In 2011, NCoC published our first “Book Club” reading list and heard loud and clear from you that you really loved the compliation. So we’re now publishing our 2012 list, with some of our favorite reads released by our partners this year. Feel free to add what’s on your reading list in the comments below.

Whether you’re looking for some stocking stuffers, 8 nights of candlelit reading, or just a good book to curl up with while Mother Nature lets it snow, our Holiday Book List has something for all the civic-minded boys and girls.



The Parties Versus the People: How to Turn Republicans and Democrats into Americans
Long-time Congressman Mickey Edwards writes compellingly about the state of politics in our country—how we got into what he believes is a dysfunctional system, and what can be done to correct this moving forward. His book offers solutions for politicians and citizens alike to put party aside and put country first.

Winning the Inside Game: The Handbook of Advocacy Strategies NCoC Executive Director Ilir Zherka (formerly of DC Vote) has written this handbook which is a practical, accessible, unique handbook to help leaders become more successful advocates. It provides straightforward guidance, specific techniques, and outlines ten fundamental principles for effective advocacy, supported by real-life examples and commentary from prominent Washington activists.

The Warrior’s Heart Lt. Eric Greitens’ most recent book shares his personal story with young readers, encouraging them to live lives of courage and compassion. Read our interview with Eric about this book, and check out his last publication, “The Heart and the Fist.”

A Good Man Mark Shriver remembers the life-long legacy of public service offered by his father, the late Sargent Shriver. Mark’s book helps reflect on the principles of faith, hope, and love embodied by his father, which are necessary ingredients for a life of service.

Democracy in Motion: Evaluating the Practice and Impact of Deliberative Civic Engagement This book represents the first comprehensive attempt to assess the practice and impact of deliberative civic engagement, and helps address some of the big questions facing the field. It’s a compliation edited by Tina Nabatchi, John Gastil, G. Michael Welksner, and Matt Leighninger. Read NCoC’s interview with Matt to learn more.

Making Civics Count: Citizenship Education for a New Generation This book offers research-based insights into what diverse students and teachers know and do as civic actors, and proposes a blueprint for civic education for a new generation that is both practical and visionary. It’s edited by David E. Campbell, Meira Levinson, and Frederick M. Hess, and you can check it out here.

Citizenship: What Every American Needs to Know Compiled by Brenda Star, this is a compact, easy–to–read, concise educational book about America: its history, its government, and how it works. Citizenship offers citizens the tools they need to take part in thoughtful civic engagement.


Want more ideas? Check out the reading list we published in 2011 and add your own suggestions in the comments below! You can also check out our 12 Most Popular Web Features of 2012.