No comments about Promise of a Dream: Remembering the Sixties.

No comments about Elizabeth Palmer Peabody: A Reformer on Her Own Terms.

3 comments about Down the Mississippi With Stinky: 2 Women, a Canoe, and a Kitten (Wisconsin).

1. I personally know Dorie Brunner and she is a fascinating woman. However, the book shown here is not the recent one. She changed publishers and the second print is fantastic. Be sure to track it down!! She is so much happier with the second print.



2. What an interesting book, I loved it!!
   Dorie and Lou's canoe trip from Lake Bemidji in Minnesota to the city of New Orleans is an exciting river adventure. They experienced a number of hair-raising situations that made the book anything but boring. While dealing with the unforgiving weather and the unpredictable river, they meet some friendly people who helped them out along the way. And confronted some who didn't, like a skunk, a thief and other campsite intruders.
   It's an excellent read for those who love camping, canoeing, river stories and even cats. Dorie gives a good description of their journey and preparations. Even though it took place back in the summer of 1960 it's still very informative and interesting. Especially for those who have a fancy for doing something like this.

   A pet, such as a cat, can teach its human companions so many things about life. Not to mention how the silly antics of a cat can get its owners into trouble. Just as Dorie and Lou found out when they adopted a lonely kitten early in their trip.
   Stinky the kitten is a wonderful ingredient to their story, and it's likely that you wont find anything similar to this book anywhere else.




3. In 1960, Dorie Brunner and Lou Germann, two Wisconsin school teachers, decided to paddle the Mississippi from the headwaters at Lake Itasca, MN to New Orleans. Shortly into their adventure, they rescued a small kitten from the muck on the shore, and "Stinky" ended up traveling 2000+ miles downriver with them, becoming the focal point of much of their travels.
   
   What makes this book so charming is also what weakens it a bit...unlike most contemporary travel/adventure writers, Dorie and Lou obviously undertook this trip for the sheer adventure of it, not to race home and write a best seller. This is their authentic story, told by 74-year-old Dorie some 40 years later, drawing on memory...in fact, it doesn't appear that they even kept a journal. There is very little description of the places they visited, (though there are several photos) more about the daily hazards they faced, and Dorie apologizes for having long ago lost the names of people such as the tugboat captain who gave them a free ride for three days.

   But the heart of the book is Stinky's story. If you're one who believes that cats wander into our lives when we need them most, you'll find this to be a very charming read.

No comments about . . .Ending With A Flourish.

No comments about My Footprints in the Sands of Time: An Autobiography.

2 comments about Seeing Language in Sign: The Work of William C. Stokoe.

1. Seeing Language In Sign: The Work Of William C. Stokoe by Jane Maher (Assistant Professor, Basic Education Program, Nassau Community College, Garden City, New York) is an informed and informative examination of the life and ground breaking work of William Stokoe, the man who dared to challenge the commonly held belief that sign language is not a true "language" in and of itself. Stokoe's study and intense research into the beauty, complexity, and linguistic formatives of what would come to be called American Sign Language forever transformed how the linguistic community would view the language of the deaf. A fascinating book of an academic pioneer and his work, Seeing Language In Sign is a highly recommended and invaluable addition to Linguistic Studies supplemental reading lists and academic reference collections.



2. Seeing Language in Sign, by Jane Maher, held my attention to the last page. It is a true story about one of the most influencial hearing individuals in Deaf Society. William Stokoe was a true hero in his brilliance, committment and sacrifices to bring the true nature of American Sign Language to light. His story is inspiring and infuriating, as the reader learns of the obsticles placed in Stokoe's way as he strove to prove that ASL is a true language, full of all the richness and bredth of any spoken language. I was moved to tears several times and as I read the last page I wanted to meet this incredible man in person. The author wrote in such a manner that I felt as though I knew him personally. In my opinion, he deserves the Nobel Prize in Education. This book is a MUST READ for anyone who is serious about understanding ASL and Deaf Culture.

5 comments about When the Butterfly Stings.

