How To Be Good - Nick Hornby

There were some truly clever remarks to be found; cutting and incisive reflections on the meaning of life for the middle class. These buoyed the otherwise stretch of a story that included an element of witchcraft requiring the suspension of belief that took away from the validity of the work as a whole. Nick writes from a female's perspective which is believable (at least being read by a man) but the idea as a whole seems somewhat half-baked, especially with the lack of a conclusion in the end. This book seems to be a used book store favourite and that is understandable, meaning the consensus is unanimous that although there are redeeming qualities it is not his best work.

February 2013
5

Work Hard. Be Nice - Jay Matthews

An inspiring read about the sacrifice of two young teachers very devoted to the education of their classrooms of children and doing all that they can to improve their situations. The two founders of the KIPP school are presented as tireless advocates fighting in every way possible for the students. Not a book I would necessarily have been attracted to but one with a great deal to offer, read on recommendation. Interesting that the author is not directly linked to the story but seems to have done his homework and presents many of the interactions through imagined dialogue which lends to the immediacy of the book. Nearing the end a few chapters seemed crammed in to give a balanced view but took away from the flow. Regardless a pleasant surprise of a true story that I would surely pass on to any teacher, or even anyone who needs to increase their determination.

January 2013
7.5