Dare to be Kind: How Extraordinary Compassion Can Transform Our World - Softcover

Velasquez, Lizzie

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0349413592 ISBN 13: 9780349413594

Publisher: Piatkus, 2017

Synopsis

YouTube personality and celebrated motivational speaker Lizzie Velasquez shows us how we can learn to accept all parts of ourselves and others, and in doing so create a more compassionate world.

Born with a rare genetic condition, Lizzie Velasquez always knew she was different, but not until she was older did she understand what that meant to others. At 17 years old, when she came across a viral video entitled "World's Ugliest Woman," only to discover that it featured her, she could no longer ignore what set her apart. She devoted herself to investigating the underlying sources of bullying and standing up on behalf of victims everywhere, creating one of the web's most popular YouTube channels and a TED talk that has drawn tens of millions of viewers.

In this daring, inspirational book, Lizzie reveals the hidden forces that give rise to self-doubt, shame, and cruelty, and empowers us to redirect them to unlock empathy and kindness for ourselves and others. Through her own battles with anxiety and coping with disappointment, she demonstrates how we can overcome obstacles in our path and move forward with greater positivity and the right mental attitude.

Brilliantly drawing on Lizzie's wisdom and sentiment, Dare to Be Kind presents the path to acceptance, love, and tolerance, and provides a framework to help us lead confident, resilient lives and, ultimately, forge a radically kind world.

About this title

About the Author

Lizzie Velasquez is a motivational speaker and had over a half a million subscribers on her YouTube channel and the executive producer of a documentary based on her life, A Brave Heart.

Review

"[A] heartfelt and powerful treatise about the importance of being kind, gleaned from first-hand experience...Readers will be inspired by Velasquez's resilient spirit."―Publishers Weekly (starred review)

"Lizzie Velasquez is making our culture a kinder one by encouraging people to undermine hate through self-acceptance and everyday acts of empathy. Her heart and humor shine through on every page!"―Lilly Singh, entertainer, comedian and author of How to Be a Bawse: A Guide to Conquering Life

"Lizzie's story should be mandatory reading for everyone. It's powerful, inspirational, and will leave you with hope that there is good in this world; Lizzie is leading that movement with her words and passion."―Justine Ezarik, author of The New York Times bestseller I, Justine: An Analog Memoir

"Lizzie is a true inspiration with a powerful and positive message. In a world where anyone can be bullied online, her story and insightful advice are the perfect guide to finding your own way."―Rosanna Pansino, author of the New York Times bestseller Nerdy Nummies Cookbook

"Eschewing victimhood, Velasquez argues that
everyone struggles with valleys in life and though her valley is rarer, it is no different in depth and impact.
This is a wonderful and fast read, full of vitality that captures the luminous spirit of kindness that
Velasquez so beautifully embodies."―Booklist

"Lizzie Velasquez's courage and compassion shine through as she shares her inspirational journey. No matter what challenges you face in life, Dare to Be Kind can help you find the strength to overcome them."―Amy Morin, author of 13 Things Mentally Strong People Don't Do

"Lizzie Velasquez is proof that the only way to make a dream happen is to believe in it. No matter what anyone says--especially the voice in your own head. She dares us to be kind to each other, love ourselves, and become the cheerleader in our own life's story."―Lauren Zander, Co-Founder of Handel Group and author of Maybe It's You: Cut the Crap, Face Your Fears, Love Your Life


"Lizzie Valasquez touched me. And I'm so glad she did. (Take this in the least creepiest way possible.) Her story, her strength and her kindness are not only inspirational to me, but to millions. And to millions more! This incredible book needs to come with every bedside table, coffee table and school desk around."―Liza Koshy, comedian and social media personality

"I dare to be more like Lizzie! People full of love and light are the ones that are setting the bar for all of us. Dare to Be Kind is incredible and I'm so excited to see what else is in store for this lovely lady! Spread love always."―Miles McKenna, actor, comedian and LGBTQ+ activist

"Lizzie's message of spreading kindness and positivity is one that speaks to all ages. I loved Dare to Be Kind!"―Amymarie Gaertner, actress, dancer and social media personality

Edition details

• Publisher: Piatkus
• Publication date: 2017
• ISBN 10: 0349413592
• ISBN 13: 9780349413594
• Binding: Paperback
• Language: English
• Number of pages: 208