A Cry for Character

Michelle Pfeiffer should grab this book and bring it to her producers because it contains the best story about an American school teacher since "Dangerous Minds." Although the students who pushed for this unique character education program are getting most of the credit, one can't overlook the courageous high school French teacher, Karen Royer, who heard their "Cry for Character" and joined them in battling the public school system until they got what they wanted -- a chance to turn around their troubled school. Great vehicle for Pfeiffer, Meryl Streep, Julia Roberts, Sally Field or any of the A-list Hollywood stars. I can't wait to see the movie!

This is a great book! Finally, a story about teenagers doing something worthwhile, even historic. The author builds suspense as he follows the student leaders who had a wild idea -- bring good behavior and morals back to their school -- and takes them on the long, difficult journey of pushing their grandios plan up through the staid and overly protective school system. Not to be denied, this motivated group wouldn't take no for an answer until they'd accomplished their dream. An extraordinaly uplifting tale that makes you feel good about today's youth.

Most high school stories today are all bad. This was a big difference. The book was just as interesting as the wild and crazy stories, but the difference is that the good kids who wanted to make things better are the heros instead of the typical jerks you see in movies like American Pie. I loved the book and feel good that it's making a difference.

Just want say I loved this book and I'm so proud of the teenagers who helped turned their school around. You guys showed the right spirit and determination, and for that you'll always be remembered. Thank you Dary Matera for bringing this wonderful story of youthful pride and ability to the nation's attention!

This was a super read about a bunch of high school kids who were fed up with the problems at their Illinois school and decided to do something about it. The book chronicles, in dramatic fashion, the steps they took to take their controversial concept of a student-taught character education class and push it up through the maze of the public school system. Nothing, not skeptical teachers, wary administrators, a frowning teachers union or a politically minded school board could stop them. In less than a year, they accomplished their innovative goal of being given a part of the school day to have no-holds-barred discussions covering everything from alcohol, drugs, to premartial sex. From the moment the classes started, things began changing at the school for the better. This was mostly because the students now had a place to vent their anger and frustrations regarding all the typical,and not so typical, teenage problems. Author Dary Matera does a great job of taking a backseat and allowing the students who created and pushed the program to tell their stories in their own words. Because of this, the book will strike a cord with teenagers everywhere.