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Love and Other Subjects
For every woman who thought she chose the wrong career…
In Love and Other Subjects Carolyn Jenkins strives for two things—to be the greatest teacher ever and to find true love. She’s as skilled at both as an infant chowing down with a fork. Carolyn’s suburban upbringing and genuine compassion for people who don’t fit effortlessly into society are no match for weapon-wielding, struggling students, drug-using colleagues, and a wicked principal.
Meanwhile, her budding relationship with a mystery man is thwarted by his gaggle of eccentric sisters. Carolyn depends on her friends to get her through the hard times, but with poverty-stricken children at her feet and a wealthy man at her side, she must define who she is. The reality of life after college can be daunting—the road to full-fledged adulthood is long and unscripted. Can Carolyn take control and craft the life she’s always wanted?
In Love and Other Subjects Carolyn Jenkins strives for two things—to be the greatest teacher ever and to find true love. She’s as skilled at both as an infant chowing down with a fork. Carolyn’s suburban upbringing and genuine compassion for people who don’t fit effortlessly into society are no match for weapon-wielding, struggling students, drug-using colleagues, and a wicked principal.
Meanwhile, her budding relationship with a mystery man is thwarted by his gaggle of eccentric sisters. Carolyn depends on her friends to get her through the hard times, but with poverty-stricken children at her feet and a wealthy man at her side, she must define who she is. The reality of life after college can be daunting—the road to full-fledged adulthood is long and unscripted. Can Carolyn take control and craft the life she’s always wanted?
256 pages, Paperback
First published December 11, 2012
10 people are currently reading
688 people want to read
About the author
Kathleen Shoop
49 books1,126 followersBestselling author, Kathleen Shoop, holds a PhD in reading education and has more than 20 years of experience in the classroom. She writes historical fiction, women’s fiction and romance. Shoop’s novels have garnered various awards in the Independent Publisher Book Awards, Eric Hoffer Book Awards, Indie Excellence Awards, Next Generation Indie Book Awards and the San Francisco Book Festival. Kathleen has been featured in USA Today and the Writer’s Guide to 2013. Her work has appeared in The Tribune-Review, four Chicken Soup for the Soul books and Pittsburgh Parent magazine. She lives in Oakmont, Pennsylvania with her husband and two children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
January 29, 2014
I LOVED this book. The beginning was a bit emotional for me, for a variety of reasons, involving an incident with a gun at a school. As the parent of school aged children, this issue always hits close to home, and I was an education major in college, and had a student bring a gun to school. Reading a book about a teacher in an underprivileged school, similar to the one I did my student teaching in, made the book quite personal for me. I loved how the author wove in the details of how many students spend so much time learning strategies in college that just aren’t practical or applicable in real life teaching experiences. Sometimes the best teachers are those who are able to navigate the classroom and the school politics to really make a difference in the lives of students that REALLY need that in their life. I felt like the main character, Carolyn, was quite successful at that, as hard as it was for her to get through. The book made me laugh out loud, and I enjoyed the romantic tales that were woven in. Once I started this book, I just could not put it down. It’s an easy read and made me go look for a sequel. I want to keep following Carolyn’s life, I really hope there’s another Carolyn story in the pipeline :)
July 28, 2013
This one has been slow-going for me. I really liked the premise for the story, but I'm getting stuck in some of the parts of the story, and having a hard time following the plot in some areas. The relationship with Jeep is probably what is really slowing me down, it seems a little implausible, and hurriedly put together. I love the parts about her teaching in the classroom.
I just finished and the book really came together for me in the second half and I really ended up enjoying it quite a lot, so I gave it four stars!!
I just finished and the book really came together for me in the second half and I really ended up enjoying it quite a lot, so I gave it four stars!!
March 15, 2013
When I started reading this book I readied myself for something light and fluffy, but it surprised me around every corner. The internal dialogue was interesting, funny, wry, ironic. But throughout Carolyn's journey of doubt and self-discovery one knows that she is growing all the time, that she is getting closer to understanding exactly who she is. Her love of teaching, and of children, shines through everything.
I really enjoyed reading this book. Well done to Kathleen Shoop.
I really enjoyed reading this book. Well done to Kathleen Shoop.
December 15, 2013
I just love this book! While it does have romance, it is the first year of teaching that really drew me in. Most teachers go into the profession wanting to make a big difference. It is not as easy as it looks, and there is definitely not enough pay. The first year is the hardest no matter where you are, but to be in a struggling school like Carolyn is even harder. Kathleen Shoop brings this struggle to life, not to mention showing that teaching takes over one's life. Most teachers spend hours and hours outside of school working and studying.
I identified with Carolyn on so many levels. The first semester I taught I was just thrown to the wolves. Thankfully, I did have friends that helped me out. I came in as a permanent sub around Christmastime. I had a college degree, but not in education. I hadn't even planned on teaching. It was a learning experience for all of us, me and my students. I loved my students, and I'm still in contact with many of them. I don't think you ever forget those students from your first year. I had close to 200 students that year. I taught high school.
I spent so many hours trying to reach my students and to get them excited about learning, just like Carolyn. I had some that couldn't read or comprehend very well, while I had others that should have been in honors. Like Carolyn, I had a principal (really asst. principal) who promised to help and that we would work together. What a crock. He was never ugly like Carolyn's principal, but he was pretty useless.
This book does a wonderful job of showing some of the struggles, and b.s. teachers have to deal with. Like when Carolyn is talking about how her principal insists teachers write objectives for lessons on their boards. She had it totally right when she said, "There are so many things wrong with that, I didn't know where to start. One, my kids didn't give a shit what the objective of a lesson is." I remember when our school system implemented this, too. It is a waste of time and board space. As long as the teacher knows the objective of the lesson that should be good enough. Kids could care less.
I would love for all new teachers to read this book. It will show them first that not every situation will have you teaching at a school like where you were a student teacher (usually a better situation). It, also, shows that you should never give up on yourself or your students. It may take some extra work, but you can make a difference.
It would be nice if parents and others in the community would read this, too. While not every situation may not be this bad, the job is not as easy as others make it out to be. There are so many things involved in teaching that people have no clue about. More and more of a teacher's focus is taken away from teaching and forced to be put on paperwork and testing. I would love for anyone that makes decisions about teaching be mandated to teach in a struggling school (not the best with the best students0 for at least 2 weeks every year (preferably longer), and have to do everything that the regular teacher does. They should have to write lesson plans with separate ones with accommodations for students with IEP's and IAP's, paperwork, discipline, etc. They might have a better idea of what's going on.
I give this book 5 stars. Like I said, I think everyone should read this. I loved the romance, but I love the teaching even more. I think many teachers will identify with this book. Buy this book for yourself, your friends, your family -- everyone. Then make sure you thank a teacher because you can read, and for everything they do. Many teachers are barely paid enough to be over the poverty mark. This should change.
I received this book to review through Beck Valley Books Book Tours, all the opinions above are 100% my own.
I identified with Carolyn on so many levels. The first semester I taught I was just thrown to the wolves. Thankfully, I did have friends that helped me out. I came in as a permanent sub around Christmastime. I had a college degree, but not in education. I hadn't even planned on teaching. It was a learning experience for all of us, me and my students. I loved my students, and I'm still in contact with many of them. I don't think you ever forget those students from your first year. I had close to 200 students that year. I taught high school.
I spent so many hours trying to reach my students and to get them excited about learning, just like Carolyn. I had some that couldn't read or comprehend very well, while I had others that should have been in honors. Like Carolyn, I had a principal (really asst. principal) who promised to help and that we would work together. What a crock. He was never ugly like Carolyn's principal, but he was pretty useless.
This book does a wonderful job of showing some of the struggles, and b.s. teachers have to deal with. Like when Carolyn is talking about how her principal insists teachers write objectives for lessons on their boards. She had it totally right when she said, "There are so many things wrong with that, I didn't know where to start. One, my kids didn't give a shit what the objective of a lesson is." I remember when our school system implemented this, too. It is a waste of time and board space. As long as the teacher knows the objective of the lesson that should be good enough. Kids could care less.
