Description

**Instant New York Times Bestseller**

A sharp, insightful blend of self-improvement and political call to action, this book is essential for anyone who wants to make a difference but isn’t sure where to begin.

With the current state of politics, it’s easy to feel powerless—endlessly scrolling through bad news, feeling isolated, and lacking a sense of purpose. The challenges facing American democracy can seem overwhelming, leaving many to wonder if their efforts will ever matter.

At this critical point in history, Emily Amick, a lawyer and former counsel to Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, joins forces with New York Times bestselling author and Betches Media cofounder Sami Sage to present a fresh perspective on civic engagement. Rather than viewing it as a burden, they encourage readers to see it as an act of self-care—an affirmation of personal values and self-respect. This book goes beyond simply urging people to vote; it’s about finding your unique role in shaping your country and community.

Featuring inspiring real-life stories, interactive exercises, and insightful quizzes, *Democracy in Retrograde* serves as a personalized roadmap to civic participation, helping readers:

– Identify their core values and passions
– Understand how government functions to make change more accessible
– Align their personality, skills, resources, and interests with impactful actions in their community
– Implement meaningful changes, both big and small
– Create a sustainable, authentic civic life—whether they have only a few minutes to spare or are ready to commit long-term

This book offers more than just guidance on political involvement—it provides a transformative way to understand yourself and your place in the world. By bridging the personal and the political, *Democracy in Retrograde* empowers readers to take action. As Joan Baez famously said, “Action is the antidote to despair.” And with this invaluable guide, even when Mercury is in retrograde, democracy doesn’t have to be.