Magic Mirror: A Modern Fable That Teaches Positionality

Magic Mirror is more than just a book; it’s an exploration of how we see ourselves and the world around us. Rooted in the concept of positionality, this modern fable invites readers on a journey of discovery through the lens of a character named Mira. But before we delve deeper into the story itself, let’s explore the inspiration behind the book, the themes it tackles, and the impact I hope it has on its readers.

Available in ebook, paperback, and hardback. Audible version coming soon.  Want to support your local bookstores? Ask them to order the book through their distributor.

What Is Positionality?

At its core, positionality is the understanding that who we are—our identities, experiences, and perspectives—shapes how we see and interact with the world. It also influences how the world sees and interacts with us. Magic Mirror uses this concept as a foundation to examine how biases and ideologies form, and how they connect to the larger systems we navigate daily.

Why Write a Fable?

Fables have a timeless quality. They distill complex ideas into simple, relatable stories that linger in the mind long after the last page. I wanted Magic Mirror to be accessible to a broad audience—from professionals seeking to build more inclusive workplaces to individuals reflecting on their personal growth. By using Mira’s journey, I could illustrate challenging concepts like perception, power, and privilege in a way that feels approachable and thought-provoking.

The Story Behind the Story

The idea for Magic Mirror came from my consulting and speaking work. As someone deeply invested in helping people understand the interplay between individual experiences and systemic forces, I’ve often grappled with how to make these ideas resonate. Positionality is a critical concept but is often buried in academic language or abstract discussions. I saw an opportunity to breathe life into it through storytelling, creating an engaging narrative that allows readers to see themselves reflected in Mira’s experiences.

What’s in the Book?

Magic Mirror offers readers a multifaceted learning experience, blending storytelling with practical tools and insights:

  • The Positionality Prism: A framework that helps readers examine their own biases and the broader systems of privilege and oppression they interact with. Learn more.

  • Nine Practices: Actionable steps Mira learns and applies throughout her journey to foster understanding, growth, and connection. Learn more.

  • Examples of Success and Struggles: Realistic depictions of both triumphs and challenges, highlighting the messy but meaningful process of self-discovery.

  • Real-World Examples: Stories and scenarios that anchor the lessons of the book in relatable, everyday contexts.

  • Fun and Intrigue: Engaging storytelling elements that make learning about positionality an enjoyable and memorable experience.

  • A Unique Way to Learn: The book creates an immersive way to explore complex topics by embedding lessons in a fable.

  • Reflection and Discussion Guide: Thoughtful prompts at the end of the book encourage readers to reflect on what they’ve learned and discuss it with others. You can also purchase or download the companion workbook with even more questions! 

  • Glossary of Key Terms: A resource for understanding foundational concepts and terminology related to positionality and inclusion.

Who Is Mira?

Mira is the heart of Magic Mirror. Through her adventures, she gains the ability to embody others and view the world through their eyes. This unique power forces her to confront her own biases and assumptions, ultimately revealing the interconnectedness of our lives. Mira’s journey mirrors the internal work we all must do to better understand our positionality and its implications.

What I Hope Readers Take Away

Why Now?

We live in a time where understanding and addressing systemic inequities is more important than ever. Magic Mirror is my response to this moment—a tool for sparking conversations, challenging assumptions, and equipping readers with the insights needed to make a difference. By framing these lessons in the form of a fable, my goal is to reach a diverse audience and encourage them to see the world and themselves in new ways.

How to Engage with the Book

Magic Mirror is designed to be more than just a solitary read—it’s a resource for personal growth, team building, and community learning. Here are some ways to engage with the book:

By engaging with Magic Mirror in these ways, you can create lasting change in how you see yourself and interact with the world around you.

Join the Journey

Magic Mirror is more than just a book; it’s an invitation to reflect, grow, and act. Whether you’re new to the concept of positionality or deeply immersed in inclusion work, Mira’s story offers valuable insights and practical takeaways.

I’m excited to share this journey with you and can’t wait to hear how Magic Mirror resonates with your experiences. Let’s explore together what it means to truly see.

Meagan Pollock, PhD

Dr. Meagan Pollock envisions a world where personal and social circumstances are not obstacles to achieving potential, and where kindness, inclusivity, and conservation prevail.

An international speaker, teacher, engineer, and equity leader, her mission is to provide services, tools, and resources that inspire awareness and initiate action.

As an engineer turned educator, Meagan Pollock is focused on engineering equity into education and the workforce.

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