I would love for all new teachers to read this book. It will show them first that not every situation will have you teaching at a school like where you were a student teacher (usually a better situation). It, also, shows that you should never give up on yourself or your students. It may take some extra work, but you can make a difference.
It would be nice if parents and others in the community would read this, too. While not every situation may not be this bad, the job is not as easy as others make it out to be. There are so many things involved in teaching that people have no clue about. More and more of a teacher's focus is taken away from teaching and forced to be put on paperwork and testing. I would love for anyone that makes decisions about teaching be mandated to teach in a struggling school (not the best with the best students0 for at least 2 weeks every year (preferably longer), and have to do everything that the regular teacher does. They should have to write lesson plans with separate ones with accommodations for students with IEP's and IAP's, paperwork, discipline, etc. They might have a better idea of what's going on.
I give this book 5 stars. Like I said, I think everyone should read this. I loved the romance, but I love the teaching even more. I think many teachers will identify with this book. Buy this book for yourself, your friends, your family -- everyone. Then make sure you thank a teacher because you can read, and for everything they do. Many teachers are barely paid enough to be over the poverty mark. This should change.
I received this book to review through Beck Valley Books Book Tours, all the opinions above are 100% my own.
January 29, 2013
It's her first year of teaching and things just aren't going well for Carolyn Jenkins. With a class full of kids who can barely read their own name and a principal who is out to get her, Carolyn is struggling. Also stuck in a relationship that should have ended long ago, Carolyn needs to make some changes. Then she meets a mysterious man and things really start to get crazy. Their relationship is filled with ups and downs, and things between her and her friends are becoming strained as well. Carolyn is finally forced to take a stand and find out what she really wants and who she really is.
I loved Carolyn immediately. She is quirky, spunky and full of energy. She had very quick wit and wasn't afraid to use it. I just know that we would make excellent friends. Carolyn worked very hard and loved her students, even though they didn't seem to care much about her. She teaches in a dangerous area and even her young students are fighting and bringing weapons to school.
As if this is all Carolyn's fault, she is constantly being reprimanded and ridiculed by her boss, the principal, Klein. He seems out to get her. Everything she does is wrong and he makes sure to let her know on a daily basis. My word I just could not stand him. I couldn't turn the pages fast enough to see him finally get what he had coming. I don't know how Carolyn could handle it, I would have punched him within a day.
Aside from her work life, Carolyn lived with her two fellow teachers Nina and Laura. I liked them for the most part, although I don't think they were as supportive of Carolyn as they could have been. Of course, friends fight and argue and sometimes they say things they shouldn't. This made for some interesting drama and I really enjoyed watching the group's dynamics and how they interacted.
My favorite part of this story was, of course, the romance. When Carolyn meets her mysterious man known to us as "Money", things take a hilarious turn. What I loved about Carolyn most was that she is awkward and it shows the most when around Money. She can't seem to stop saying and doing ridiculous things and this makes for the best scenes.
Basically what I'm saying here is: this book is awesome. It's not just funny, but it also tackles some very important issues including racism, education and stereotypes. I'm being completely honest when I tell you that I couldn't put this book down and I often found the husband staring at me and wondering why I was giggling to myself. The author did an amazing job writing about heavy topics while keeping the story light and realistic.
I can't recommend this book enough. If you are looking for an engaging, clever and witty read, this is definitely it!
I loved Carolyn immediately. She is quirky, spunky and full of energy. She had very quick wit and wasn't afraid to use it. I just know that we would make excellent friends. Carolyn worked very hard and loved her students, even though they didn't seem to care much about her. She teaches in a dangerous area and even her young students are fighting and bringing weapons to school.
As if this is all Carolyn's fault, she is constantly being reprimanded and ridiculed by her boss, the principal, Klein. He seems out to get her. Everything she does is wrong and he makes sure to let her know on a daily basis. My word I just could not stand him. I couldn't turn the pages fast enough to see him finally get what he had coming. I don't know how Carolyn could handle it, I would have punched him within a day.
Aside from her work life, Carolyn lived with her two fellow teachers Nina and Laura. I liked them for the most part, although I don't think they were as supportive of Carolyn as they could have been. Of course, friends fight and argue and sometimes they say things they shouldn't. This made for some interesting drama and I really enjoyed watching the group's dynamics and how they interacted.
My favorite part of this story was, of course, the romance. When Carolyn meets her mysterious man known to us as "Money", things take a hilarious turn. What I loved about Carolyn most was that she is awkward and it shows the most when around Money. She can't seem to stop saying and doing ridiculous things and this makes for the best scenes.
Basically what I'm saying here is: this book is awesome. It's not just funny, but it also tackles some very important issues including racism, education and stereotypes. I'm being completely honest when I tell you that I couldn't put this book down and I often found the husband staring at me and wondering why I was giggling to myself. The author did an amazing job writing about heavy topics while keeping the story light and realistic.
I can't recommend this book enough. If you are looking for an engaging, clever and witty read, this is definitely it!
December 19, 2012
From the first, I was attracted to the main character, Carolyn Jenkins. She’s in her mid-20s, smart (and smart-alecky!), hard-working, and as we soon learn, idealistic. All good characteristics for a new teacher. Unfortunately, like many new teachers, she has landed in a tough situation: a challenged school with a ridiculous administration. As Carolyn navigates her new career, new life and new love, we laugh and cry along with her.
The book is well-written, with good dramatic tension. I was pulled along into the story; it's compelling. I was entertained and wanted to know what's going to happen. I liked Carolyn and cared about her. The sexual tension in the story is hot (and funny!); the coming of age theme is universal, and the classroom and student-related scenes very moving and realistic. I laughed and laughed over the fart scene in the story, and I cried over another scene I won’t describe – save it for your own enjoyment. Any writer who can write well without over-dramatizing is to be admired. I enjoyed LAOS and I recommend it.
The book is well-written, with good dramatic tension. I was pulled along into the story; it's compelling. I was entertained and wanted to know what's going to happen. I liked Carolyn and cared about her. The sexual tension in the story is hot (and funny!); the coming of age theme is universal, and the classroom and student-related scenes very moving and realistic. I laughed and laughed over the fart scene in the story, and I cried over another scene I won’t describe – save it for your own enjoyment. Any writer who can write well without over-dramatizing is to be admired. I enjoyed LAOS and I recommend it.
January 21, 2014
This reminded me of the movie "Lean on Me" with Morgan Freeman. Only Carolyn has to deal with a principal that is determined to make her quit. With so many school shootings this book really shed light on what teachers feel. The way that the author opened the book was dramatic, and she finished it up with a great love story. Carolyn is a character that I could relate to. She constantly had bad luck, and was unsure of her choices. She had great character development and by the end if the book, she was a completely different person. She did not give up. She was very determined, and it showed in her actions. I also liked the thrown in comedy throughout the book. It lessened the drama of the opening.
I am giving this book a 5/5. I was given a copy to review, however all opinions are my own.
- See more at: http://dealsharingaunt.blogspot.com/2...
I am giving this book a 5/5. I was given a copy to review, however all opinions are my own.
- See more at: http://dealsharingaunt.blogspot.com/2...
February 25, 2023
This is the story of a teacher trying to navigate her first year teaching in an inner city school. She is constantly berated by administration and pressured to forsake her students’ needs in order to provide “check the box” instructional techniques and receiving no support or help. As a former teacher, I can relate.
I loved Carolyn’s heart and the teaching storyline. Her personal life, on the other hand, was ridiculous. Her social skills, whether arguing with her best friends, callous breakup with a former boyfriend, and cringingly awkward encounters with a new love interest, leave a bit to be desired.
The teaching storyline makes this an overall enjoyable read.
I loved Carolyn’s heart and the teaching storyline. Her personal life, on the other hand, was ridiculous. Her social skills, whether arguing with her best friends, callous breakup with a former boyfriend, and cringingly awkward encounters with a new love interest, leave a bit to be desired.
The teaching storyline makes this an overall enjoyable read.
