Book Review: Faith, Hope and Mischief (Tiny Acts of Rebellion) by Andrew Graystone

I had the pleasure of meeting Andrew Graystone at a Lent Zoom session I had organised for St George’s Stockport. Andrew was our speaker one evening and was a hugely engaging presenter with an array of stories demonstrating how he had helped others in simple and not-so-simple ways. The anecdotes demonstrated how small actions had changed the lives of individuals or communities. As the front cover of the book portrays, Andrew made headlines across social media in 2019, when he stood outside his own local mosque in Manchester with a poster saying “You are my friend. I will keep watch while you pray.” He was inspired to do this after hearing on the news about the brutal killing of several people in a mosque in Christchurch, New Zealand. Having spent some time in a deprived community in Adswood (part of my church parish) it was really pertinent to read about the fight for the retention of the local library which he had participated in!

With engaging storytelling and a no-nonsense approach, this book inspires the reader to reflect on their own beliefs and build a sense of curiosity and courage to embark on “small rebellions” and seek justice at all times.

The book is a wonderful mix of Andrew’s wisdom, humour and heartfelt desire to make the world a better place. I would thoroughly recommend it as a must-read for anyone thinking they cannot make a difference.

If anyone would like to listen to my chat with Andrew please check out the recording on YouTube.

Watch now on YouTube