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Resource Roundup – Books We Love!

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At Kaafi Counseling we strongly believe in the power of sharing resources and books. In the spirit of ‘each one, teach one’ we are beginning a new series called “Resource Roundup” where we share some of the resources that support us both personally and professionally. 

For this first Resource Roundup we are sharing four favorite books recommended by our own Amal Rogers, Operations Director at Kaafi Counseling. Check out your local library for a copy!

The Body Keeps the Score; Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma by Bessel Van Der Kolk

Van Der Kolk is a leading researcher in trauma and his expertise is clear throughout this rich and sometimes intense read. 

This book is regarded as one of the essential resources in understanding how trauma affects the body. Whether or not you have experienced severe trauma this book provides insights that can help one to process their experiences and to have deeper empathy for others.

My Grandmother’s Hands: Racialized Trauma and the Pathway to Mending Our Hearts and Bodies by Resmaa Menakem

This profound book examines how America’s violent racist history affects our bodies and lives. 

Menakem provides insight into how white supremacy is embodied – living not just in our minds but in our bones and blood, and helps one envision alternative possibilities. 

This book is valuable for deeper understanding of healing and race related trauma. 

Love Series by bell hooks

The Love Series by bell hooks consists of:

  1. All About Love; New Visions,
  2. The WIll to Change; Men Masculinity and Love,
  3. Salvation; Black People and Love;
  4. Communion: The Female Search for Love. 

And, whoa! we cannot stress enough what a powerful series this is. Each book contains insight that can feel affirming and sometimes shattering. bell hooks writes social theory in a way that is accessible and enjoyable, these books can easily be beach reads despite their profundity. 

Ground breaking and Must Read for ALL! 

The Politics of Trauma; Somatics, Healing, and Social Justice by Staci Haines

With the newest book on this list, Staci Haines offers the cultural context for trauma healing. Haines is one of the founders of the organization Generative Somatics and her experience shines in this book that helps us move from an individual focus toward collective transformation.

We hope you find these resources/books enlightening and illuminating as we did. Stay tuned for more to come for our next Resource Roundup!