The Book of Common Ground
Polarization is one of the defining challenges of our time. Too often, conversations break down, and common ground feels out of reach. The Book of Common Ground is an experimental narrative tool designed to help people navigate differences and engage in meaningful dialogue.
At its heart, the project draws on the power of storytelling—particularly the universal language of fairytales. Using narrative techniques, it reframes complex societal divides in a way that is both accessible and engaging. Fairytales have long been a tool for making sense of the world, helping us grapple with moral dilemmas, cultural values, and the grey areas between right and wrong. By grounding discussions in the familiar structures of myth and folklore, the book aims to create a space where difficult conversations can take place more openly, free from entrenched political or ideological positions.
The concept was developed by Are We Europe and the Evens Foundation, using insights from Re-Imagine Europa and its R.E.F.R.A.M.E methodology, which applies psychology and semiotics to depolarise conversations.
Illustration and visual storytelling
Illustrations play a crucial role in The Book of Common Ground, bringing its themes to life with warmth and imagination. The book is illustrated by Clemens den Exter, a visual storyteller with experience in both traditional and digital media, including illustrations for Snapchat. Clemens combines a deep understanding of visual communication with a playful, thought-provoking style.
The Book of Common Ground is designed for use in homes, schools, workplaces, community settings, and anywhere people seek to engage across divides.
Publication
In 2024, the Evens Foundation "soft launched" the book at the European Parliament, with a free digital edition and soft-cover copies distributed to every sitting MEP.
In 2025, the printed edition will launch to the public, with events in Amsterdam and Brussels.
Polarization is one of the defining challenges of our time. Too often, conversations break down, and common ground feels out of reach. The Book of Common Ground is an experimental narrative tool designed to help people navigate differences and engage in meaningful dialogue.
At its heart, the project draws on the power of storytelling—particularly the universal language of fairytales. Using narrative techniques, it reframes complex societal divides in a way that is both accessible and engaging. Fairytales have long been a tool for making sense of the world, helping us grapple with moral dilemmas, cultural values, and the grey areas between right and wrong. By grounding discussions in the familiar structures of myth and folklore, the book aims to create a space where difficult conversations can take place more openly, free from entrenched political or ideological positions.
The concept was developed by Are We Europe and the Evens Foundation, using insights from Re-Imagine Europa and its R.E.F.R.A.M.E methodology, which applies psychology and semiotics to depolarise conversations.
Illustration and visual storytelling
Illustrations play a crucial role in The Book of Common Ground, bringing its themes to life with warmth and imagination. The book is illustrated by Clemens den Exter, a visual storyteller with experience in both traditional and digital media, including illustrations for Snapchat. Clemens combines a deep understanding of visual communication with a playful, thought-provoking style.
The Book of Common Ground is designed for use in homes, schools, workplaces, community settings, and anywhere people seek to engage across divides.
Publication
In 2024, the Evens Foundation "soft launched" the book at the European Parliament, with a free digital edition and soft-cover copies distributed to every sitting MEP.
In 2025, the printed edition will launch to the public, with events in Amsterdam and Brussels.