Surrender by Bono

I have shelves full of books on international development. Most of them are a little dry.

Certainly none of them have me drumming along on the steering wheel or dancing in my seat.

Admittedly, that’s not the point of those books. But it sure is a nice bonus that comes with Bono’s new book “Surrender”.

This memoir captures not only the story of the rise, falls, and returns to glory of his band U2; but also the stories behind Bono’s involvement in global issues and some of the strange paths he’s traveled.

Even if you don’t like the music (which is borderline inexcusable in my view) there is plenty here for those who care about hunger, debt relief, HIV/AIDS, and justice. Glimpsing behind the scenes in the halls of political and corporate power, as well as the dry fields and overwhelmed hospitals of the majority world, provides insights well worth the cost of the book.

Bono’s interactions with entertainment elites, grassroots organizers, heads of state, and people who have never heard him sing reveal a man who is both bold and chastened. He explains some of his big mistakes, shares why he doesn’t regret some of the things he has been most criticized for, and describes the tensions of being incredibly wealthy while advocating for the poorest of the poor. His expression of his abiding, if unorthodox, faith permeates throughout.

I highly recommend getting this as an audiobook. Bono’s own voice, with his Irish lilt and his mimicry of the voices of many of his famous co-conspirators add immensely to the experience of the book. And each chapter is accompanied by a recording of the song that shares its title.

It’s not too late to get this for yourself or a colleague for the holidays.

In fact; I will personally reimburse the first 2 people who send me a copy of their receipt for buying the book after this post goes live. My little gift to you.

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