Now What?
How to Move Forward When We’re Divided (About Basically Everything)
About
"A big-hearted, clear-eyed look at the polarized world we find ourselves in--with real guidance on how to move forward."--Anne Helen Petersen, author of Can't Even
What do we do when our lives seem mired in conflict? How do we find connection when our differences are constantly on display and even exacerbated by algorithms and echo chambers? How do we move forward together when we're so far apart?
If you are tired of the anxiety, frustration, and fear that pervade your online and in-person relationships, Sarah Stewart Holland and Beth Silvers want you to know one thing--you are not alone. In this book they will show you how to
· engage your family with a spirit of curiosity
· listen closely to the anxieties and fears of your friends
· explore shared values within your community
· understand your work as a citizen in a diverse country
· be an informed global citizen without burning out
Now What? is the door to a future that is characterized by hope, love, and connection despite our differences.
"We need this book now more than ever."--Gretchen Carlson, acclaimed journalist, female empowerment advocate, and cofounder of Lift Our Voices
"Sarah and Beth have somehow figured out a way to approach every discussion with grace, composure, and wisdom."--Clint Harp, TV/podcast host and author of Handcrafted: A Woodworker's Story
"Our shared conflicts can actually create deeper connections with people? I'll have what they are having."--Jen Hatmaker, speaker, podcast host, and New York Times bestselling author of Fierce, Free, and Full of Fire
Endorsements
"Beth and Sarah wrote the book we want and need for right now. In this story-driven guide, they provide a road map to having hard conversations and tackling tough topics with grace and care. Their suggestions and examples will bolster your confidence to discuss fraught issues in a way that bridges the gap between you and your loved ones instead of shutting down communication. (If you were to jot down their conversational prompts on index cards to keep in your pocket for easy reference before your next family gathering, I wouldn't blame you a bit!) Even in these difficult times, this dependable author duo makes readers feel like we really might be able to all move forward, together."
Anne Bogel, host of What Should I Read Next podcast
"Lively and accessible and smart, Now What? addresses the human condition and the complications that have made so many Americans feel divided and disheartened in their politics and their personal lives. With a fresh approach and some good faith, the cohosts of the podcast Pantsuit Politics argue, conflict can be used to strengthen connections, not sever them."
Susan Page, Washington bureau chief of USA TODAY and New York Times bestselling author of Madam Speaker
"In Now What? Sarah and Beth challenge us to see the connections we share as human beings--from our closest friends to the fellow citizens we may never meet. Then, just as they have done for years on their podcast, they empower us through curiosity and grace to strengthen these connections that hold us up and hold us together. We need this book now more than ever."
Gretchen Carlson, acclaimed journalist, female empowerment advocate, and cofounder of Lift Our Voices
"Sarah and Beth are two of my favorite grown-ups because they are honest about both the best and the worst of us. They never allow us to draw sweeping conclusions about anything, especially each other. If we're going to learn how to move forward together, then we need trustworthy guides for the journey. This is the book to help us make amends, increase the good, and learn how to show up for each other even when we disagree."
Emily P. Freeman, Wall Street Journal bestselling author of The Next Right Thing
"This isn't a book about politics; it's a book about empathy. At a time when we just want to be better humans, Beth and Sarah show us the way."
Kendra Adachi, New York Times bestselling author of The Lazy Genius Way
"Reflective, smart, a breath of fresh air that captures our humanity during a time of division and uncertainty. Overcoming polarization in our country begins with grace by reading Now What?: How to Move Forward When We're Divided (About Basically Everything) and by listening to Sarah and Beth. A must-read for anyone who wishes to build connection, search for solutions, and promote healing for family, community, and nation."
Amy McGrath, retired Marine Corps fighter pilot, former candidate for US Senate, and author of Honor Bound
"This book is a bighearted, clear-eyed look at the polarized world we find ourselves in--with real guidance on how to move forward."
Anne Helen Peterson, author of Can't Even
"As the world begins to reemerge from the chaos of the last few years, we look to our friends Sarah and Beth to help us make sense of 'what now?' In their comforting but honest way, these creators of community invite us to remain active in the work of our lives: committing to the hard and holy process of loving other people, even when what they believe is an affront to what we hold dear. There's no better guide for how to actually connect, how to manage our own expectations, and how to genuinely love (not just tolerate) those we vehemently disagree with. I'm so grateful we live in a world with Sarahs and Beths."
Erin Moon, resident Bible scholar on The Bible Binge podcast and author of O Heavy Lightness, Every Broken Thing, and Memento Mori
"There is no magic elixir, as Sarah and Beth would say, to solve division in our world. But there is a magic mindset, and these two women have it. With personal stories and practical advice, they show us how to love our neighbors--which includes our families--and make peace with discomfort. If you, like me, would occasionally prefer locking your door and holing up with a tub of cookie dough instead of dealing with other humans, you need this book."
Elizabeth Passarella, author of Good Apple