method to prepare yourself is so easy to follow, with very small, manageable steps.

Move the Message does not eliminate the work that you need to do but it provides a meticulous format to guide you all the way to success. There are numerous examples of actual events that Bellaccomo uses to illustrate her points. Not only are they useful, but they are interesting as well as informative. Many provide inspiration, showing how a well-planned activity can demonstrate the desired result.

There are numerous tips on how to deal with the media, the police, the crowd, team members and those she terms the "power holders." She gives advice on what to do and not do if you are arrested. The book provides instructions on how to use your eyes, hands and feet with explanations why and what the affects will be in different situations. Some of the information may seem obvious but we may not have given much thought to its impact. Bellaccomo makes crystal clear the importance of your appearance.

The author actually follows her own recommendations and is an excellent speaker, communicator and trainer. Inviting Josephine Bellaccomo to give a talk or workshop on effective activism would be a worthwhile venture.

If all of us followed the procedures outlined in Move the Message I truly believe we could move mountains, making a powerful difference to change the world for the better.