By Hollie Nielsen, AWC Central Scotland
This lovely little book is an ode to teachers; its positive message is a balm in these days of undervaluing teachers and book banning.
As the jacket text says, “Everyone can name a teacher who had an impact on their life. Educators not only open our minds to new ideas, but they also help us recognize our potential and passions.” The book contains vignettes and musings from Deborah Roberts and her celebrity friends and colleagues “that share how teachers changed them, imparted life lessons, and helped them get to where they are today.” The book features stories from Oprah Winfrey, Spike Lee, Jenna Bush Hager, Brooke Shields, Al Roker, Ann Patchett and Bobbi Brown.
For example, Deborah Roberts tells the story of how a small gesture of confidence from a teacher ignited a lifelong fire and love of learning in her and how another teacher watered the seeds of her determination. Ann Patchett talks about how “teaching someone to read is the most meaningful gift you can give,” and Lucy Liu discusses how “a small act of kindness can be a lifeline for a struggling child.” Other people talk about being inspired by their teachers; Tonya Lewis Lee says: “If a teacher sets the bar high, students will be inspired to jump over it,” and Mellody Hobson says “When excellence is the expectation, kids rise to the challenge.” Resilience is also a gift from teachers; Al Roker praises the teacher who helped him learn how to roll with the punches. In addition, Lorraine Toussaint muses about how a teacher can be a balm to a student: “A good teacher is the tonic to something toxic.”
I recommend this book as an uplifting reminder of the crucial role teachers play in all our lives. Discussing this book with friends or colleagues would, I think, lead to many fond memories and interesting conversations.
Photo by Hollie Nielsen
