Content Warning: This article discusses themes of authoritarianism, systemic racism, and social injustice, which may be sensitive to some readers.
Throughout history, literature has had the power to shape societies, provoke thought, and ignite change. From powerful novels to poignant poetry, the written word has served as a catalyst for social movements, challenging norms and shedding light on issues that often go unnoticed. As the world faces an ever-evolving set of challenges, literature continues to be a beacon for progress, influencing policy, inspiring action, and fostering empathy. In this expert roundup, we explore how some of the world’s best literary works are driving social change, offering a unique perspective on how books can inspire a more just and equitable world.
Embrace Narrative Judo
Stories aren’t just entertainment—they’re survival. They help us process chaos, challenge power, and remind us we’re not alone. Sometimes, the best way to handle an overbearing boss is with a sharp metaphor and a well-timed joke.
In 2024, I directed “How We Buried Joseph Vissarionovich” (about Stalin) at Kamon-Kamon Theater in Belgrade, a co-production with New Roles Acting Academy. The audience? Migrants from authoritarian countries. Their reaction? Recognition. They saw their own “little dictators” in the characters—mid-level managers enforcing pointless rules, bosses ruling with paranoia. We’ve all met them.
When direct resistance is dangerous, storytelling steps in. Drama absorbs fear, letting people process oppression through characters and metaphor. It’s like group therapy—just with better lighting.
Hellmann’s study on dictatorship and collective memory shows how authoritarian regimes use narratives to keep control (Hellmann, O. (2020). The Dictator’s Screenplay: Collective Memory Narratives and the Legitimacy of Communist Rule in East Asia. Journal of Political Narratives, 15(2), 34-56.). Theater flips the script, offering a fresh way to see power—narrative judo, using the system’s weight against itself.
Aristotle called it catharsis—purging emotions through art. Orwell’s “Animal Farm” and Brecht’s “The Resistible Rise of Arturo Ui” show how satire makes power look ridiculous. And nothing deflates a dictator faster than laughter.
A key moment in “How We Buried Joseph Vissarionovich” captured this. The characters debate whether to speak honestly about their deceased leader or keep up the charade. One audience member later said, “It was like watching my office politics play out—but with Soviet uniforms.” Autocracy isn’t just about governments—it sneaks into offices, schools, and teams. Our play held up a mirror, helping the audience recognize these patterns.
Hellmann’s research shows that authoritarian leaders rely on myths to justify their rule (Hellmann, 2020). Theater shatters those myths, helping people reclaim their power—or at least understand why Dave from accounting enforces meeting agendas like a Cold War-era official.
Stories don’t just help us cope; they help us fight back—with humor, with insight, and with a sharp script. Because in the end, storytelling isn’t just about reflecting the world—it’s about rewriting it.
Dim Zenkov, Drama director, acting instructor, storytelling researcher, New Roles Acting Academy | Kamon-Kamon International Theatre
Experience ‘The Overstory’
Social change happens when people stop seeing an issue as distant and start feeling it as personal. The best books don’t lecture. They slip under your skin, reshape your thinking, and before you know it, you’re looking at the world differently.
A perfect example? “The Overstory” by Richard Powers. It’s a novel, but it rewires your brain like a philosophy class. At first, it’s just stories about different people. Then you start noticing a pattern—trees are the silent force driving everything. By the time you finish, cutting down a tree feels as jarring as knocking down a house. That shift is why this book turned casual readers into environmental activists. It doesn’t tell you to care. It makes not caring feel impossible.
Erin Hendricks, President and Owner, Sammy’s Milk
Immerse Yourself In Empathy
Stories don’t argue—they immerse. And once you’ve lived inside someone else’s world, you can’t go back to seeing it the same way.
Literature has always been the quiet architect of social change because it doesn’t tell people what to think—it makes them feel. It’s why fiction has done more for empathy than most debates ever could. Instead of presenting cold facts, a great story transports you into another reality, where injustice, struggle, and resilience aren’t abstract concepts but deeply personal experiences.
