Power in Coalition: Strategies for strong unions and social change

In this review of Power in Coalition, Amanda Tattersall offers a practical, experience-driven study aimed at union activists and community organisers seeking effective paths to social change. The book's single biggest strength is its clear examination of real coalition campaigns in Sydney, Toronto and Chicago, making it useful for readers who want tested strategies rather than abstract theory. This review finds the work most valuable for those involved in labour renewal and grassroots advocacy who need concrete lessons on coalition building.

Key Features

• Comparative case studies: Detailed examination of three campaigns gives readers concrete examples of what worked and why in different political contexts.
• Practical tactics: Focus on organising strategies that helped unions and community groups coordinate action and build broader support.
• Lessons on failure: The book explains common pitfalls that cause coalitions to collapse, helping readers avoid the same mistakes.
• Union renewal lens: Emphasises how coalitions can revitalise unions and reconnect them with communities for sustained organising.
• Cross-sector perspective: Draws on public education, health care and living wage campaigns to show transferable approaches across issues.

Who It's For

Power in Coalition is best for union organisers, community activists and campaign strategists who need case-based guidance on building alliances. Those working inside labour unions or community organisations will find the discussion of both organisational development and campaign tactics directly applicable to ontheground work.

The book is less suited to readers looking for broad political theory or a deep academic treatise; it intentionally focuses on practical examples and lessons from specific campaigns rather than exhaustive scholarly analysis.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Clear, actionable examples from three distinct coalition campaigns that illustrate transferable strategies.
• Focus on both successes and failures gives a balanced view useful for planning real campaigns.
• Practical emphasis on union renewal makes it a timely resource for organisers seeking rejuvenation.

Cons

• Not a comprehensive academic study; readers seeking dense theoretical frameworks may find it concise rather than exhaustive.

Specifications

Our Verdict

Power in Coalition is a practical, wellgrounded book for organisers who want actionable lessons from real campaigns. Its comparative case studies and focus on both successes and failures make it good value for anyone involved in labour or community organising who needs replicable strategies for coalition building and union renewal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the book include practical campaign examples?
Yes. It examines three specific campaigns in Sydney, Toronto and Chicago with an emphasis on tactics and outcomes.

Is this book theoretical or practical?
The emphasis is practical; Tattersall uses case studies to draw lessons for organisers rather than offering dense theory.

Who will benefit most from reading it?
Union organisers, community activists and campaign strategists seeking guidance on coalition building and organisational renewal will get the most value.