Great Reads and Views

Reviews and highlights from the REACT team of great books, in-depth articles, blogs, video clips, etc.

When Money Goes on Mission: Fundraising and Giving in the 21st Century

By Rob Martin

In spite of the good will and well-meaning intentions of givers - whom Rob Martin describes and honors in his book - the subtle power of the money-as-master paradigm has shaped how we think about, strategize, and prioritize our Kingdom relationships. No one knows better than Rob the agonies and joys of serving the global church from the angle of financial resourcing. He knows the mission field from the inside as much as any nonresident can. He has been diligent and intelligent in learning all he can from the people he serves on the field and at home. He book helps us return money back to its proper and God-honoring place in Christian mission, thinking and practice. It captures his wealth of knowledge and experience and converts it into an essential tool to help to help us rethink and reshape our mission service.

~Alexandre Araujo, REACT Consultant; skilled specialist in bridging multi-cultural dynamics

The Starfish and the Spider

By Ori Brafman and Rod Beckstrom

What I consider to be the best 21st Century prism for new partnering patterns and platforms. Assists us in understanding the nature of decentralized "starfish" movements and how to catalyze them. Uses the examples of Wikipedia, Skype and other corporate models, but it is just as easily transferable to the world of non-profits as well. An absolute must read.

~Brian O'Connell, CEO, REACT Services

Group Genius: The Creative Power of Collaboration

By Keith Sawyer

Though most would likely view creativity as an individual gift, Sawyer demonstrates that to be a myth. In reality, invention and creativity always originate in or through collaboration. From improv comedy to Gore Tex and Whole Foods, this book is full of examples where collaboration led to innovation and success. Ultimately, we all have the power and potential to be more creative, we just need to learn how to work together better to achieve it! This book is one of the staples for REACT's work in cross cultural settings where relationships are so fundamental.

~Brian O'Connell, CEO, REACT Services