1. This book is adequate--it is by no means "a masterpiece" as claimed by some of the reviewers (I question the impartiality of a few of the reviewers and wonder if they know Richard Kramer personally). The important subject matter of "When the Butterfly Stings" is diminished by over-exaggeration and tedious repetition. The first part is the fault of the author and the second part is due to poor editing. In addition to the many typos and spelling errors, this book is overly long at almost 500 pages, the bulk of which consists of the author raging against the institutions, cultural norms, and personality attributes he encounters while working as an Assistant English Teacher in Japan. I'm not saying Kramer was not justified in his outrage over what happened during his tenure in the JET program (he was), but the vital messages of the book were drowned out by his many tirades and tantrums, which were described ad nauseam.
   
   However, this book does have many merits. I enjoyed learning about the JET program from an insider's perspective. Kramer does a good job of describing his experiences with certain situations (ie., his awful apartment, restaurants, work drinking parties, the tea ceremony) and I also liked most of his character descriptions. Still, the negatives were enough that I can only give this book three stars.



2. This book is in my view a must read for anyone interested in Japan, living and teaching in Japan, modern Japanese society and the remnants of its past which still permeate through to modern society. As a Japanese married to a foreigner living and working in Osaka, I am amazed at how well this book captures some of the more intricate facets of Japanese society. I do agree with the prior reviewer that Kramer can be a bit indulgent in his writing, but one must look at the events described as more than a mere struggle of East vs. West. What Kramer describes is no less than the brutal murder of one of his students by another student while those around him did little to aid. He presents the opposing viewpoints to his own thoughts and theories in the form of discussions with friends and colleagues. He disagrees, strongly at times with the conclusions that they reach, but he does present their viewpoints, fairly and one hopes accurately. One must also remember that in the end he did bow (no pun intended) to the will of majority and the result was that his student was murdered! To call this book "culturally embarassing" is to do it a grave injustice. To call Kramer culturally ignorant and unappreciative of the opportunties afforded him is completely baseless. In the two years of time the book spans the author passionately devoted himself to learning Japanese and traditional arts such as shamisen and tea ceremony. In end the end the discussions and arguments he had with admnistration officials were in Japanese.
   
   The controvery created by this book is in my view one that is currently central to a struggle raging in Western philosophy and thought. Where is the acceptable line between being able to criticize and make better and being culturally insensitive and imperialistic? It is and always will be a fact and circumstance specific analysis, but Kramer in this book is in my view very safely on the correct side of the line in his analysis and conclusions. Personally, I wished he had been more aggressive in his approach as the end result may have been very different - as unfair as it may be to speculate on that score.
   
   Finally, I have noticed over the years that foreigners interested in Japan are largely of two types. There is the "Japanophile" - who loves all things Japanese, is extremely defensive of anyone who levels the slightest criticism against Japan, is extremely proud of being able to speak more than a few words of Japanese and fashions himself/herself a "hen na gaijin" or Japan expert. On the other hand there are those who despite outward appearances to the contrary, deep down despise Japan as backwards, and no attempts to understand it or embrace it. They use it for what they can e.g. money, physical pleasures, etc. Neither is a healthy view. To throw away what you have, the cultural perspective you are coming from in the mad and arrogant hope that you will find the meaning of another is pure folly. Kramer, in my view has the rare talent to take his knowledge and experience and apply it with understanding and decency in the attempt to understand and improve. Unfortunatley, both categories 1 and 2 gaijin in Japan may not like this book as each will compare it to his/her own experiences with distaste, but it remains an honest testament and a must read for anyone interested in modern and ancient Japan.



3. Arrogant, self-righteous, hot-headed and argumentative, are but a few of the traits exhibited by the author in his compare-and-contrast account of his experiences as a 2 year JET program participant. Kramer's accomplishment, though admirable, is colored by his culturally-uneducated interpretations of the differences between the American and Japanese society, educational systems, culture, and behavior.
   
   When facing challenges, Kramer's solutions often point out shortcomings, or apparent inferiority of not only the education system, and its bureaucracy, but social behavior of the Japanese themselves. While discounting interpretations, and advice of his fellow JETs with rural, and international education backgrounds, Kramer offers his perspectives through the biased lens of the apparent cosmopolitan, and inter-cultural upbringing afforded him by his New York City education.
   
   I strongly disagree with the conclusions of other reviewers that this book should be considered excellent literature, and that it is in any way objective. Kramer, though promising, will need to remove himself from his books, in order to gain them the credibility they need, and, yes, deserve, for a wider, let alone an international audience.
   
