5 books to inspire and take action

Books are powerful tools that help us broaden our perspective on the world and on ourselves. Today, on World Book Day, we invite you to see them as a catalyst for narratives. “Reading the world precedes reading the word,” said Paulo Freire, which shows us the importance of the particular place each person comes from in the construction of language. At the same time, it makes us consider reading a possible path to expand the individual universe, with valuable lessons to collectively transform the world around us.

In this post, we've selected some of the books recommended in the MBM Radar, our monthly newsletter. In each edition, we invite a team member or industry partner to share a book to read and reflect upon. To receive a great suggestion every month, subscribe .

In this selection, the readings will inspire you to take action. The works address diverse themes, from stories of people who overcame challenges and went on to multiply the impact of their actions, to reflections on the importance of taking responsibility for the changes we want in the world, aligned with the values ​​of a society based on social justice.

If you're looking for motivation to engage in a cause, boost your performance, or simply want to broaden your perspective and learn from the experiences of other social leaders, this list is for you! Check it out!

Structural racism

by Silvio Almeida

By reading “Structural Racism,” by jurist and current Minister of Human Rights, Silvio Almeida, the reader gains access to an overview, albeit brief, of the racial issue in Brazil. In the work, the author presents statistical data and discusses the social, political, and economic structure of Brazilian society, which contributed to inequalities, especially the racial issue. Recommended reading for those who want to begin to familiarize themselves with this extremely important discussion in the Brazilian context, as well as for those who want a quick pocket guide to the main themes. The book is part of the Plural Feminisms collection by philosopher Djamila Ribeiro and helps to understand how discrimination is structured and forged in Brazil's origins.

Evaluate what matters

by John Doerr

A path for those who wish to set goals with more assertiveness and purpose, in life, professionally, or whatever they desire. Embark on the wonderful journey of OKRs (Objectives and Key Results) in "Measure What Matters," by author John Doerr, who closely followed the development of the methodology. This is because he documents the growth process of giant technology companies, such as Intel and Google, which adopted the model that promises to use timely and relevant data to track project progress. An excellent read to master the tool, which is also the basis of the work here at MBM. More focus and agility to achieve great results.

From the favela to the world

by Edu Lyra

"It doesn't matter where you come from, but where you're going." With this mantra, Edu Lyra, founder and CEO of Gerando Falcões, an organization partnered with MBM, defies statistics to intervene in the lives of thousands of families living in poverty. In "From the Favela to the World," he invites the reader on a journey across the entire social spectrum from the perspective of someone who comes from the favela and has traveled a long road to engage in dialogue and build bridges with the upper echelons of capitalist society. With audacious goals and challenges that could paralyze anyone, Edu is not intimidated by the size of the problems; on the contrary, he transforms everything into fuel to reach more and more people and achieve his goal: to transform poverty into a museum piece. The book is just one part of this journey, which is worth knowing.

Systemic management for a complex world

by Mariana Pechlivanis

"Everything is connected to everything else. And you, are you connected to that?" This is the provocative question posed in the subtitle of the book, written by Marina Pechlivanis, founding partner of Umbigo do Mundo, a partner of the Bem Maior Movement in the Education Platform for Kindness and Generosity. The book addresses the complex challenges of today from a systemic management approach, which views the world as interdependent, where everything is connected to everything else, including people. Like us at the Bem Maior Movement, the author has a vision of society in which everyone is co-responsible, therefore solutions need to be built collaboratively. In addition to reflections and questions based on a series of authors and thinkers, you have access to interviews and practical exercises. To really get your hands dirty!

Lessons from a rebellious businessman 

by Yvon Chouinard

Yvon Chouinard is the founder and owner of Patagonia, a company that produces clothing and equipment for outdoor sports. In 2001, Yvon helped found 1% For The Planet, a business alliance that encourages companies to donate at least one percent of their annual sales to a group of organizations committed to the environment worldwide. Today, he contributes significantly to activists engaged in these causes, is a member of numerous environmental organizations, and spends a good part of his time outdoors. His story teaches us a great deal about purpose in life and makes us reflect on the role companies need to play in a sustainable world.

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