In Search of Common Ground: Inspiring True Stories of Overcoming Hate in a Divided World

"2022 Foreword INDIES Silver Winner

2022 OWL Award Longlist—Community Read



"In Search of Common Ground: Inspiring True Stories of Overcoming Hate in a Divided World by Bastian Berbner profiles unlikely friendships formed across stark divides, including a neo-Nazi and his Black parole officer and a German couple and their Roma neighbors."

"We put one of the stories from this book onto our show because Bastian’s mission is so refreshing and original, and he’s such a thoughtful, empathetic storyteller. At this moment, when it feels like the whole world is retreating deeper and deeper into competing camps who don’t listen to each other, it’s exciting to read about anyplace doing the opposite—and thrilling to have a whole book of them." Ira Glass, host of This American Life

"I was immediately drawn to the way Berbner relies on storytelling to bridge divides. It is heartening to read a book that understands we need to build trust to find real solutions to the issues we are facing around the world. One of the most critical elements of radical empathy is taking action to create change—and this book provides a path for doing just that." Terri Givens, author of Radical Empathy