The best books about political organizing can be divided into two categories: those that focus on the mechanics of organizing and those that focus on the theory behind it.
The former category includes books like Marshall Ganz’s “Organizing for Power,” which lays out a step-by-step guide to building a successful campaign. Another helpful book in this category is Becky Bond and Zack Exley’s “Rules for Revolutionaries,” which provides a toolkit for activists looking to make change.
The latter category of books includes works like Frances Fox Piven and Richard Cloward’s “Poor People’s Movements,” which examines the history of successful grassroots organizing and draws lessons for the present. For a more contemporary take, check out Naomi Klein’s “The Shock Doctrine,” which looks at the ways in which disaster capitalism has been used to quash popular uprisings.
No matter which category you’re interested in, there’s a book out there that can help you become a more effective political organizer. So get reading and get organizing!