Pages: 144 Price: $15.99 ISBN: 9780545047050
What makes this book different from other books written by teachers about their experiences? The answer is that the author, Linda Alston, successfully takes the reader on a journey of renewal and revitalization that leaves you eager to return to your students and share in their joy of learning.
Each chapter begins with an affirmation and tells a story about the author's life as a teacher and concludes with reflection and thought-provoking questions. Through her stories, she reminds us of the power of having a classroom learning environment that has order and beauty and of taking learning past the confines of the classroom and into the realm of real-world experiences and skills where the children are encouraged to be leaders, explorers, and good citizens.
Most of Linda's teaching was with young children from diverse backgrounds, many of whom grew up in poverty and experienced stressful challenges. She is the recipient of many teaching awards and honors; yet, she bravely presents the raw truth of her experiences, including the times that did not go well, in addition to the days of glory. Her honesty draws the reader closer to her as her stories unfold and yield insight and growth. Of particular value to teachers who read the book, are reminders to believe in yourself; trust that you make choices that can work; and, keep an open mind about the students and what they are doing, for there is often much more to learning than what we can see from the outside.
Teachers looking for classroom ideas will find the book filled with activities and strategies Linda used with her students. Those looking for inspiration will find the book filled with reminders about the potential and good in all of us. Those looking for personal fulfillment will find the book filled with words and questions that encourage reflection and action.
What makes this book special and worth reading? It describes an incredible journey made by a dedicated teacher who really likes kids and teaches because she knows she makes a difference in their lives...and they make a difference in hers and in the world.
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