The Power of Days

A Story of Resilience, Dignity, and the Fight for Women's Equity

By: Celeste Mergens

Narrated by: Celeste Mergens

In 2008, Celeste Mergens was working with an overcrowded orphanage on the outskirts of Nairobi, Kenya, when she learned that menstruating girls sat on cardboard in their rooms for several days each month.

This set into motion a simple idea—combining a washable, long-lasting pad with taboo-breaking education—that became a catalyst for an unlikely global movement for equity.

Written in short, evocative chapters, The Power of Days tells the story of Mergens's quest to rally a global response to elevate menstrual health, increase universal access to menstrual supplies, shatter stigma through education, and advocate for global policy change. Raised in poverty by a mentally ill parent, Mergens learned early on that building the life she wanted would take equal parts determination and humility, traits that led her to create the kinds of inclusive conversations and solutions she is known for around the globe.

The challenges Mergens faced and the lessons she learned, personally and professionally, and the triumphs and resourcefulness of leaders all over the globe are illuminating to all who wish to make a difference and create a more equitable world.

This enhanced audio recording features an audio-exclusive Q&A between Days for Girls cofounders Celeste and Don Mergens.

©2023 Celeste Mergens (P)2023 HighBridge, a division of Recorded Books

So inspirational and a great catalyst for action!

Her story is one of survival, of inspiration and triumph. One person can truly change the world!

Absolutely Inspirational

Dreams do come true! Celeste’s journey is one of hope, light and determination. I’m so grateful she shared The Days for Girls story with us.

THIS US A MUST READ FOR THE WHOLE WORLD

I like that the author narrates the audio. It was a hard story to put together because she weaves in her own life story, but she does it masterfully!!

Beyond Inspiring! The perfect mix of beautiful story telling & Reachable Motivation

Every story was gripping! The perfect weave of real life stories & heartfelt reminder that we aren’t our circumstances. I left feeling empowered to do good and to better recognize that even the biggest challenges I face can be my most beautiful lessons. It is remarkable to listen to the tremendous impact of a willing heart! Wow!!! A MUST read. I’m already ready to listen to it again.

This is the kind of book you can’t put down.

Amazing story of resilience and overcoming challenges. Now over 3 million women and girls helped world wide! It’s a must read!

An Important Book

It is shocking to us to be made aware of the horrific struggles of peoples who live in communities and cultures so very different from our own. I love that the author’s personal tag is gratitude. I am certain that anyone who has been given such a rich opportunity to count for others would naturally become immeasurably grateful. I am grateful to her for her remarkable fruitfulness and her well considered book to tell the story. God’s rich blessing is shining off every page.

Powerful Story of the Why

I have had an opportunity to support and do work with Days to include putting together kits. The story helps connect the passion and mission around why this work and education is so important. I am in awe with the women who take the time to sew and find unique material to put together for these young women. It’s important and necessary work!

If you read one book this year, it must be this one! Don’t miss the message and the hope I’m The Power or Days!

Audible is the best way to capture Celeste’s book and message, though you’ll want to read it also to highlight favorites stories and quotes.
Celeste brilliantly shares her own survival story which served as a foundation for her unique and exceptional world-changing work to come.
You will be shocked and saddened to learn of “menstrual poverty,” a term I’d never heard before, but I guarantee by the time you’ve read or listened to the book, you’ll want to loudly cheer for the heroines, the courage of young girls and women everywhere, who push past stigma, shame and abuse and find more hope, confidence, and future opportunities they’ve never dreamed we’re possible!!
This cause needs all of the exposure, support, and funds/volunteer work we can offer. You will want and need to become involved because it affects millions of people and can change lives forever. Every one of us can make a difference for good.
After learning of the need for menstrual equity, you will naturally feel promoted, motivated and inspired to get involved with Days for Girls, or another important cause that can make this world a better place.
It has my highest recommendation.
Every girl. Everywhere. Period.

A must read for everyone who menstruates!

After being involved with Days for Girls for the past many years, this long awaited book deepened my commitment to the project and the people we serve. While I've heard Celeste speak on many occasions, this book filled in the gaps, and while I have heard many of the stories before, hearing them in her voice made it all the more special. I laughed and cried, and felt each emotion as Celeste recounted not only her story, but the story of Days for Girls. In the US, we take disposable menstrual products for granted and don't often think about the women who have no access, no money, no education, and no hope. This book brings it all together. And now I must get back to sewing for Days for Girls.

A true story of Triumph Over Tragedy

Celeste is an incredible woman who knows how to follow her inner compass. She is such a great example on how to rise above the challenges and trials we face in life and thrive in the face of adversity. Her life experiences prepared her for the work she would do with Days For Girls and the countless women and girls she has helped. I loved hearing her story and felt truly inspired.