A powerful recent example? “Demon Copperhead” by Barbara Kingsolver. Inspired by “David Copperfield,” it reimagines Dickens’ critique of poverty in modern-day Appalachia, exposing the opioid crisis and systemic neglect in rural America. But it doesn’t do it through statistics—it does it through one unforgettable voice. By the time you’ve walked in Demon’s shoes, you don’t just understand the crisis—you feel its weight. And that’s what great storytelling does: it doesn’t push change. It makes you see the world differently—and once you do, you can’t unsee it.
Austin Benton, Marketing Consultant, Gotham Artists
Read ‘The Hate U Give’
Literature and storytelling have the profound ability to challenge societal norms and spark dialogue that leads to change by providing new perspectives and deep empathy for others’ experiences. Through the power of narrative, authors can illuminate issues that may have been otherwise overlooked or misunderstood, fostering a culture of understanding and tolerance. For example, literature can expose the intricacies of social injustice, enabling readers to see the world through the eyes of someone living within a different set of circumstances, which can be a compelling catalyst for social action and change.
Recent work that distinctly showcases this transformative power is “The Hate U Give” by Angie Thomas. This novel dives into the complexities of race and police violence through the perspective of a young African American protagonist, Starr Carter, who becomes an activist following the police shooting of her unarmed friend. The book not only made waves for its gripping narrative but also prompted discussions in schools and communities about race, equality, and justice, showcasing how storytelling can serve as a bridge to greater societal understanding and reform. This example underscores that when stories make personal connections with readers, they can indeed encourage meaningful social action and progression.
Alex Cornici, Writer, The Traveler
Confront ‘The Nickel Boys’
Literature and storytelling have always been powerful catalysts for social change by fostering empathy, challenging perspectives, and inspiring action. A compelling story can make abstract issues feel personal, leading readers to engage with topics they might otherwise overlook. Through relatable characters and immersive narratives, literature humanizes struggles, making them more pressing and tangible.
One recent work that exemplifies this power is “The Nickel Boys” by Colson Whitehead. Based on true events, the novel exposes the brutality of reform schools and the systemic racism that continues to shape institutions today. It doesn’t just tell a story—it forces readers to confront uncomfortable truths, sparking conversations about justice and accountability. Books like this serve as a bridge between past and present, encouraging reflection and activism. When a story resonates deeply, it moves beyond entertainment, driving real-world awareness and change.
Georgi Petrov, CMO, Entrepreneur, and Content Creator, AIG MARKETER
Read R.F. Kuang’s ‘Babel’
Storytelling and literature have always been a massive catalyst for championing public opinion, amplifying marginalized voices, and helping to enact social change. This pattern feeds off itself in many ways. Look at books like “To Kill a Mockingbird” and “1984.” They still have an impact on current political discourse, while more contemporary works like Angie Thomas’ “The Hate U Give” highlight issues of racial injustice and police brutality that are still all too relevant. Even more recently, look no further than R.F. Kuang’s “Babel,” which critiques colonialism through the lens of historical fantasy. By embedding social commentary within engaging narratives, literature encourages empathy and inspires action, proving that stories are one of the most powerful tools for societal transformation.
Dragos Badea, CEO, Yarooms
Read ‘The Ministry For The Future’
Literature and storytelling have always been powerful catalysts for social change. They shape perspectives, challenge biases, and ignite conversations that might otherwise be too uncomfortable to have. As the Founder of Nerdigital, I’ve seen firsthand how narratives—whether in marketing, branding, or social movements—have the power to shift mindsets and drive action.
One recent book that exemplifies this is “The Ministry for the Future” by Kim Stanley Robinson. It’s a gripping novel that blends fiction with harsh climate realities, painting a vivid picture of a future shaped by climate catastrophe—and the bold, often radical, steps needed to fight it. What makes it so powerful is its realism—it doesn’t just present an abstract, dystopian warning but instead offers tangible, well-researched solutions. After reading it, I found myself reconsidering my own role in sustainability, both personally and professionally.
The best stories don’t just inform; they evoke empathy and inspire action. Whether it’s a novel, a documentary, or even a well-crafted brand narrative, storytelling can cut through apathy and spark real-world change. In a digital landscape saturated with information, the most impactful voices are those that tell stories that matter.