   As a JET cultural ambassador about to set off on his own adventure, I am embarrassed to be representing America in the footsteps of the attitudes expressed in this book. This book clearly illiterates the litany of reasons why Americans are seen as culturally-shallow, arrogant and imperialistic within the international community.
   
   Kramer's lack of objectivity in his experiences leave his writings vacant of the richness of cultural dynamics built over millennia of tradition in Japan, yielding a uniquely Japanese way of approaching conflict, and problems inherent in all aspects of a society. Kramer's book brutally robs Japan of its unique culture, in an Americanized attempt to analyze, and attribute the causes of the many preventable bullying incidents present in all schools, which resulted in the tragic murder of one of his students.
   
   If you are expecting great literature, or a deeper anthropological understanding of Japan's educational system, and its people, this book is not for you. If you are a JET seeking a glimpse of the kind of adventures awaiting you, this book indeed details a vivid account of the day-to-day life of a JET in Minamimatsuyama, Saitama prefecture. Kramer's unfortunately negative experiences, and biased opinions seem to overwhelm the numerous positive stories in his book. Do not let Kramer's overall negativity discourage you.
   
   If you read past Kramer's arrogance, his book is full of fascinating, and beautifully visualized anecdotes, which bring you vividly in contact with several individuals, which afforded the author a priceless glance at the magical world of language, tea ceremony, and musical tradition. It is in these authentic experiences and conversations with Japan's per-war generation that Kramer's masterfully remembered conversations, and vivid literary style really shine through.
   
   It is in moments where Kramer loses his basis for comparison does this book become a fascinating account of west meets east.
   
   Enjoy.



4. The description of this book does not do it justice. I read this on the advice of a friend not knowing what to expect (I am joining the JET program this year and I am a career 10+ teacher). What Kramer describes is a clear, objective picture of what to expect in terms of both living and teaching English in a junior high school in Japan. It is also hillariously amusing, with a great mix of anecdotes coupled with historic fact.

   And that is only half of the book. The second half deals with the problem of bullying. As the reader is informed and spellbound by on the very first page, one of Kramer's students murdered another in the classroom. He describes the reactions of the BD. Bd. of ED., other teachers, parents, and most of all himself through the events leading up to the tragedy and its aftermath. What I found most interesting was both how it reminded me of events of my own career in the US and also how with all things there often is no right answer. It is the process, the struggle that gives merit to the experience. This book guides, its teaches, it shows a picture of what to expect as a teacher not only in Japan but anywhere because at the end of the day, people are people.




5. Richard Kramer has written one of the most moving and beautiful narrations about the cultural dichotomy between post-WW II Japan and a post-Cold War American trying to bring comfort and love to a hard and unforgiving culture.

   I have read few books in my life that have moved me as much as "When the Butterfly Sings". Kramer has truly written a masterpiece - and I look forward to the broad distribution of this piece on a national/international level.

   Kramer is most definitely a superstar in the making. It is exciting to see a work of art like "When the Butterfly Sings" in anticipation of what is to come from this future literary genius.

No comments about Maria Montessori (Continuum Library of Educational Thought, Volume 7).

5 comments about Black Livingstone: A True Tale of Adventure in the Nineteenth-Century Congo.

1. I think that this book gives an excellent, detailed look back on a greatly unknown black American explorer, William Henry Sheppard. Pagan Kennedy opens our eyes to history that is left out of history books. The Presbyterian missionary attempts to convert African tribes into "civilized Christians", but in the end fails because of his mishaps and disliking by a white missionary. I recommend this book to anyone interested in studying black American explorers, or anyone looking for information on the Belgium Congo.



2. Black Livingstone is a remarkable tale, illustrating hardships, history, and the dignity and determination associated with two courageous explorers. Pagan Kennedy accurately portrays 19th century Africa, and shows the light and beauty of the "dark continent". Readers are bombarded with delicate representations of barbaric and striking images. In turn, it enables the reader to experience a deeper feeling of empathy for the abused Africans. This novel raises questions as to whose way of thinking was most primitive. This ironic twist reveals that perhaps the most civilized are the most barbaric by nature. The character Sheppard shows the Pontius Pilate in all of us. That no matter how much we want to strive for goodness, our weaknesses and dark sides, can get the best of us. The novels descriptive nature allows readers to see the intimacy Sheppard shared with the Kuba people, as well as the lack of intimacy he did share with his wife. A notable highlight of this novel is demonstrated when a more tasteless and uncouth side of Sheppard is shown. It showcases the human nature of Sheppard, and most men in general. Although not a difficult read, this book is recommended to those who care for the well being for the human race.