March 15, 2013
She's Got Books on Her Mind
Carolyn has been teaching for two months and her dream of changing lives is crumpling beneath her. Her boss Mr. Klein breathes down her neck while her students constantly fight with one another. She starts wondering if becoming a teacher was a mistake. Compared to her best friends she is failing royally. Not only is her work life in shambles but her personal life too. She realizes that what her longtime boyfriend Alex wants she doesn't. She's known this for a while now but it's confirmed when she meets a mysterious man that she falls for instantly. As she tries to take control of her work and love life Carolyn has to face challenges and obstacles all around her. She must find a way to have things work for her so her life and the lives of the students that depend on her are saved.
I was really excited to read another teacher book. I was readily looking for another The Unlikely Gift of Treasure Blume. I quickly realized this book was going to be very different. It started off pretty shaky for me with an incident in the classroom that I think wasn't done right and later in what felt like her falling in the instalove trap. I groaned internally and was hoping that this didn't foreshadow the rest of the story. Luckily it did pick up when you saw Carolyn in her element - the classroom. I felt her pain when she didn't know how to react to some of these kids words and actions. I would have frozen and possibly given up if I were her. I would have burst out crying if I had a boss like hers who is the definition of evil. He just doesn't care and nothing has convinced me otherwise. His and this other woman's relationship just really made me angry. It was so inappropriate and wrong. There were moments with Carolyn that I thought were inappropriate and unnecessary too but I digress. It seems to always happen with me and adult books.
I really didn't like the relationship between her and the mysterious man who everyone said was like sixty. He apparently is fifteen years older but I don't know why it was mentioned so much. It seemed so weird. I just didn't connect with them as a couple. I did like the drama that ensued when she met his well to do family. It left me feeling sorry for Carolyn but also it provided me with some excitement seeing it all unfold around her which sounds mean but I just like drama. I felt bad for Carolyn most of the way through the book. She had to deal with so much and I wanted to see more people on her corner. I wanted her to stand up to her horrid boss. I love that she got some backbone at the end of the book. She was also sneakily being awesome with actually teaching her students without the principle knowing. I didn't like how she assumed some things about the people around her but I did see that she acknowledged she was doing something wrong. She worked hard for people to see her for who she was and to see that she was trying to be better. I really appreciated that side of her. I wish it was only her in the classroom all the time though. That's where the book kept my attention.
All of her students have a hard time reading or can't read at all. One of her students has huge issues that no one seems to notice but her until he gets Mr. Klein's attention. Ooh! That Mr. Klein. He just burns me inside. He would have someone listen to her teach over the intercom. He would criticize her teaching for hours after school. He would make her have a manual of things to ask the students or something silly like that. The kids were bored by it so they never learned anything doing things the Klein way. You don't know how happy it made me for Carolyn to actually teach these kids something and to take initiative. She got to know the students personally and I kept on thinking that this, this is what I wanted to see. It's because I didn't like the romance that when I saw her in the classroom I saw her in a new and better light. She had her faults but she was a great, caring teacher that just needed a chance.
I'm glad that there was a large portion of the book that just focused on the teaching side of her life. It's what I wanted when I decided I wanted to read this book. It was the best part of the book and I really just feel like it should have been focused on even more. After two books about teachers I've realized that I need to find and read more books like them. I don't know what it is about reading books where the teacher is the main character. Maybe all those years in a classroom it's kind of cool to get into a teacher's head. I think mostly it's because I like seeing teachers taking students on this journey and arriving at the end successful. I like hopeful books that make you want to see the good that happens in the world instead of constantly seeing the bad.
Carolyn has been teaching for two months and her dream of changing lives is crumpling beneath her. Her boss Mr. Klein breathes down her neck while her students constantly fight with one another. She starts wondering if becoming a teacher was a mistake. Compared to her best friends she is failing royally. Not only is her work life in shambles but her personal life too. She realizes that what her longtime boyfriend Alex wants she doesn't. She's known this for a while now but it's confirmed when she meets a mysterious man that she falls for instantly. As she tries to take control of her work and love life Carolyn has to face challenges and obstacles all around her. She must find a way to have things work for her so her life and the lives of the students that depend on her are saved.
I was really excited to read another teacher book. I was readily looking for another The Unlikely Gift of Treasure Blume. I quickly realized this book was going to be very different. It started off pretty shaky for me with an incident in the classroom that I think wasn't done right and later in what felt like her falling in the instalove trap. I groaned internally and was hoping that this didn't foreshadow the rest of the story. Luckily it did pick up when you saw Carolyn in her element - the classroom. I felt her pain when she didn't know how to react to some of these kids words and actions. I would have frozen and possibly given up if I were her. I would have burst out crying if I had a boss like hers who is the definition of evil. He just doesn't care and nothing has convinced me otherwise. His and this other woman's relationship just really made me angry. It was so inappropriate and wrong. There were moments with Carolyn that I thought were inappropriate and unnecessary too but I digress. It seems to always happen with me and adult books.
I really didn't like the relationship between her and the mysterious man who everyone said was like sixty. He apparently is fifteen years older but I don't know why it was mentioned so much. It seemed so weird. I just didn't connect with them as a couple. I did like the drama that ensued when she met his well to do family. It left me feeling sorry for Carolyn but also it provided me with some excitement seeing it all unfold around her which sounds mean but I just like drama. I felt bad for Carolyn most of the way through the book. She had to deal with so much and I wanted to see more people on her corner. I wanted her to stand up to her horrid boss. I love that she got some backbone at the end of the book. She was also sneakily being awesome with actually teaching her students without the principle knowing. I didn't like how she assumed some things about the people around her but I did see that she acknowledged she was doing something wrong. She worked hard for people to see her for who she was and to see that she was trying to be better. I really appreciated that side of her. I wish it was only her in the classroom all the time though. That's where the book kept my attention.
All of her students have a hard time reading or can't read at all. One of her students has huge issues that no one seems to notice but her until he gets Mr. Klein's attention. Ooh! That Mr. Klein. He just burns me inside. He would have someone listen to her teach over the intercom. He would criticize her teaching for hours after school. He would make her have a manual of things to ask the students or something silly like that. The kids were bored by it so they never learned anything doing things the Klein way. You don't know how happy it made me for Carolyn to actually teach these kids something and to take initiative. She got to know the students personally and I kept on thinking that this, this is what I wanted to see. It's because I didn't like the romance that when I saw her in the classroom I saw her in a new and better light. She had her faults but she was a great, caring teacher that just needed a chance.
I'm glad that there was a large portion of the book that just focused on the teaching side of her life. It's what I wanted when I decided I wanted to read this book. It was the best part of the book and I really just feel like it should have been focused on even more. After two books about teachers I've realized that I need to find and read more books like them. I don't know what it is about reading books where the teacher is the main character. Maybe all those years in a classroom it's kind of cool to get into a teacher's head. I think mostly it's because I like seeing teachers taking students on this journey and arriving at the end successful. I like hopeful books that make you want to see the good that happens in the world instead of constantly seeing the bad.
