Alfred H. Kurland Explores Youth Citizenship in “The Soul of Adolescence Aligns with the Heart of Democracy”

The London Book Fair 2026, taking place from March 10–12 at the Olympia London, will feature “The Soul of Adolescence Aligns with the Heart of Democracy: Orphans, Rebels and Civic Lovers Unite” by Alfred H. Kurland. Showcased by The Maple Staple at Stand 6A100, the memoir chronicles Kurland’s lifelong dedication to empowering youth and fostering civic engagement in communities across New York City.

Through defining moments in his life, such as the tragic loss of a roommate to street violence in Washington Heights, Kurland demonstrates how meaningful teen participation guided by empathy and social awareness can help young people reach their full potential while strengthening communities. Each chapter reflects pivotal experiences that shaped his innovative approach to youth advocacy and human services.

Alfred H. Kurland has spent nearly three decades as an organizer and institutional pathfinder dedicated to teen empowerment. He began by launching grassroots programs in Washington Heights and later led NYC’s Teens on Community Boards initiative, a campaign that successfully changed New York State law to allow vetted sixteen- and seventeen-year-olds to serve on community boards. For the past 3 years he has been a lead organizer in support of proposed NY State Law that when passed would lower the age to 16 for New York City and New York State elections. He holds a B.A. in Political Science from York College/CUNY and an M.A. in Education from New York University. His contributions have been recognized by the Petra Foundation, The Brooke Russell Astor Foundation, and the Greater NY Boy Scout Council’s Silver Beaver Award.

The latter part of Kurland’s memoir explores the growing movement for youth civic participation. For more information, readers are encouraged to visit vote16nyc-nys.com and www.vote16usa.org, two websites central to the advocacy work highlighted in his book.

Returning to the London Book Fair for the third consecutive year, The Maple Staple will showcase Kurland’s memoir alongside a curated selection of independent titles that celebrate socially impactful storytelling and youth empowerment.

Visitors can explore “The Soul of Adolescence Aligns with the Heart of Democracy: Orphans, Rebels and Civic Lovers Unite” at The Maple Staple, Stand 6A100, during the London Book Fair. The book is also available on Amazon and other major online retailers worldwide.

About The Maple Staple:

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At The Maple Staple, books come alive beyond mere pages. It’s more than a bookstore—it’s a community hub for book enthusiasts and budding authors. Celebrating diversity, they curate books from up-and-coming independent writers, and offer a platform to underrepresented voices. With captivating events and book clubs in the heart of Toronto, they foster a vibrant literary community, igniting inspiration and transformation through the enchanting power of words.

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