Too many people write off those who don't share the 'right' views, preferring to live in their own echo chambers. In this artful and lively book, Nolan Finley and Stephen Henderson offer a guide, rooted in their own unlikely friendship, to how we can bridge political divides and find our shared humanity. Bravo.
~Ingrid Jacques, national opinion columnist, USA TODAY
At a critical time in our nation's history, Nolan Finley and Stephen Henderson show us the path toward civil and constructive political discourse. I know firsthand of the impact of the Civility Project to draw us away from reactionary attitudes and reductionist rationalizations. Nolan and Stephen challenge us to find common ground on a human level, one conversation at a time. Together, they renew our faith in democracy and in one another.
~Ora Hirsch Pescovitz, president, Oakland University
Finley and Henderson convey an important message that all Americans can make civil discourse a reality by providing us with the tools and examples needed to make it happen. This book should be required reading in high schools and universities.
~Michael Benedict, author of The Civil Society Playbook: A Commonsense Plan for a Return to Civility
In a clear and engaging way, Nolan, Stephen, and Lynne explain the need for and how to accomplish civility. Greater civility is a must for a brighter future in our society. This is not just a book to be read but a book to be lived.
~Rick Snyder, 48th governor of Michigan
Nolan Finley and Stephen Henderson have written an essential book for our times: a story of an unlikely friendship across partisan divides and, even more, a guide to learning and growing together even when we disagree. Civility and civic engagement are critical for our democracy.
~Santa J. Ono, president, University of Michigan
Civility is not dead! But it's bloodied, beaten, and mortally wounded. The arena of American politics has descended into racism, sexism, and xenophobia. Finger-pointing and name-calling have become our weapons. The chief motivation is to win, not to find answers to our common problems. This book gives us a pathway to reach what Abraham Lincoln called 'the better angels of our nature.' For years, Stephen Henderson and Nolan Finley have engaged in passionate debates over policy and politics, yet they have consistently refused to demonize each other. They are articulate examples of how to prioritize collaboration over conflict, dialogue over dismissal. If you're looking for justification to stand in your ideological corner and shout at your opponent, this book is not for you. But if you're looking for a way to bridge the deep divisions that continue to separate us, I urge you to read, study, and open yourself to the real-life solutions you'll find in these pages.
~Huel Perkins, Emmy award–winning news anchor, WJBK-TV from 1989–2022
Two veteran journalists from opposing ends of the political spectrum show us that meaningful dialogue across ideological divides isn't just possible—it's transformative. Through their groundbreaking work with the Civility Project and this practical guide, Nolan Finley and Stephen Henderson give us concrete tools to move beyond toxic polarization toward more productive conversations that strengthen the fabric of our society.
~Bridget McCormack, president and CEO, American Arbitration Association
Nolan and Stephen are like the old cartoon characters, Ralph Wolf and Sam Sheepdog. They pummel each other from nine to five, then punch out at the time clock and walk home with their lunch pails and their arms around each other. Please try it.
~Devin Scillian, news anchor, WDIV-TV from 1995–2024