3. The life and work of William Sheppard should be better known. He was an African-American who escaped Jim Crow in the U.S. to become a missionary in Africa. He co-founded a Christian mission in Africa where they had been none before and for a time ran it single-handedly. He was also an amateur anthropologist/ethnologist and became the first foreigner to establish contact with the Kuba people of central Africa and to describe their culture to the outside world. On top of all that, he documented the cruelty of the King Leopold's Congo rule. Unfortunately, it is not clear that "Black Livingstone: A True Tale of Adventure in the Nineteenth-Century Congo" by Pagan Kennedy is up to the job of elevating William Sheppard to his rightful place in history. The book is well written, worth reading, and might be valuable to anyone interested in Africa, the Congo, or Christian missionaries, but a lot of the story is missing and is filled in with generalities from Sheppard's time. It may be the case that original documents concerning Sheppard's life are lost, and this is the best that can be done, or perhaps another book can do better. Four stars, but barely.



4. Pagan Kennedy told the story of a African American missonary who wanted to convert the uncharted parts of the Congo to christianity. William Sheppard, the missionary, was very determined to complete his goal of converting the Congo even if it took his whole life. I Could not put the book down. The book was basically a detailed sum up of what really went on in the Congo. At some points in the book it almost seemed fictional because it was so hard to believe what was happening to him amd the people who were with him. The book was a very good read, but at some points hard to understand but that added to the suspense of the book. Overall the book was a very fun an interesting book to read. I recommend this book to anyone who wants to learn about the Congo or who wants to find a good book to read.



5. I agree that Pagan Kennedy is an excellent storyteller, and her telling of William Sheppard's story is spellbinding. Contrary to what some reviewers think, however, there is much more primary material available to the researcher than Kennedy seems to have used. Unfortunately, Black Livingstone is marred by too many suppositions--maybe, probably, perhaps, could have, should have, etc.--and the author attributes attitudes both to Sheppard and his associates that cannot be substantiated from records. William Phipps's biography, William Sheppard: Congo's African American Livingstone, presents a much more balanced picture of this important man's life and service.

5 comments about The Girls in the Back of the Class.

1. I've worked in high schools for the past several years, and now am trying to get a job as a teacher. This book will be on my shelf to assist me with dealing with my class. Her methods are great! Too many teachers are so uptight that they are the cause of their own classroom problems. This author shows that great results can be had with compassion, a sprinkle of humor and a true love of her students.



2. What a wonderful book, for teachers, students, parents, anyone who might need to be reminded of how much we have to give, if we just "will". The author shows her love for her students in every passage, and it was well written, witty, and a wonderful read.
   
   Highly recommended as an entertaining, and insightful, book on teaching children who need love desperately.



3. I had the wonderful chance of reading this book. This book made me laugh and cry and jump in suspense. Ms. Johnson is a wonderful teacher who deserves awards beyong awards. The book taught me to see other parts of education. I really enjoyed reading this book and recommend it to anyone who is going into the education field



4. This should be required reading for every education major. I teach in an urban school; Ms. Johnson had something some of my young colleagues who quit teaching after a year do not have--resolve, persistance, and determination. There are no "bad" kids, there are kids who do "bad" things or come from "bad" environments, but as Ms. Johnson writes, it is possible to save the kids by giving a lot of ourselves.



5. I'm also an English teacher who have been teaching teen-agers for 10 years. Teaching teenagers is hard work, very stressful, depressed by themselves and the surrounding of them. I don't have such energy of love to my students as Louanne Johnson. But I can feel her pain in heart because I myself love my students. They are devils and angels at the same time. If they were devils, I could ignore them. If they were angels, I could just smile, do nothing, and just ignore them. But they are irresistable.

   I agree with Hal, her master teacher. He said to her, "Teenagers are supposed to be ungrateful little brutes. They're supposed to trample your tender feelings, break your heart. It's their job." He is always right. I wish he would be with me!!!