This book deserves a thorough read through by the Western society. I feel like it's finally answering the question Why we can’t help those we think or should help, and how the explanation more often than not lies within us, and not those we think are in need of help.

There's a fantastic example of an Italian volunteer who travels to Africa to help show the local people how to start growing tomatoes, which quickly grow to be the size of an infant's head. And everyone is celebrating. Until the day comes when the hippos arrive and eat all the tomatoes.
So, the Italians say to the locals - Why didn't you tell us this would happen?
And the locals shrug - You didn't ask?

It goes to show how everyone has their own background and understanding of the world around them, and the most important thing is actually to CONNECT with others, instead of simply enforcing your own rights and wrongs on others.

“Good intentions don’t ensure good outcomes. Helping other people is both an art and a science.”

It also provides valuable insights into global humanitarian laws and opens your view to a larger understanding as to why some of the biggest current political problems arise.

Wow! This book really helped me to think more deeply about the help I want to give to others. I loved the real stories of humanitarian aid helping solve the problem or creating more problems. The book gives several things to think about when planning to provide aid. A wonderful read!

Eubank's humanitarian experience lends authority to her principles, and the focus on sustainable, dignified aid addresses common pitfalls in charitable work. This could be valuable for readers wanting to help but unsure how to do it effectively.

#DoingSmallThingswithGreatLove #NetGalley

The author had a way of drawing me in by sharing personal experiences in humanitarian work. Her insights were that the people who need help also need to be able to keep their dignity, which is very important when giving aid. Those closest to the situation can best help with the solution. Sharon Eubank shared several examples of those who thought they were being helpful, and in some instances, they created more problems. I liked this quote form the book 'Iv we focus simply on the infrastructure of food, sanitation, security and shelter, we miss the heart of the matter.' The book gives several suggestions of how humanitarian work can be done right in our own neighborhood and community.

This book delivers exactly as promised. The author lays out principles for humanitarian action, explains each, and offers stories and suggestions to apply those locally. This one has a very textbook vibe and such a specific, narrow, focus that I’m not sure of universal appeal. Might recommend to church groups looking to make local impact.

I adore Sharon Eubank and was delighted to read her book. Sharon offers brilliant and easy to implement ideas to make a difference in both a small and large scale way. I highly recommend this beautifully impactful book. Many thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for the review copy.