Max Shak, Founder/CEO, nerDigital
Explore ‘The Soul Of An Octopus’
Literature and storytelling have a way of making issues feel personal, which is exactly why they’re such a powerful tool to drive social change. Facts and statistics are interesting but unlike a well-told story they don’t generally stick with people. In our industry, we see this all the time with ocean conservation. A documentary or a novel about marine life under threat can inspire someone to take action far more effectively than simply listing facts or quoting statistics. It’s all about creating that emotional connection.
A great example of this is “The Soul of an Octopus” by Sy Montgomery. It’s not just a book about marine biology, it’s a well-written story that makes you see octopuses in a whole new light. It makes you pause and rethink your beliefs about intelligence, emotions, and even our responsibility toward octopuses and marine life in general. Books like this don’t just inform, they shift perspectives, and that’s exactly what leads to real change.
Mohamed Moussa, Managing Director, Tornado Marine Fleet
Read ‘The Night Watchman’
Literature and storytelling have an incredible ability to drive social change because they tap into the emotional and human aspects of issues. Stories allow people to connect with experiences beyond their own, fostering empathy and understanding. They can challenge societal norms, shift perspectives, and spark conversations that might otherwise be difficult to have. Through compelling narratives, literature can bring attention to injustices, encourage people to question the status quo, and inspire collective action.
One recent example of this is the book “The Night Watchman” by Louise Erdrich. This novel, based on the true story of her grandfather’s fight to prevent the termination of Native American tribes in the 1950s, does more than just share history, it shines a light on systemic oppression and the ongoing struggles faced by Indigenous communities. Through its characters, it brings complex issues of identity, resilience, and resistance to the forefront in a way that is both personal and universal. It’s a powerful example of how literature can not only educate but also motivate readers to engage with issues of social justice.
Katie Breaker, Sales Director, BirdieBall
Tell A Story That Matters
Storytelling has long been a tool for change, and in the legal world, it’s no different. The power of a good story, especially one rooted in real human experience, can completely reshape how people see issues like justice, fairness, and reform. For me, one of the most influential works in recent years has been the book “Just Mercy” by Bryan Stevenson.
Would you rather stick to legal jargon or tell a story that cuts to the heart of the issue? Stevenson’s storytelling in “Just Mercy” humanizes the law, illustrating how a single case can reveal deep systemic injustices. It has inspired a generation of legal professionals to take a more compassionate approach in their work.
Literature like this can spark conversations and open minds. It’s a great example of how storytelling doesn’t just entertain; it can drive social change by inspiring action and shifting public perceptions.
Marcus Denning, Senior Lawyer, MK Law
Challenge Injustice With ‘Caste’
Why do people read books on subjects that can often be summarized by a Wikipedia article? Simple. Storytelling connects people to social issues in ways that facts and statistics alone cannot. My experience with this most recently was when I had the chance to check out Caste by Isabel Wilkerson, which examines racial and class structures through personal narratives and historical analysis. It isn’t every day that a book is able to frame the impact of systematic oppression in an accessible yet deeply impactful way. Literature like this doesn’t just inform—it moves people to question, challenge, and seek solutions to injustice.
Kate Kandefer, CEO, SEOwind
Explore ‘The Midnight Library’
Literature and storytelling have a unique ability to shift perspectives and challenge norms, sparking conversations that can lead to social change. They create emotional connections, opening people’s eyes to experiences beyond their own. A well-told story can humanize complex issues, making them more relatable and prompting action.
A recent piece that comes to mind is “The Midnight Library” by Matt Haig. It explores themes of mental health, regret, and the choices we make in life. Haig uses the narrative of a woman who can explore alternate realities to show how different decisions could have shaped her life. This story resonated with a lot of people, especially those dealing with feelings of regret and uncertainty, pushing readers to rethink their attitudes toward their own mental well-being and life choices. It’s a prime example of how literature can spark introspection and drive change in how we think about personal struggles and mental health.
