Homeroom: A Shelter from the Storm

by Bob Nelson

Mr. Harmon, a high school teacher, is told by his principal that his program, Homeroom, will be cancelled. Homeroom is a support group for students that Harmon facilitates. His only chance to save the program is to appeal directly to the board of education. As Harmon prepares his presentation to the board, he remembers, in a series of flashbacks, events and people from past Homerooms. He recalls some very special, heartwarming stories of students who were touched and transformed by their experiences in Homeroom. Unfortunately, he also remembers some students whose outcomes were not so positive. He begins to doubt the value of Homeroom to students. In fact, he begins to doubt himself. In the meantime, a troubled student has made elaborate plans to shoot and kill most of the upperclassman at the school. His escalating hatred, with detailed plans for a massacre, builds toward a violent resolution. Harmon's crisis of faith, his presentation to the board, and the student's plans for the shooting weave together and build toward an exciting and insightful climax.

238 pages, Paperback

First published September 26, 2006

Reviews

[Joseph · Rating 5 out of 5]

He's great. It's true.

I know, met and admire the man who has authored this book. It's as true as hes written. I think he's the embodiment of Harmon and more.

[Sara Salih · Rating 5 out of 5]

Pure genius! I've read this book so many times I've lost count. Bob Nelson has a vast and deep understanding of the dirty politics and teenage conformity and hierarchy of the high school spectrum, along with public school systems. And he tells it all with such true psychological insight. Such simple concepts, but approached in a very unique, creative, profound manner. I have something starred or highlighted on almost every page. I would recommend this book to anyone past middle school. Teens, students, teachers, and parents everywhere will relate to the struggles and great storytelling of "Homeroom".

[Ann · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was written by the Pearce High School teacher! He came to our book club to discuss. Pretty good!