Books for Causes

“The pen is mightier than the sword” is a phrase we have heard a thousand times. Author Edward Bulwer-Lytton first coined the phrase in 1839 but variations of this saying go back to 406 B.C., possibly even further.

Many successful authors often put this saying into action. Using their popularity and gift with words, they will donate all or a portion of their profits from book sales to a charity that is close to their hearts. These donations go beyond contributions that are made from annual earning. A specific book is written not to make an author more money, but to entertain readers and raise funds for worthy causes.

If you are looking for a good book to read or trying to come up with your Summer reading list, perhaps some of these books will grab your attention. It is an excellent opportunity to do something you enjoy and help make the world a better place.

Biographies

A Journey, By Tony Blair

Tony Blair’s memoir about his time as the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. Blair donates all of his profits to The Royal British Legion which provides financial, social and emotional support to those who have served or are serving in the British Armed Forces, and their families.

Notes From My Travels, By Angelina Jolie

This book contains journal excerpts that highlight Angelina Jolie’s experiences as she traveled to impoverished areas of the world as a Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. UNHCR receives all of Angelina Jolie’s profits to help them support and protect refugees.

Children's Books

I Am A Pole (And So Can You!), By Stephen Colbert

This children’s book tells the story of a pole finding his purpose in life. All proceeds from the book go to USVETS. This nonprofit‘s mission is to transition military veterans and their families from service to civilian life by providing housing, counseling, career development and comprehensive support.

Don’t Forget, God Bless Our Troops, by Jill Biden

Natalie’s father leaves for war. While he is away, she finds ways to help with her feelings of him not being home and helping other troops who are also away from their families. All the author’s profits will be donated to charities that support military families.

Nonfiction

The Golden Hat: Talking Back to Autism

This book is a compilation of first words, poems, and revelations from children who were told they were severely autistic and would be unable to communicate with the people around them. All author proceeds from this book go directly to the Golden Hat Foundation. Their mission is the establishment of innovative campuses that offer people with autism the opportunity to learn, to communicate, receive an education, job training and enjoy recreational activities, all within a supportive social network.

Autism Heroes: Portraits of Families Meeting the Challenge, by Barbara Firestone

Dr. Firestone shows us the real life experiences of 38 individuals facing the challenges of autism. Royalties from this book go to The Help Group, which serves children with special needs related to autism spectrum disorders, learning disabilities, ADHD, developmental delays, abuse and emotional problems.

Our Choice: A Plan to Solve the Climate Crisis, By Al Gore

A follow up to “An Inconvenient Truth”, this time the book gives us the solution to the climate crisis. It inspires readers to take action by showing us the steps we can take today to solve global warming. This book is printed on 100% recycled paper and all the profits go to the Alliance for Climate Protection.

American Grown: The Story of the White House Kitchen Garden and Gardens Across America, by Michelle Obama

Michelle Obama shares her experience as a novice gardener. Along with vivid pictures, this book contains recipes by the White House chefs and tips for planting your own backyard, school or community garden from the White House garden team. The proceeds from this book are donated to the National Park Foundation.

Young Adult

The Tales of Beedle The Bard, By J.K. Rowling

The Tales of Beddle The Bard was referenced in the Harry Potter series and given to Hermione upon Dumbledore’s death. J.K. Rowling has written the 5 short stories that were in this book for Harry Potter fans to read. The proceeds from this book go toLumos, which is dedicated to transforming the lives of disadvantaged children by facilitating the end of institutional care for good.

Quidditch Through The Ages/Fantastic Beasts And Where To Find Them, By J.K. Rowling

These two books are set in the world of Harry Potter. Written as if they were for the wizards in her magical world and read by our heroes, 80% of the cover price goes to Comic Relief. This money is used to help poor children all around the world.

“Quidditch Through The Ages” gives us the history of Quidditch along with older magic broom games.

“Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them” is a Magizoology textbook and describes 75 species found around the world. These books also contain notes by Harry, Ron and Hermione.

If you know of other books that donate a significant portion of its profits to a charity, leave a comment and let others know.