Hugh Dixon, Marketing Manager, PSS International Removals
Read ‘To Kill A Mockingbird’
Stories propel justice. They reveal vice, change popular opinion, and bring about change. A powerful story makes one witness injustice personally, so he cares enough to do something. This influence doesn’t stop with books–it affects courtroom struggles, legislative changes, and public policy.
Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird put racial injustice within the legal framework under a microscope. Upton Sinclair’s The Jungle brought about food safety measures. Rustin, the new Netflix film about Bayard Rustin’s life, shines a light on a civil rights icon whose achievements have long been forgotten. Rustin was responsible for organizing the 1963 March on Washington, yet he was excluded from history books because he was openly gay and Black. The film sets the record straight, and that is the power of storytelling reclaiming justice even after many years.
The same holds true in personal injury law. Each case is a story–of negligence, of injury, of lives forever altered. A well-told case doesn’t merely ask for compensation; it asks for accountability. When juries are told these stories, they don’t read numbers on a settlement sheet. They read human pain, injustice, and the need for change.
The legal system isn’t merely about laws–it’s about people. And people are moved by stories.
Justin Lovely, Owner, Lovely Law Firm Injury Lawyers
Read ‘Educated’
Stories change how people see the world. Literature makes complex issues personal, turning statistics into lived experiences. One book that exemplifies this is “Educated” by Tara Westover. It highlights the transformative power of education, showing how knowledge can break cycles of ignorance and oppression. We see a similar impact when students, often doubting their potential, find a tutor who inspires them. Education is not just about learning facts. It is about reshaping futures. Literature like “Educated” proves that personal stories can do more than inform. They can ignite real social change by challenging beliefs and pushing for progress.
Tornike Asatiani, CEO, Edumentors
Read ‘Just Mercy’
I think literature and storytelling are powerful tools that can spark real social change. I have seen how a well-crafted narrative has the ability to shift perspectives, challenge norms, and create empathy. When people connect with characters and stories, they are more open to understanding different viewpoints and experiences. This understanding can be the first step toward addressing social issues.
I have seen some work that exemplifies this power, like “Just Mercy” by Bryan Stevenson. “Just Mercy” tells the story of Stevenson’s work as a lawyer defending wrongly convicted people on death row. Through vivid storytelling and compelling characters, the book exposes the injustices within the criminal justice system. I believe literature and storytelling have the ability to drive meaningful social change. “Just Mercy” is just one example of how these mediums can educate, inspire, and motivate us to take action.
Paul DeMott, Chief Technology Officer, Helium SEO
Read ‘Hidden Figures’
One powerful literary work that highlights women’s contributions throughout history is “Hidden Figures” by Margot Lee Shetterly. It tells the true story of Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson—three Black women mathematicians whose calculations were crucial to NASA’s early space missions. Despite working in a racially and gender-segregated environment, their brilliance helped launch astronauts into orbit and put a man on the moon.
What makes “Hidden Figures” so compelling is how it reframes history, showing that these women were not just supporting players but key figures in scientific progress. Their story is a reminder that women have always been at the heart of innovation, even when their contributions were overlooked. It’s a book that not only celebrates their achievements but also challenges the way we think about who gets credit for shaping history.
Hamzah Khadim, CEO & Co-Founder, Patient Logik
Explore Human Connection
Stories shape the way people think, feel, and act. Literature gives readers an intimate look into perspectives they might never experience otherwise, making complex issues feel personal. When a story connects emotionally, it sparks conversation, shifts opinions, and motivates action. Books, films, and even short-form social content have the power to challenge norms, expose injustice, and inspire change in ways facts alone often can’t.
“Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow” by Gabrielle Zevin does this brilliantly. It explores friendship, identity, and the struggles of creating art in a digital world. It highlights how technology connects and isolates, making readers reflect on how they interact online. It’s not just about gaming—it’s about human connection in an era where virtual and real-life relationships blur. That kind of storytelling leaves an impact.
Natalia Lavrenenko, UGC manager/Marketing manager, Rathly
Have Your Say
Alignment with the UN SDGs
- Promotes quality education (SDG 4) through storytelling
- Encourages reduced inequalities (SDG 10)
- Advances peace, justice, and strong institutions (SDG 16)
- Fosters sustainable communities (SDG 11)
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