On Belonging: Finding Connection in an Age of Isolation

On Belonging, by Kim Samuel, is an exploration of the meaning of belonging and how to find it in an age of isolation. 

In a world where loneliness and alienation are reaching crisis levels, On Belonging by Kim Samuel makes a powerful case that belonging is a fundamental right.

The book examines belonging through four essential dimensions:

People – The relationships that shape us and sustain our well-being.
Place – Our rootedness in nature and the spaces we call home.
Power – The ability to influence economic and political systems that impact our lives.
Purpose – The search for meaning and the desire to contribute to something greater than ourselves.

Through powerful storytelling, global insights, and a bold vision for the future, On Belonging invites readers to rethink what it means to belong—not just as a personal experience but as a fundamental right for all.

Endorsements

“Kim Samuel has dedicated her entire life to ending isolation. Now with her lucidly written new book, On Belonging, she is showing the world that the keys to happiness are not ego-driven isolation or artificially imposed divisions, but mutuality, reciprocity, and relationships.” — Satish Kumar, editor emeritus, Resurgence & Ecologist
“As we step gently together toward a future that contains a great deal of uncertainty—the need to belong feels more important than ever. In this book, Kim Samuel brings together interviews with an incredible group of humans, all coming from different places but who collectively strive to come together in meaningful ways.” — Kluane Adamek, Yukon Regional Chief, Assembly of First Nations, Canada
“Through powerful storytelling and analysis, this book helps us turn our focus to what really matters.” — Wade Davis, explorer and bestselling author
“We can’t live without human connection. This book shows how we can all overcome the disconnection and reawaken the beauty. Read this book, y’all!” — Quincy Jones, legendary recording artist
“This is an important book, both for describing a problem that is fundamental yet often neglected, and for proposing meaningful and effective solutions.” — Kenneth Roth, executive director of Human Rights Watch
“In this important book, Kim Samuel explores how we can find greater emotional, intellectual, ecological, and spiritual connectedness. On Belonging shows how we can help every person know their worth and share what they have to give.” — Graça Machel, founder, Graça Machel Trust and former First Lady of South Africa and Mozambique
“Kim Samuel has dedicated her entire life to ending isolation. Now with her lucidly written new book, On Belonging, she is showing the world that the keys to happiness are not ego-driven isolation or artificially imposed divisions, but mutuality, reciprocity, and relationships.” — Satish Kumar, editor emeritus, Resurgence & Ecologist
“As we step gently together toward a future that contains a great deal of uncertainty—the need to belong feels more important than ever. In this book, Kim Samuel brings together interviews with an incredible group of humans, all coming from different places but who collectively strive to come together in meaningful ways.” — Kluane Adamek, Yukon Regional Chief, Assembly of First Nations, Canada
“Through powerful storytelling and analysis, this book helps us turn our focus to what really matters.” — Wade Davis, explorer and bestselling author
“We can’t live without human connection. This book shows how we can all overcome the disconnection and reawaken the beauty. Read this book, y’all!” — Quincy Jones, legendary recording artist
“This is an important book, both for describing a problem that is fundamental yet often neglected, and for proposing meaningful and effective solutions.” — Kenneth Roth, executive director of Human Rights Watch
“In this important book, Kim Samuel explores how we can find greater emotional, intellectual, ecological, and spiritual connectedness. On Belonging shows how we can help every person know their worth and share what they have to give.” — Graça Machel, founder, Graça Machel Trust and former First Lady of South Africa and Mozambique