Human stories, shared live.

What if you could borrow a person instead of a book? In this unique experience, you won't just read a book, you'll borrow a person. Our "Books" are individuals from diverse walks of life who open up about their lived experiences, inviting you into real, honest, and empathetic conversations that challenge assumptions and break stereotypes.

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A small-group dialogue unfolding at a Living Stories Collective event.

01 / JOIN OUR EVENT

Upcoming sessions

Browse upcoming events and RSVP

02 / AT EVENT

How It Works

Our simple process creates meaningful connections through personal storytelling.

Our process builds connection through personal storytelling.

Living Book profiles pinned to a blue display board at an event.

STEP 1

Borrow a Living Book

Choose from real people who volunteer to share their lived experiences - a refugee, a former addict, someone who has experienced homelessness, or a person living with disabilities.

STEP 2

Have a Conversation

Engage in a 30-minute open dialogue in a safe, respectful environment where questions are encouraged.

Participants seated around a table during a Living Stories Collective conversation circle.

A Living Book conversation underway at a community event.

Two participants engaged in an intimate Living Book conversation.

A participant riding home at night after a Living Stories Collective session.

STEP 3

Return with a Changed Perspective

Return with new insights, challenged assumptions, and a deeper understanding of diverse experiences.

03 / FEEDBACK

What People Say

Short quotes plus aggregate event insights from participant forms.

QUOTE · LISTENER

"One such experience I will cherish for the rest of my life."

Participants repeatedly described this about their experience.

QUOTE · LISTENER

"Every story we heard changed our perception of society."

Empathy toward others became the biggest takeaway.

LISTENERS VOICE

What stayed with people

One reflection appeared repeatedly in participant responses.

LISTENER

"Empathy was my biggest takeaway."

Perspective shift

76%

significant

somewhat

Rated 4 or 5 93.0%

WHAT PEOPLE OPENED UP ABOUT

Participants reflected on a diverse set of topics such as current issues, addiction, mental health, gender, LGBTQ+, culture, and everyday social prejudice.

04 / GET INVOLVED