January 26, 2013
“Learning and Love 101…”
In this latest work of Ms. Shoop, we are introduced to Carolyn Jenkins, who has taken a position at a school on the D.C/Maryland border, which is world’s apart from her teaching experience in Pittsburgh, Pa. She now has a class comprised of half fifth graders and half sixth graders. Just because their age denotes the class to which they are assigned, does not mean they are academically prepared for its challenges. Carolyn’s class is a wild mix of personalities, from the girls who are 11-12--going on 30, and the boys, some of whom want to express their personal philosophies without appearing weak, while some bookish souls relish in turning the classroom quiet into a center of debate with their opinions of life, love and religion. All have one thing in common, they want to break out of their surroundings, packing their hopes and dreams and running away from the area’s defeating decay and the gangs who inhabit it. It is difficult enough to hold their attention and make some progress in learning—but when wild card with a soul, LeAndre Nardo gets in a tussle with a hot-tempered classmate and produces 2 guns, one which fires, hitting Carolyn’s booted foot, all hell breaks loose. Snarky, slimy Principal Klein had not been supportive prior to this incident and now is increasingly nasty, degrading and super critical—blaming and writing Carolyn up for every minor detail, including not turning her classroom lights on in the afternoon when she struggles to inspire and equip her students for their future, especially in their reading and comprehending skills. Depressed and discouraged, Carolyn decided to forego meeting roommates Nina and Laura at “The Green Turtle” and finds herself seated on a stool at a dive bar named “The Tuna”. She accidentally meets a distinguished-looking gentleman who she secretly nicknames “Money”. Something between them clicks, but there is the matter of her supposed boyfriend Alex to contend with. She has been meaning to break up with him as she knows they are not right for each other. Alex is looking for a “Martha Stewart Wannabe” and that is just not her! Will she break up with Alex, with “Money” taking his place? The author has captured the zany characters so you will feel like you know them and will want to slap Klein “Upside his head”, shake some sense into Fionna, make a chain out of snoopy Bobby Jo’s paper clips , will discover some surprises about Nina and Laura and want to take the struggling Carolyn under your wing and give her encouragement and appreciation. You will howl over the “slip” and the green bottle gift as well as grit your teeth over the six sisters named Mary. In the midst of the craziness, Carolyn takes a stand that the stodgy and staid curriculum does not work for all and pursues her own version . We need more Carolyns in this country of ours—individuals who truly care about the students for the individuals they are and what they require to succeed, and less pressure from administrations and unions. The author has based classroom/school parts of this volume on her own teaching experiences. I’m betting you’ll give this book the “Lincoln Thumbs-Up”, so be sure to add it to your TBR list.
Nancy Narma
January 23, 2014
Carolyn is struggling during her first year as a teacher. With a boss who seems determined to put an end to her career before it’s barely begun and violence becoming commonplace in her classroom, this is not how Carolyn expected things to be. Having trained to be a teacher so that she could make her own mark on the world, Carolyn thought that she would make immediate changes to the lives of her pupils but instead she feels out of her depth in the classroom.
Wondering if she’s made the wrong career choice altogether, Carolyn goes to a local bar to drown her sorrows. Having been in a relationship with Alex for as long as she can remember, she is shocked when she feels an immediate spark with a man she meets there. Jeep is older than her but understands her like no one has before. Unlike Alex, who wants Carolyn to adapt to the perfect vision of his future wife, Jeep likes her as she is and embraces her many quirks. Carolyn decides to take control of both her personal life and her classroom curriculum and we follow her journey until the end of her first year at school.
This is the second novel from Kathleen Shoop that I have read and I really enjoyed it. The writing, the situations and the dialogue all felt very realistic. I loved how Carolyn’s snappy, spur of the moment thoughts, were intertwined in the conversations she was having and the noticeable differences in language and dialect between the teachers, students and other acquaintances.
Carolyn’s room mates and fellow first year teachers, her students and their parents, her love interests and her family are a complete network of great, unique characters. The differences between both race and class are also touched upon, both as Carolyn visits parents of her students and the family of new love, Jeep. Carolyn both learns to understand her own judgements of others, whilst dealing with being judged herself.
My Rating 4/5 ~ Great characters, realistic dialogue and true to life situations are all present in this academic love story. Kathleen Shoop proves yet again that she has a real gift for creating love stories but also the ability to write real, gritty novels. Love and Other Subjects is a coming of age story, not only for the students but for the first year teachers too.
Wondering if she’s made the wrong career choice altogether, Carolyn goes to a local bar to drown her sorrows. Having been in a relationship with Alex for as long as she can remember, she is shocked when she feels an immediate spark with a man she meets there. Jeep is older than her but understands her like no one has before. Unlike Alex, who wants Carolyn to adapt to the perfect vision of his future wife, Jeep likes her as she is and embraces her many quirks. Carolyn decides to take control of both her personal life and her classroom curriculum and we follow her journey until the end of her first year at school.
This is the second novel from Kathleen Shoop that I have read and I really enjoyed it. The writing, the situations and the dialogue all felt very realistic. I loved how Carolyn’s snappy, spur of the moment thoughts, were intertwined in the conversations she was having and the noticeable differences in language and dialect between the teachers, students and other acquaintances.
Carolyn’s room mates and fellow first year teachers, her students and their parents, her love interests and her family are a complete network of great, unique characters. The differences between both race and class are also touched upon, both as Carolyn visits parents of her students and the family of new love, Jeep. Carolyn both learns to understand her own judgements of others, whilst dealing with being judged herself.
My Rating 4/5 ~ Great characters, realistic dialogue and true to life situations are all present in this academic love story. Kathleen Shoop proves yet again that she has a real gift for creating love stories but also the ability to write real, gritty novels. Love and Other Subjects is a coming of age story, not only for the students but for the first year teachers too.
December 27, 2012
Carolyn Jenkins is a new teacher, brimming with optimism and ready to save the world. Well, she's at least ready to save her class full of kids from a life doomed to illiteracy and menial jobs. Life, however, turns out to be more complicated and dismal than her idealistic vision. The reality of an inner-city school and a broken system threatens to ruin her dreams. Her personal life isn't doing so hot either. After breaking up with her long-time boyfriend, Alex, her BFF roommates Laura and Nina aren't necessarily supportive. When she meets a mysterious older man named Jeep, Carolyn gains the courage to move forward with her life-changing plan. Over the school year, Carolyn learns the dirty truth about the school where she works, Klein the sadistic principal who is also her boss, and about Jeep's crazy family. Can Carolyn push past all this imperfection to grasp happiness or will she lose everything she hoped for?
Carolyn was a character of radical highs and lows. Her optimism and quirky courage warred with her negativity and over-analasys of the faults in her life, others, and herself. It was kind of annoying at first and showed her extreme immaturity. Kathleen uses all the awful setbacks in Carolyn's life to expose her immaturity, aggravate her moodiness, but also to bring out her strength and mature her. I liked Carolyn more and more through the book as I left behind her spoiled whininess and sympathized with her.
The other characters served well to help Carolyn suffer more, but they were also her strength. I liked the juxtaposition of the different personalities of Nina and Laura, who Carolyn also worked with, and their different perspectives on life. Jeep, the love interest, was a great elusive temptation and ideal in Carolyn's life. I don't think I could have thought of a crazier name for him, and pairing him with a brother-in-law named Ford was just hilarious.
This book entertained me and drew me through the story without boredom. The pacing was great and I loved all the subtle details of conversation and background. Thanks for the great read, Kathleen!
Carolyn was a character of radical highs and lows. Her optimism and quirky courage warred with her negativity and over-analasys of the faults in her life, others, and herself. It was kind of annoying at first and showed her extreme immaturity. Kathleen uses all the awful setbacks in Carolyn's life to expose her immaturity, aggravate her moodiness, but also to bring out her strength and mature her. I liked Carolyn more and more through the book as I left behind her spoiled whininess and sympathized with her.
The other characters served well to help Carolyn suffer more, but they were also her strength. I liked the juxtaposition of the different personalities of Nina and Laura, who Carolyn also worked with, and their different perspectives on life. Jeep, the love interest, was a great elusive temptation and ideal in Carolyn's life. I don't think I could have thought of a crazier name for him, and pairing him with a brother-in-law named Ford was just hilarious.
This book entertained me and drew me through the story without boredom. The pacing was great and I loved all the subtle details of conversation and background. Thanks for the great read, Kathleen!
July 24, 2013
Carolyn Jenkins is a newly-minted teacher who’s somehow ticked off the Principal of her inner-city school, so he now uses her as his whipping post. As if that isn’t bad enough, she manages to survive a gun in her classroom, then breaks it off with her boyfriend and meets a handsome stranger – all in the same day, and not necessarily in that order…
It doesn’t take Carolyn long to figure out what she’s willing to do to help her students succeed, but she’s darned if she knows what to do about the stranger. Especially when she loses his number. Then life throws him in her path again, and she learns that he comes with a brood of crazy sisters. Is she willing to put up with them, for him?
