The Barefoot Guide 4: Exploring the Real Work of Social Change

This is a book about social change practices from many countries. It contains a variety of stories, analyses, and ideas, with many poems and illustrations to illuminate and enhance the text.

For activists, civil society leaders, practitioners and students, this is not a book of easy answers, but one of experiences, learnings and questions, all asking “What is the real work of social change?” We have not attempted to provide “best practice models”, but rather something to be learned from, to deepen our questions, and to be more thoughtful in our practice.

The Barefoot Guide 4 was individually and collectively written by almost 40 social change activists, leaders and practitioners from 19 countries and represents a fascinating diversity of experiences and insights.

It is a small feast of experiences and ideas, serious and playful, obvious and mysterious, illustrated by four artists, to help illuminate and provide creative bridges into the text.

You are invited to sample whatever catches your eye, whatever speaks to your circumstances and need. We hope that it will provide ideas and inspiration to many people working to bring about social change.