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Cheng-Tozun, D. 2023. Social Justice for the Sensitive Soul: How to Change the World in Quiet Ways. — 303.372 Ch

The following review was written by church member Cory Zann.

Cheng-Tozun defines a “Sensitive Soul” as someone who identifies with one of “three overlapping groups: highly sensitive, empathic, and introverted. This book is for those who identify with one of these groups and interested “in engaging with social justice” … in a way that allows us to “live authentically and joyfully”. (5).
Cheng-Tozun identifies as a sensitive soul who has been committed to social justice work for many years. As a result of not taking care of herself, she has suffered several serious emotion-al and physical burnouts” that forced her to step back from work for extended periods of time in order to recover. The result of these experiences is her keen awareness of the importance of personal care while doing this work.
The author discusses many strategies for preventative self-care and included many examples of where to find such work. Having also worked with more extroverted social justice groups, Cheng-Tozun discuss-es the different dynamics of such groups, how they can support each other while doing their work and challenges they face.
For perspective, Cheng-Tozun discusses the lives of several well-known activists like Desmond Tutu, Nelson Mandela, Ghandi, Thoreau, and others. Her message: “We are all more effective advocates of change when we balance one another.” (59)
The author pairs each chapter with related quotations by social justice activists from different centuries. The book has an extensive Appendix and Notes citing sources. 

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Questions/ comments are welcomed.  Please contact Lois Loeffler, chair of the Library Committee, at loisloeffler@gmail.com.