Carolyn does a lot of growing up in Love and Other Subjects, and not all of the lessons she learns are of the easy variety. Her roommates — and friends — are also teachers at the same school, but neither Laura nor Nina have been on the receiving end of the Principal’s high-handed ass-holery, so they can’t really empathize with Carolyn. Nor do they quite get why she’s so interested on the “old” guy. (Yes, the handsome stranger is a bit older than Carolyn, and we all know how relative “old” is to the young…)
Figuring out how to take on the world (or, making your mark on the world) once you’ve left the relative cocoon of college is never an easy thing, as Carolyn finds out, but I loved following along on her adventures. You’re full of hope and optimism, and not quite sure how to handle the events that come hurtling your way, especially when they’re not as hunky-dory as you are… And while Kathleen Shoop makes it all seem so easily conquered, I do know that it always seems easier than it actually is. As Carolyn finds her feet and sets her path, you can’t help but cheer her on and wish her all the best.
I really enjoyed reading Love and Other Subjects, and “watching” it play out in my head. This is one of those stories I wouldn’t mind seeing transferred to the big screen.
drey’s rating: Excellent!
It doesn’t take Carolyn long to figure out what she’s willing to do to help her students succeed, but she’s darned if she knows what to do about the stranger. Especially when she loses his number. Then life throws him in her path again, and she learns that he comes with a brood of crazy sisters. Is she willing to put up with them, for him?
Carolyn does a lot of growing up in Love and Other Subjects, and not all of the lessons she learns are of the easy variety. Her roommates — and friends — are also teachers at the same school, but neither Laura nor Nina have been on the receiving end of the Principal’s high-handed ass-holery, so they can’t really empathize with Carolyn. Nor do they quite get why she’s so interested on the “old” guy. (Yes, the handsome stranger is a bit older than Carolyn, and we all know how relative “old” is to the young…)
Figuring out how to take on the world (or, making your mark on the world) once you’ve left the relative cocoon of college is never an easy thing, as Carolyn finds out, but I loved following along on her adventures. You’re full of hope and optimism, and not quite sure how to handle the events that come hurtling your way, especially when they’re not as hunky-dory as you are… And while Kathleen Shoop makes it all seem so easily conquered, I do know that it always seems easier than it actually is. As Carolyn finds her feet and sets her path, you can’t help but cheer her on and wish her all the best.
I really enjoyed reading Love and Other Subjects, and “watching” it play out in my head. This is one of those stories I wouldn’t mind seeing transferred to the big screen.
drey’s rating: Excellent!
February 28, 2013
Carolyn Jenkins only wants two simple things—to be the best teacher possible and to find love. However, she encounters a nasty principal & an armed student. Determined not to lose sight of her goals, she perseveres. Pulling herself up by her bootstraps, she determines to be a success in her chosen career.
While trying to cultivate a relationship with a new man, she hits the brick wall of reality in her life. She must not only deal with him, but also with his eccentric family. An adult’s life is way different than she’d anticipated. Students act differently than she’d imagined & the support system from her collegues & superiors is non-existent. While leaning on friendships & her aspirations, can Carolyn achieve what she wants from life?
Fueled with humor & a hefty dose of realism, this book was quite a fun read. I especially enjoyed Carolyn’s description of her wound after tangling with a fifth grader. She handles her unkind boss with dignity & grace. It is a wonder that she didn’t slap him multiple times.
Kathleen Shoop definitely surpassed my expectations with regards to this novel. She has a way with words that not only make you feel connected to a character, but to actually enjoy knowing a character. No doubt, Carolyn would succeed as the main character in a series based off her life.
With all the bad press teachers have received in light of the miserable state of public schools, it is refreshing to read fiction based off what they go through on a day to day basis. Usually, the focus is on the students- misunderstood teens & whatnot. Thankfully, Kathleen Shoop ‘gets it’!
Treat yourself to a great read that will make you smile. Add this book to your reading list! I highly recommend it with a 5 out of 5 star rating. You’ll find it at your favorite book seller such as Amazon.
I received 1 eBook in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
While trying to cultivate a relationship with a new man, she hits the brick wall of reality in her life. She must not only deal with him, but also with his eccentric family. An adult’s life is way different than she’d anticipated. Students act differently than she’d imagined & the support system from her collegues & superiors is non-existent. While leaning on friendships & her aspirations, can Carolyn achieve what she wants from life?
Fueled with humor & a hefty dose of realism, this book was quite a fun read. I especially enjoyed Carolyn’s description of her wound after tangling with a fifth grader. She handles her unkind boss with dignity & grace. It is a wonder that she didn’t slap him multiple times.
Kathleen Shoop definitely surpassed my expectations with regards to this novel. She has a way with words that not only make you feel connected to a character, but to actually enjoy knowing a character. No doubt, Carolyn would succeed as the main character in a series based off her life.
With all the bad press teachers have received in light of the miserable state of public schools, it is refreshing to read fiction based off what they go through on a day to day basis. Usually, the focus is on the students- misunderstood teens & whatnot. Thankfully, Kathleen Shoop ‘gets it’!
Treat yourself to a great read that will make you smile. Add this book to your reading list! I highly recommend it with a 5 out of 5 star rating. You’ll find it at your favorite book seller such as Amazon.
I received 1 eBook in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
July 16, 2013
The perfect Summer read!
This is the second book from the author Kathleen Shoop I have had the pleasure of reading. When I first came across the excerpt for this book I was a little iffy on whether I would be interested in this book. I am glad I followed through and finished the book completely as it turned out to be a great read.
The main character Carolyn Jenkins is a teacher who fights to give her students the best education she can, even though the principal has made it almost impossible for her to teach with her sanity intact. She takes the initiative to change the lives of her students even if it might cost her her job. Carolyn likes to analyze others, running with ideas of what their childhoods might have been like, while her soft side helping works on helping those who might need it most.
When it comes to love Carolyn is very sentimental and searching for her soul mate, Alex who isn't the one, has just been dumped. A new love is in the picture but he is turning out to be complicated and Carolyn takes as long as she needs to figure him out. But when it comes to her friends and their opinions on Carolyn's love life they keep it real and don't hold back at times, causing rifts between them. Nina a physical education teacher and Laura who teaches the first grade don't seem to have it as hard as Carolyn for obvious reasons, yet they share a close friendship, sharing an apartment as well as teaching at the same school..
I really like the main character Carolyn and how Shoop portrayed her as very level-headed. I found all the character very interesting, some more quirky than others, including those students highlighted in Carolyn's class. I was left with a sense that Shoop might have had some teaching in her background, which was verified later. I have found Shoop to be a great author who totally immerses herself in her characters and I am looking forward to what she has in the works for the future.
This is the second book from the author Kathleen Shoop I have had the pleasure of reading. When I first came across the excerpt for this book I was a little iffy on whether I would be interested in this book. I am glad I followed through and finished the book completely as it turned out to be a great read.
The main character Carolyn Jenkins is a teacher who fights to give her students the best education she can, even though the principal has made it almost impossible for her to teach with her sanity intact. She takes the initiative to change the lives of her students even if it might cost her her job. Carolyn likes to analyze others, running with ideas of what their childhoods might have been like, while her soft side helping works on helping those who might need it most.
When it comes to love Carolyn is very sentimental and searching for her soul mate, Alex who isn't the one, has just been dumped. A new love is in the picture but he is turning out to be complicated and Carolyn takes as long as she needs to figure him out. But when it comes to her friends and their opinions on Carolyn's love life they keep it real and don't hold back at times, causing rifts between them. Nina a physical education teacher and Laura who teaches the first grade don't seem to have it as hard as Carolyn for obvious reasons, yet they share a close friendship, sharing an apartment as well as teaching at the same school..
I really like the main character Carolyn and how Shoop portrayed her as very level-headed. I found all the character very interesting, some more quirky than others, including those students highlighted in Carolyn's class. I was left with a sense that Shoop might have had some teaching in her background, which was verified later. I have found Shoop to be a great author who totally immerses herself in her characters and I am looking forward to what she has in the works for the future.
January 24, 2013
Carolyn Jenkins wants only to find true love and be a great teacher. She struggles with both. Carolyn teaches at a school where guns and violence occur often and the students struggle in every subject. But she refuses to give-up on her students and goes above and beyond to help them learn. Carolyn’s love life seems to take off when she meets Jeep (yes, his real name), but of course it can’t be easy. When Carolyn meet.
Jeep’s six sisters, all named Mary, the relationship heads towards failure.
