The Ball

by Todd Whitaker

Through this heartwarming parable, the author reminds you of the importance of keeping your focus and remaining true to yourself. When a veteran teacher and former student reunite, they confront the separate and unique challenges that have knocked them off course. Through each other, they find their way back on track with a message that will resonate with everyone. Benefits - Reflect on whether you've taken your eye off the ball. - Confront your own personal and professional priorities. - Prioritize the things you value most.

Genres: Leadership, Self Help

96 pages, Hardcover

First published September 28, 2010

Reviews

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fabulous book for teachers (and anyone really) who has lost the passion for what they do. It is a very short book and is a delightful story.

[Beth Swahn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This quick read is a great reminder that teaching should be fun and about the kids. It’s actually applicable to any career- what is actual important in it and how do we bring joy back in?

[Kasie Roden · Rating 4 out of 5]

Educational leadership. Quick read with a solid message.

[Ron · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book!

[Tabitha Rodriguez · Rating 4 out of 5]

Quick read for work. Reminds you to stay true to yourself and remember your goals that you set!

[Garret Rose · Rating 4 out of 5]

Quick read and reminder about setting goals and not losing your way of what it is you love to do.

[Lisa Grimaldi · Rating 4 out of 5]

My boss shared this book with me, and I am happy she did. It is a great reminder of the importance of being true to ourselves. Over time our job evolves and more can be put on us, but we need to remember why we are here and stay true to who we are.

This is a quick read and a book that should be kept at hand so when the times get tough and we need that reminder, pick it up and refresh our memory as to why we do what we do.

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a quick read--a parable about making sure you keep your eye on what matters most. When a teacher visits a grocery store and meets up with a former student, they talk about what has happened in each of their lives. As they talk, they begin to realize that they have forgotten what matters most in their work--and they want to revive it. I loved the way the pictures integrated with the story to become part of the text. It only took about 15 minutes to read, and it's worth the time! I'll be doing read-alouds in presentations with this one!

[Armando Lopez · Rating 5 out of 5]

I couldn't have picked this book up at a better time. In all the tediousness of the modern-day work environment, The Ball reminds us of the truth that we all know but too often forget: to stay focused on that which imbues our lives - professional or personal - with meaning. Highly recommended for anyone who works for a living, but especially teachers like me.

[Beth (MrsGinTN) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a good book to read at the close of the first week of school. I can definitely see myself as the teacher in this book. I will definitely have to reevaluate some of the things I am doing in class.

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

This short, inspirational little book speaks to things that ail education today. Teachers feel out of sync and this book provides a few ideas about how to get back on track. It was a quick read, well worth my time.

[Alex Valencic · Rating 5 out of 5]

I first read this book on 30 January 2015. I've read it a couple of times since then. I just finished reading it again. Whenever I need a reminder to keep my eye on the ball and to do what matters most, "The Ball" helps me do just that.

[Sylvia Ellison · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this "quick" and inspiring read. Finished in about 2 hours - still thinking of the impact that we as teachers have on the lives of our children and their futures. A MUST read for teachers!

[Jacqueline Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Quick read for educators or anyone who needs to remember why they went into their profession. Uplifting.

[Melissa · Rating 2 out of 5]

Ehh - it's a super short book about keeping your 'eye on the ball' and staying true to your beliefs (in relation to work) - didn't find it particularly enlightening or anything.

[Stacy · Rating 3 out of 5]

A nice reminder to keep our eye in the ball, whatever that may be for each of us, and to focus on what's important.

[Ashley Dunn · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thought this was a cute book about remembering your love for teaching.

[Casie Yowell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cute little reminder about not forgetting the little things!