From Rage to Hope

Overall I would say this book is both practical and inspirational. She delicately puts into print truths that many of us would never admit and dispenses advice to reverse those negative ones. However, I was a little disappointed about how many times she said that it is unfortunate that many teachers are white, middle-class, females because Hispanic and Black students will not be able to relate to them very well. I also slightly resented the number of times she said that we must recruit more male teachers, especially black. I'm sorry but these two points make me, a white middle-class female, feel discouraged about even TRYING to reach Hispanic or Black students. I mean, why try when obviously a man could do a better job than me, and my race means I am too inadequate to teach children of color? I think she is probably well-intentioned, but these statements in themselves seem racist and gender-biased. If she, and other similarly-minded people, think racism and gender bias are wrong and should be eliminated, she should avoid such statements.

This book is a must read for educators and those interested in the future of education for everyone. Not only is the author gifted in her presentation but also a fantastic speaker.

This book is a must read for teachers. It should be required of teachers teaching students of color. I have used this books with my college students and it has helped them to understand a lot about the present problem of the academic achievement gap and how to turn it around. Anyone who cannot see the value of this book, has little understanding of the problem and potential solutions.

As an inner city school educator, I encourage all teachers to read this eye opening book. I had a chance to hear the author in person. She has a story to tell. You leave her feeling that you can change the world. The book is easy to read and if you are like me you will pick it up again and again. I learned a lot. I refer to it often. It is informative and provides the reader with some actual things one can do in the classroom. Several other teachers have read it also. Their comment is "The book has really helped". It will be a part of our professional development program this school year.