I started this book just after the school shooting in Connecticut and was not sure I could finish it. The first chapter has a young boy pulling a gun on a fellow classmate. I then decided I would read a little bit farther to see where it would head hoping for the best. I finished it and am so glad that I stuck with it.
This is a romance story, but more of a story of a new teacher who goes above and beyond to let her students succeed without forcing them to give up who they are. Every student she has in her classroom has an issue. The issues go from parents who have drug problems to not being able to read. With every issue Carolyn’s strong will and strength shine through. I also enjoyed seeing Carolyn learn to relate and understand the students better after she visits every students house.
Of course, there is Carolyn and Jeep’s romance. I wasn’t sure at first if this would be a relationship or a one night stand. When it turned into a true relationship I was thrilled. I was also glad when she kicked him to the curb when his psychotic sisters made fun of her and he sided with them not sticking up for her. The ending was the best. LOVED IT!
I highly recommend Love and Other Subjects. It is easy, fun, witty, and eye opening to some of the everyday problems teachers have to deal with.
Jeep’s six sisters, all named Mary, the relationship heads towards failure.
I started this book just after the school shooting in Connecticut and was not sure I could finish it. The first chapter has a young boy pulling a gun on a fellow classmate. I then decided I would read a little bit farther to see where it would head hoping for the best. I finished it and am so glad that I stuck with it.
This is a romance story, but more of a story of a new teacher who goes above and beyond to let her students succeed without forcing them to give up who they are. Every student she has in her classroom has an issue. The issues go from parents who have drug problems to not being able to read. With every issue Carolyn’s strong will and strength shine through. I also enjoyed seeing Carolyn learn to relate and understand the students better after she visits every students house.
Of course, there is Carolyn and Jeep’s romance. I wasn’t sure at first if this would be a relationship or a one night stand. When it turned into a true relationship I was thrilled. I was also glad when she kicked him to the curb when his psychotic sisters made fun of her and he sided with them not sticking up for her. The ending was the best. LOVED IT!
I highly recommend Love and Other Subjects. It is easy, fun, witty, and eye opening to some of the everyday problems teachers have to deal with.
January 29, 2013
From Lilac Wolf and Stuff
My first impression when I sat down to read this story was joy that it is a novel! My 2nd impression was, I love Carolyn! She is goofy, struggling with her career, and a bit socially awkward. I'm VERY socially awkward and I can't seem to figure out what I want to do with myself. Granted, she knew she wanted to be a teacher who makes a difference, but between the students and the principal, she was struggling through her first year.
When the story started, I kept waiting for her to quit and find a new career. She didn't seem to be a good fit, and she kept butting heads with Klein, the principal. She'd have to deal with him and then her students would do something horrifying. The stress she was under, I just gained so much respect for this character because she never gave up. She had a goal, and fought for it.
One evening, after having been shot in the foot with a BB gun, she met Jeep (aka Money). He was handsome and his very touch sent shock-waves through her body. She felt a "soul-slip"; which I think is the least cheesy soul-mate thing ever. But even this isn't perfect. They both keep messing up, too stubborn. I'll give him credit, he was very sweet and natural with her.
It's also really funny in many parts. Yes, crude, but I couldn't help but snort-laugh when she woke herself with very loud farts during her first sleep-over with Jeep. You end up wanting what's best for her, but who knows what that is? You just have to keep reading. I was nearly late for work last night, I just had to finish! lol
My first impression when I sat down to read this story was joy that it is a novel! My 2nd impression was, I love Carolyn! She is goofy, struggling with her career, and a bit socially awkward. I'm VERY socially awkward and I can't seem to figure out what I want to do with myself. Granted, she knew she wanted to be a teacher who makes a difference, but between the students and the principal, she was struggling through her first year.
"I made people laugh. Not because I was witty, but because I was ridiculous." - Carolyn in Love and Other Subjects.
When the story started, I kept waiting for her to quit and find a new career. She didn't seem to be a good fit, and she kept butting heads with Klein, the principal. She'd have to deal with him and then her students would do something horrifying. The stress she was under, I just gained so much respect for this character because she never gave up. She had a goal, and fought for it.
One evening, after having been shot in the foot with a BB gun, she met Jeep (aka Money). He was handsome and his very touch sent shock-waves through her body. She felt a "soul-slip"; which I think is the least cheesy soul-mate thing ever. But even this isn't perfect. They both keep messing up, too stubborn. I'll give him credit, he was very sweet and natural with her.
It's also really funny in many parts. Yes, crude, but I couldn't help but snort-laugh when she woke herself with very loud farts during her first sleep-over with Jeep. You end up wanting what's best for her, but who knows what that is? You just have to keep reading. I was nearly late for work last night, I just had to finish! lol
February 4, 2014
I found this book interesting because I just recently completed my first year teaching. The first year teaching is exactly as described in this book. Teachers have a difficult time deciding that they should be a teacher only and not a friend to the students. It is hard to learn to demand respect and discipline. But once Carolyn has it figured out, the kids respect their teacher and the classroom, and will stand up for both.
Several hilarious situations played out in the most embarrassing ways throughout the book. Friendships were real. There was anger between friends, but in the end, friendship won. One boy in the class eventually has to be removed because of serious issues. This didn't use to happen in the classroom, but it is more commonplace today than we'd like to believe. The beginning scene caught me on the edge of my seat. The relationship between Carolyn (teacher) and her dad was one that every girl dreams of having with her father.
Unfortunately, there was unneccesary cussing. Teachers and friends partied a lot throughout the book. One or two drinking scenes would have been enough. Also, there was drug use in the book. Ironically, Carolyn judged someone for using, yet she smoked weed herself without abandon. One person throughout the book led you to believe she was virgin material, but Laura who claimed to be pure had a secret that was revealed in the end. I would have liked to believe she was just pure. It would have been nice to have someone remain innocent throughout the book. There was a loose end at the end of Love and Other Subjects that wasn't tied together. Perhaps that question will be answered in a future book.
Overall, the book was enjoyable and I am glad I read it. Come visit me at http://www.heartofaphilanthropist.com to see my other reviews.
Several hilarious situations played out in the most embarrassing ways throughout the book. Friendships were real. There was anger between friends, but in the end, friendship won. One boy in the class eventually has to be removed because of serious issues. This didn't use to happen in the classroom, but it is more commonplace today than we'd like to believe. The beginning scene caught me on the edge of my seat. The relationship between Carolyn (teacher) and her dad was one that every girl dreams of having with her father.
Unfortunately, there was unneccesary cussing. Teachers and friends partied a lot throughout the book. One or two drinking scenes would have been enough. Also, there was drug use in the book. Ironically, Carolyn judged someone for using, yet she smoked weed herself without abandon. One person throughout the book led you to believe she was virgin material, but Laura who claimed to be pure had a secret that was revealed in the end. I would have liked to believe she was just pure. It would have been nice to have someone remain innocent throughout the book. There was a loose end at the end of Love and Other Subjects that wasn't tied together. Perhaps that question will be answered in a future book.
Overall, the book was enjoyable and I am glad I read it. Come visit me at http://www.heartofaphilanthropist.com to see my other reviews.
January 25, 2013
With recent events in the news about guns in schools, imagine my shock when the first few pages of this book were about a school shooting...I almost turned off my Kindle. I'm glad I didn't. Ms. Shoop's novel is an excellent portrayal of an inner city school and the "family" of educators, their trials, failures, successes and the love most teachers feel for their students and how hard it is in today's world to teach effectively in a world of red tape, social and emotional issues. Ms. Shoop delves deeply into the main character's psyche and I was immediately held captive by how Carolyn, a first-year 5th/6th grade teacher deals with self-confidence issues both in and out of school and how she struggles to be an effective teacher-to reach these kids who don't seem to care-and wrestles with the thought she may have chosen the wrong career.
Her two roommates are also teachers and all three are completely different, yet they learn from one another even though they tend to argue quite a bit. It is witty, fun and deals with important issues teachers are confronted with every day. The only criticism I can give about this book is that Ms. Shoop does not tie all the ends together--we never really find out why the "evil" principal is the way he his (she suggests there are reasons, but doesn't divulge the answers) and the love story with Jeep and Carolyn, in my opinion, could have had a bit more "spark". I'm a diehard romantic. I have, and will recommend this book--there are a few errors throughout, but not enough to take offense. Kathleen Shoop has a winner on her hands! I would have liked to give it 4 1/2 stars.
