Dear Friend,

I wrote Giving to profile inspirational people who are giving back in ways both large and small, and having an amazing impact on the lives of others as a result. As we approach this holiday season, I hope that my book will serve as a blueprint for everyone --- regardless of income, available time, age and skills --- on the different ways you can get involved and make a difference, either in your own neighborhood or half a world away.

I'm honored that you are considering Giving for your reading group and I hope that you enjoy reading it as much as I enjoyed writing it.

Best wishes for a safe and happy holiday season.

Sincerely,

Bill Clinton

1. In which ways are you already working to help and to give? Do you know someone who is giving their time and skills to a great cause?

2. Can you identify any problems in your own neighborhood? What steps can you take to help?

3. Identify a global problem that most troubles you. Can you think of three simple, achievable ways to make a difference?

4. Which story of giving do you find most inspiring? Why?

5. In response to Chapter Four, "Giving Things," what can you spare that can be used elsewhere?

6. What skills do you possess that might be worth sharing with someone in need?

7. What are some easy steps you'd be willing to take to reduce your energy usage or the amount of waste you produce?

8. How can your individual contribution of time or money be multiplied by judicious partnerships?

9. How did reading all of these stories of giving make you feel?

10. Now that you have read so many stories about why people give, recall that many more people choose not to give. What are some reasons not to give, and how can these reasons be surmounted?

11. What are your reasons for giving?