What We’re Reading: The Art of Gathering

by Andrew Downing

As a society, we underappreciate the value of meeting and congregating for a purpose. We take gatherings for granted, which is why The Art of Gathering, by Priya Parker is my favorite book recommendation of the year. 

Parker is a facilitator, an advisor, and an expert in conflict resolution. She has planned vital meetings all over the world, including peace talks in the Middle East and conversations about race on college campuses. Her website (priyaparker.com) leads with the tagline “Helping people create collective meaning in modern life, one gathering at a time,” and her book does not disappoint.
The Art of Gathering points out the most common mistakes leaders make when planning meetings and explains how to make every meeting count. Parker gives suggestions for making a guest list, setting guidelines, facilitating a productive atmosphere, injecting purpose, discussing controversies, and leaving a lasting impression. After reading The Art of Gathering, I’m seeing gatherings from a new perspective and looking forward to planning my next meeting.