Her two roommates are also teachers and all three are completely different, yet they learn from one another even though they tend to argue quite a bit. It is witty, fun and deals with important issues teachers are confronted with every day. The only criticism I can give about this book is that Ms. Shoop does not tie all the ends together--we never really find out why the "evil" principal is the way he his (she suggests there are reasons, but doesn't divulge the answers) and the love story with Jeep and Carolyn, in my opinion, could have had a bit more "spark". I'm a diehard romantic. I have, and will recommend this book--there are a few errors throughout, but not enough to take offense. Kathleen Shoop has a winner on her hands! I would have liked to give it 4 1/2 stars.
December 18, 2012
I absolutely loved this story! Loved the romance, of course...but,
what I really loved was the integration of such a
meaningful, rich portrayal of a new teacher's classroom experience in
a tough school with the mysterious and exciting tale of this young idealistic career woman's quest for
true love!
The conversations and dialogue were very intelligent, witty and
meaningful. I think the story showcases the realities of teaching and
the journey of self discovery that most people take after graduating
college or completion of graduate work while pursuing their career and
life goals.
I was very moved by Carolyn's demonstration of strength (strong will)
in the face of the true problems she encountered everyday in the
classroom, as many teachers find themselves in such educational
situations dealing with life issues that affect behavior at school and
the ability to concentrate on learning. We saw Carolyn evolve along
with her students.
Love (the idea of it and the reality of it) were dealt with on so many
levels. The book showed us the paths taken to achieve love and respect--by
each student to the other, to Carolyn the teacher; to Carolyn the
friend, roommate, colleague; and to Carolyn, the woman discovering
the essentials to
understanding how to share her life with someone else.
Of course, I fell in love with Jeep the first time they met at the bar, following the description of their encounter. The author does a great job of keeping the reader guessing after each verbal exchange between Jeep and Carolyn. Will love triumph? Find out!
Excellent read!
what I really loved was the integration of such a
meaningful, rich portrayal of a new teacher's classroom experience in
a tough school with the mysterious and exciting tale of this young idealistic career woman's quest for
true love!
The conversations and dialogue were very intelligent, witty and
meaningful. I think the story showcases the realities of teaching and
the journey of self discovery that most people take after graduating
college or completion of graduate work while pursuing their career and
life goals.
I was very moved by Carolyn's demonstration of strength (strong will)
in the face of the true problems she encountered everyday in the
classroom, as many teachers find themselves in such educational
situations dealing with life issues that affect behavior at school and
the ability to concentrate on learning. We saw Carolyn evolve along
with her students.
Love (the idea of it and the reality of it) were dealt with on so many
levels. The book showed us the paths taken to achieve love and respect--by
each student to the other, to Carolyn the teacher; to Carolyn the
friend, roommate, colleague; and to Carolyn, the woman discovering
the essentials to
understanding how to share her life with someone else.
Of course, I fell in love with Jeep the first time they met at the bar, following the description of their encounter. The author does a great job of keeping the reader guessing after each verbal exchange between Jeep and Carolyn. Will love triumph? Find out!
Excellent read!
April 20, 2013
Love and Other subjects by Kathleen Shoop is not your average romcom. Carolyn Jenkins wants to make a difference. She really wants to give the kids she teaches a headstart in life. She’s a driven person, but also rather insecure and over-aware of her own faults. And there are some very difficult characters at school to deal with, not least of which is the Principal. Her home life isn’t much easier. She’s recently broken up with Alex and isn’t finding her friends Nina and Laura a whole lot of comfort at the moment. The fact she’s very socially gauche doesn’t help. Can there really be a man out there who can take her for what she is and love her? The wonderfully named Jeep might fill this role but Carolyn has so many other things to try and cope with. Does she have time to work on a relationship too.
This is a very readable and entertaining story. Carolyn is an idealistic young teacher juggling enthusiasm and self-doubt. Totally human. She’ll do anything for her kids to give them a chance in life but doesn’t look after her own interests at times. She’s very well portrayed and is a totally likeable heroine. The love interest, Jeep, is intriguing. Wealthy, surrounded by off-the-wall sisters (all with Mary as the first half of their name), and stubborn, he’s not the easiest of men but he’s a genuine enough guy. And he has a brother in law called Ford. There are lots of touches of humour like this that make the story so enchanting. It’s earthy too in places, which matches our heroine and adds a certain amount of gritty honesty to the book.
Definitely one to read.
This is a very readable and entertaining story. Carolyn is an idealistic young teacher juggling enthusiasm and self-doubt. Totally human. She’ll do anything for her kids to give them a chance in life but doesn’t look after her own interests at times. She’s very well portrayed and is a totally likeable heroine. The love interest, Jeep, is intriguing. Wealthy, surrounded by off-the-wall sisters (all with Mary as the first half of their name), and stubborn, he’s not the easiest of men but he’s a genuine enough guy. And he has a brother in law called Ford. There are lots of touches of humour like this that make the story so enchanting. It’s earthy too in places, which matches our heroine and adds a certain amount of gritty honesty to the book.
Definitely one to read.
January 29, 2014
This book had me intrigued from the beginning. Carolyn is a teacher and she is fighting a what seems to be losing battle with her boss. Carolyn wishes to see changes and she takes control of what must be done. The principal is a no-gooder who is no help when it comes to her awful students that she has to deal with on an everyday basis. They are just so nasty to her. I think I would lose my wits about me! Oh and the story gets deeper as Carolyn truly starts to show her true colors and the humor doesn’t hurt either. I was happy that the romance part of the novel was kept very PG-13. Even though there was kissing, there was no sex. This makes it so even a younger reader could have the possibility of enjoying Kathleen Shoop’s work just as much as I do.
The characters are very believable and this was just one of those stories where I just wanted to be transported into the pages. The dialogue was great and the character dynamics together were incredible. This is a rare one when it comes to romance that is light and heavy at the same time. It is a very pleasurable read and I recommend it to anyone looking for just that. It seems I have been reading a lot of self discovery novels lately and I have been falling in love with them. This story sucks you right in with it’s characters, humor, and terrific interactions in the scenes. It will not disappoint you! I promise!
I received this book to review through Beck Valley Books Book Tours, all the opinions above are 100% my own.
The characters are very believable and this was just one of those stories where I just wanted to be transported into the pages. The dialogue was great and the character dynamics together were incredible. This is a rare one when it comes to romance that is light and heavy at the same time. It is a very pleasurable read and I recommend it to anyone looking for just that. It seems I have been reading a lot of self discovery novels lately and I have been falling in love with them. This story sucks you right in with it’s characters, humor, and terrific interactions in the scenes. It will not disappoint you! I promise!
I received this book to review through Beck Valley Books Book Tours, all the opinions above are 100% my own.
May 7, 2013
It's been a long time since I stayed up until 4 a.m. to read, but that's what happened when I picked up Love and Other Subjects. I couldn't put it down. Kathleen Shoop has great characters, an engaging and believable story, and a way with words. I loved this book.
Carolyn is working in a high-risk public school with challenging students and the devil in disguise as a principal. Boy could I relate. Every one of Ms. Shoop's school scenes brought back memories and rang true for me. I was once twenty-three-year-old Carolyn, and believe me, Kathleen Shoop nailed it. Right down to the caring janitor to the snarky school secretary. Her portrayal of the challenges of teaching high-risk students, the doubts of a first-year teacher, and the misuse of power by school principals is true to life.
The scenes with Carolyn's love interest, Jeep, were great too. Carolyn has a "soul slip" when she meets Jeep, AKA Money, and Shoop's writing sucks the reader right into the relationship, allowing us to feel their strong connection.
I love a book that combines humor with real-life drama and romance. Life as a teacher, friendship highs and lows, romantic ups and downs, and memorable characters made this a book I didn't want to end. H-Factor: 10+. Crap Quotient: 0. (Read the book, and you'll understand what I'm talking about.) This is chick lit at its best.
