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But What Can I Do?

Why Politics Has Gone so Wrong, and How You Can Help Fix It

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But What Can I Do?

By: Alastair Campbell
Narrated by: Alastair Campbell
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About this listen

Brought to you by Penguin.

'Your country needs you. Your world needs you. Your time is now.'

Our politics is a mess. We have leaders who can't or shouldn't be allowed to lead. We endure governments that lie, and seek to undermine our democratic values. And we are confronted with policies that serve the interests of the privileged few. It's no surprise that so many of us feel frustrated, let down and drawn to ask, 'But what can I do?'

That question is the inspiration behind this book. It's a question regularly posed to Alastair Campbell, not least in reaction to The Rest is Politics, the chart-topping podcast he presents with former Tory Cabinet minister Rory Stewart. His answer, typically, is forthright and impassioned. We cannot afford to stand on the sidelines. If we think things need to change, then we need to change them, and that means getting involved.

But What Can I Do? provides each of us with the motivation and the tools to make a difference. It explains how we can develop our skills of advocacy and persuasion. It draws on Alastair's long experience to offer practical tips on putting together and leading a campaign team. It provides priceless advice on developing confidence and coping with criticism and setbacks. And it sets out the practical steps by which we can become political players ourselves.

Part call to arms, part practical handbook, But What Can I Do? will prove required listening for anyone who wants to make a difference.

©2023 Alastair Campbell (P)2023 Penguin Audio
Elections & Political Process Leadership Management & Leadership Personal Development Personal Success Politics & Government United States World Business Thought-Provoking Inspiring

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What listeners say about But What Can I Do?

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A beautifully crafted and inspiring read.

Down to Earth, practical but inspiring book about how anyone can become politically active and make a positive contribution to making a better Britain.

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Inspired me to keep going.

There will be many people who will write a more eloquent review and I. I’ll leave that to them. All I can say is this is a book anyone and everyone needs to read/listen to and to be read to. We need you to!

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Honest and inspirational

This is a reminder that I have the time to make the change I want to see, a hope that I will be sharing with all those much younger than me.

The book is honest, at times brutal, funny and inspiring. I would encourage anyone to listen to this book but especially the young.

In his rule, Benedict of Nursia said, "The reason why we have said all should be called for counsel is that the Lord often reveals what is better to the younger." Let the young have a voice and encourage them to speak it in the political forum.

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Hope restored - in anticipation

Although this book is aimed at a younger generation (and therefore “what can I do” isn’t aimed directly at me at 62!), I was so inspired. It has given me a level of hope for the future that has lifted my spirits. Alistair is spot on, we must all encourage the young people who can and will change our country for the better - I will be recommending this read to family, friends and colleagues to pass on the ‘perseviliance’ - a word I am going to live by too!

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Entering politics late in life.

Alastair I found this publication very interesting.
I feel there is an opportunity to emphasise the importance of local government as being the life’s ambition to get into politics.
I am 62 and I won my first election in May 2023.
I find local politics relevant, frustrating and exhilarating all at the same. Keep fighting all the fights we are making a difference. Murrae

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A very humane book

Politics needs ambassadors like this,. A very engaging read and let’s us hear the authors journey to his conclusions.

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Truly inspirational and motivational!

Thank you Alastair, for writing this book. Everyone should read and understand this book and then consider what they can contribute, large or small to help improve politics. Thanks again.

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Excellent read

Thought-provoking book, I feel everyone should give it a listen or read. 10 out of 10

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Insightful

A well crafted read with so many pearls of insight and wisdom. A real pleasure to listen to and be absorbed by. Thank you

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Turns out you can do much more than you thought!

I thought the book would launch straight into self help advice about what one can do to help effect change in society. I should have known better! This is Alastair Campbell.

The first section is a reinforcer as to how and why there is a need for both awareness and activation in relation to the troika of Polarity, Populism and Post Truth (3 P's). The author writes and reads with his head and heart. So while you should expect a heartfelt explanation of the exploitation of the 3 P"s by cynical self interested leaders ,including some of the UK's very own, you should also find balance and respect for leaders from across the political spectrum who are acknowledged for their many fine values including "persevilience" (Mr Campbell's new word) in upholding the rule of law and democracy.

"But what can I do" then takes the listener into practical steps offering advice on how one can help fix and get involved. The great thing about these sections is that they draw on previous Campbell , writings ,work and insights, so we have hints and tips on areas such as teamship, leadership, formulating strategies and better mental health.

This book is authentic and carries weight on Audible because it is read by Mr Campbell .

Whatever your passion or political persuasion have a read or a listen.

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7 people found this helpful