Joe Gallina’s Favorite Books on Activism (And Why They Still Matter Right Now)

Activism isn’t just about organizing rallies or trending hashtags—it’s about clarity. It’s about understanding the systems we’re up against, the strategies that work, and the voices that have already paved the way. And if you know me, you know that I believe in pairing action with insight. That’s why this list of Joe Gallina’s favorite books on activism is more than a bookshelf; it’s a toolkit.

These aren’t just bestselling books. They’re battle-tested blueprints, written by people who didn’t just talk—they did the work. Whether you’re building a campaign, launching a movement, or trying to find your voice in the chaos, these titles will ground you, challenge you, and move you forward.

Rules for Radicals by Saul D. Alinsky

This is the book that changed how community organizing works in America. Alinsky doesn’t sugarcoat anything—he talks strategy, power dynamics, and how to make real change in hostile environments. It’s the playbook many modern organizers still reference, from local movements to national campaigns.

Alinsky’s lessons still apply because injustice hasn’t changed its tactics—it’s just rebranded. If you want to understand how to challenge systems from the inside out, start here.

No Is Not Enough by Naomi Klein

Written in the wake of Trump’s election, Klein breaks down how those in power weaponize shock, fear, and chaos—and how activists can push back with a bold, proactive vision. It’s about rebuilding. This book gave language to a lot of what we were experiencing at Call to Activism in real-time. It’s part warning, part wake-up call, and 100% necessary.

This Is an Uprising by Mark Engler and Paul Engler

If you’ve ever wondered why some protests fade while others change history, this book explains it. It blends historical case studies with strategy and offers a powerful framework for organizing sustained, disciplined movements that actually win.

The Englers don’t just tell you what happened—they show you how it worked. I’ve used their analysis to shape messaging, timing, and coalition building.

A must-read for strategic organizers.

Sister Outsider by Audre Lorde

A collection of essays and speeches from one of the most essential voices in Black feminism and intersectional justice. Lorde’s writing is fierce, poetic, and still painfully relevant. She reminds us that activism is personal, and silence is not an option.

This book made me stop and reflect on how privilege, identity, and language shape who gets heard—and who doesn’t.

Every page pushes you to do better, listen deeper, and lead with more integrity.

On Tyranny: Twenty Lessons from the Twentieth Century by Timothy Snyder

In 20 short, razor-sharp chapters, Snyder outlines how democracies crumble—and how we can stop it. Based on historical patterns from fascist regimes, it offers clear, practical steps citizens and activists can take to defend truth, institutions, and civil liberties.

I’ve recommended this book more times than I can count. It’s short, direct, and terrifyingly accurate. If you’ve ever felt that democracy was slipping, this book will tell you exactly what to look for—and what to do about it.

We Do This ‘Til We Free Us by Mariame Kaba

Centered on abolitionist organizing, Kaba challenges traditional ideas of justice and punishment. Through essays, interviews, and real-world organizing insights, she makes the case for collective care, accountability, and long-term systems change.

This one’s challenging in the best way. It forces you to confront your assumptions and think beyond reform. Kaba doesn’t just critique the system. She offers a vision for something better.

Always Read to Strategize

The best activism doesn’t come from outrage; rather, it comes from informed outrage. That’s what these books offer: not just ideas, but strategy. They’ll sharpen your arguments, expand your thinking, and give you the kind of grounding that makes your next action smarter and more impactful.

If you’re serious about building power, dismantling injustice, or amplifying truth, these aren’t just books. They’re companions on the journey.