How do rural communities revitalize and sustain themselves? Drs. Laurie Brinklow (UPEI) and Ryan Gibson launched a new book focused on this just. The new book, From Black Horses to White Steeds: Building Community Resilience, was launched during the Different by Design: Innovation for Rural Prosperity conference in Nelson, British Columbia.

From Black Horses to White Steeds celebrates and critiques the dynamics of innovation, governance, and culture in place. Case studies from both sides of the North Atlantic illustrate episodes of “turning around”: evolution, transformation, and visionary strategy that breathe new life into the term “think global, act local.” The book offers a narrative focused on the strength of local initiatives, the impacts of collective power, and re-envisioning local assets. They explore how various “dark horses” including minorities, small towns, peripheries, Aboriginal communities, those with little money, status, voice, or political leverage can rise to the occasion and chart livable futures.

Further information about the book can be found at http://ruraldev.ca/from-black-horses-to-white-steeds-building-community-resilience/. The book is published by Island Studies Press. Further information on the book and ordering can be found on the Island Studies Press website: www.upei.ca/isp.