It Was Never About the Books: A memoir about a teacher's influence on his students' remarkable journeys

by Robert Pacilio, Katharine Valentino (Editor)

In America’s public schools today, teachers are overwhelmed by the number of students in their classrooms, the challenges of meeting their students’ emotional and academic needs, and the daunting administrative tasks thrust at them. What can be done to inspire teachers to stay the course? How can future generations of teachers be convinced to embark on a career that has meant so much to the advancement of an educated citizenry?

Robert Pacilio taught high school English for 32 years and was a teacher of the year in San Diego County. He has written a memoir dedicated to the principle that teachers who teach to their students, not at them, can make a difference.

Pacilio asked former students, “Did it matter that I was your teacher? Students told him they had found a safe space in his classroom with a teacher they could trust and emulate. They had gained confidence and learned that their “I Will” was more important than their IQ. Almost all had found success in life. In the end, they said, “It was never about the books.”

167 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 28, 2023

Reviews

[Sally Foster · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you ever had a teacher who changed your life, you’re going to love this book.

Mr. P. (Robert Pacilio), an accomplished author and an award-winning teacher in San Diego, uses rock ‘n’ roll lyrics and films to help students unlock the power and mystery of literature. In his latest book, “It Was Never About the Books,” he shares vignettes of students who touched his heart, and whose paths he, in turn, changed inexorably. Pacilio’s writing style makes for a very fluid read. The book is full of compelling anecdotes, which lead the reader into the heart and soul of what it means to be a teacher. From encouraging an awkward student to find his confidence; or helping a neglected young girl feel seen and heard so that she can begin to believe in her own worth, every chapter shows how Mr. P helps students “zero in on their passion.” This book will make your heart grow.

So if you’ve ever had a favorite teacher, if you aspire to become that type of teacher, or you just want a damn fine read, this is the book for you. By the time you’re finished reading it, you’re going to wish that Mr. P had been your teacher during your own formative years.

[Will Plunkett · Rating 5 out of 5]

Often, memoirs are mostly about the author, occasionally about the subject matter, but rarely about the future impacts. Sure, this book is about the author and the subject matter, too; but it is mostly about the impact. Not only his own impact on those students featured in each chapter of the book, but implied significance for the teaching profession then, now, and in the years to come. And for those who create playlists of songs, this book has a pretty good variety of "old" songs, with literary merit and good old enjoyment, as well. A good read for teachers and students alike, while parents and administrators can learn from it just as much.