Carolyn is working in a high-risk public school with challenging students and the devil in disguise as a principal. Boy could I relate. Every one of Ms. Shoop's school scenes brought back memories and rang true for me. I was once twenty-three-year-old Carolyn, and believe me, Kathleen Shoop nailed it. Right down to the caring janitor to the snarky school secretary. Her portrayal of the challenges of teaching high-risk students, the doubts of a first-year teacher, and the misuse of power by school principals is true to life.
The scenes with Carolyn's love interest, Jeep, were great too. Carolyn has a "soul slip" when she meets Jeep, AKA Money, and Shoop's writing sucks the reader right into the relationship, allowing us to feel their strong connection.
I love a book that combines humor with real-life drama and romance. Life as a teacher, friendship highs and lows, romantic ups and downs, and memorable characters made this a book I didn't want to end. H-Factor: 10+. Crap Quotient: 0. (Read the book, and you'll understand what I'm talking about.) This is chick lit at its best.
July 16, 2013
Thank you to BookSparks PR and Kathleen Shoop for sending me this novel to share with you. Have you ever wondered about what it is like to teach in a classroom?
Synopsis:
Carolyn is starting her first year of teaching in a new school in the D.C. area. She shares her experiences with her good friends Nina and Laura. School is not what Carolyn thought it would be. She has no support from her boss Principal Klein. How will she reach her students? Her love life seems to be going stale with current boyfriend Alex. Carolyn decides to end it and meets this great guy Jeep. What is he all about? Then there are the challenges of reaching her students in her room. Will she survive the year?
My Thoughts:
I didn’t know if I would like this novel initially. I did come to like it very much! I think for me the connection to education helped me relate to the character of Carolyn. Unless you have worked in education you have no idea what it is like for teachers in the Public School System. I also you don’t usually see this side of education because teaching in the inner city schools is even harder than the nice suburb schools. This is something I could totally relate.
Klein is very believable as the antagonist in the novel. I am sure that the author did a lot of research to see how a principal could become this type of character in this story.
Synopsis:
Carolyn is starting her first year of teaching in a new school in the D.C. area. She shares her experiences with her good friends Nina and Laura. School is not what Carolyn thought it would be. She has no support from her boss Principal Klein. How will she reach her students? Her love life seems to be going stale with current boyfriend Alex. Carolyn decides to end it and meets this great guy Jeep. What is he all about? Then there are the challenges of reaching her students in her room. Will she survive the year?
My Thoughts:
I didn’t know if I would like this novel initially. I did come to like it very much! I think for me the connection to education helped me relate to the character of Carolyn. Unless you have worked in education you have no idea what it is like for teachers in the Public School System. I also you don’t usually see this side of education because teaching in the inner city schools is even harder than the nice suburb schools. This is something I could totally relate.
Klein is very believable as the antagonist in the novel. I am sure that the author did a lot of research to see how a principal could become this type of character in this story.
January 30, 2014
Love and Other Subjects is one of the best books I've read in a long time. This author had me literally laughing out loud! You know that moment where you want to share what you just read with someone close to you but they wouldn't get the joke because they don't know the character? I had several moments like that. I felt like I had an inside joke with this book. I mean "blow ass"? If that doesn't make you laugh then you have no sense of humor.
The main character Carolyn Jenkins is the type of person I would hang out with and not because we are close in age but because she is very down to earth. She was also a good example of how your childhood and your relationship with your parents can affect you love life. She wasn't the domestic type of girl but It seemed her mother wasn't either. Her bond was with her father which could explain why she felt a "soul slip" with Jeep aka Money. Being that he's older than her.
Carolyn's down to earth personality didn't help when it came to her career. I cringed at the stuff she put up with with her boss Klein.He wasn't the only person she needed to put her foot down with. Her ex Alex had some nerve showing up In her bed nude and Jeep's sister where on another level with there nosed turned up and Carolyn.
I definitely recommend this book to anyone looking for a great comedic novel.
The main character Carolyn Jenkins is the type of person I would hang out with and not because we are close in age but because she is very down to earth. She was also a good example of how your childhood and your relationship with your parents can affect you love life. She wasn't the domestic type of girl but It seemed her mother wasn't either. Her bond was with her father which could explain why she felt a "soul slip" with Jeep aka Money. Being that he's older than her.
Carolyn's down to earth personality didn't help when it came to her career. I cringed at the stuff she put up with with her boss Klein.He wasn't the only person she needed to put her foot down with. Her ex Alex had some nerve showing up In her bed nude and Jeep's sister where on another level with there nosed turned up and Carolyn.
I definitely recommend this book to anyone looking for a great comedic novel.
January 20, 2014
This book starts off with a bang (for those that have read it already, you know get it, right?) and just keeps getting better. I love that the character, Carolyn, feels so believable. I know that I would feel the same way if I were just starting out as a teacher dealing with some troubled students, a nasty piece of work for a principal. And, oh!, that secretary or receptionist, whatever she is. Now she is a real winner. She made me hate her right from the moment she walked into the room.
Kathleen Shoop is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors. Her characters are all multi-layered and believable, her books always have such heart in them, and her writing just flows along so easily, effortlessly carrying the reader along to the end.
I recommend this book to anyone that enjoys reading about the struggle to find your own place in the world. The struggle of trying to define yourself and discover who you want to be. To anyone that loves engaging stories, lovable characters, hilarious happenings, and terrific writing, then this book is for you.
Disclosure: I received a copy of the ebook free for review purposes. Regardless, all opinions are my own. I was not required to write a positive review.
Kathleen Shoop is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors. Her characters are all multi-layered and believable, her books always have such heart in them, and her writing just flows along so easily, effortlessly carrying the reader along to the end.
I recommend this book to anyone that enjoys reading about the struggle to find your own place in the world. The struggle of trying to define yourself and discover who you want to be. To anyone that loves engaging stories, lovable characters, hilarious happenings, and terrific writing, then this book is for you.
Disclosure: I received a copy of the ebook free for review purposes. Regardless, all opinions are my own. I was not required to write a positive review.
January 31, 2014
This is the story of a brand new teacher attempting to find her way in an inner city school. The principal is a guy from literally hell who really gives her a tough time. The kids-well-lets just say they are a challenge until she finally figures out how to reach them. She lives with 2 other teachers who are her best friends-and sometimes her worst enemies. Carolyn Jenkins needs to find herself!
When Carolyn meets up with an older man in a bar one evening she is in love-but doesn't trust herself enough. She does get rid of the boyfriend of many years thankfully. She meets his six nutty as fruitcake sisters and breaks up with Mr. Right but is miserable. One of her roomies is now engaged and she is not talking to the other. Can anything go right in her life?
YES-and if you are sentimental (which I am) tears should be flowing at the happy ending. I read this book very quickly-I kept wanting to know what was going to happen next. Kathleen Shoop has written a book which will resonate with many readers on many different levels. 5 Star-Definitely!Love and Other Subjects
When Carolyn meets up with an older man in a bar one evening she is in love-but doesn't trust herself enough. She does get rid of the boyfriend of many years thankfully. She meets his six nutty as fruitcake sisters and breaks up with Mr. Right but is miserable. One of her roomies is now engaged and she is not talking to the other. Can anything go right in her life?
YES-and if you are sentimental (which I am) tears should be flowing at the happy ending. I read this book very quickly-I kept wanting to know what was going to happen next. Kathleen Shoop has written a book which will resonate with many readers on many different levels. 5 Star-Definitely!Love and Other Subjects
February 4, 2014
Carolyn, the main character of the book, kind of reminded myself of me just a little bit. She is so very unorganized, just like me. She is unsure of herself most of the time, as am I. She wants to help people, especially her students bur she feels like she is unprepared and doesn't exactly know what to do. That is why I loved this book so much. I could relate to it so much. And I love that when I am reading a book.
The relationships in the book were real and easy to relate to. I felt like this could be a book of nonfiction because all of the people felt real to me. The relationship that Carolyn had with her students and colleagues, the relationship that Carolyn had with her two best friends, the relationships she had with Alex and Jeep. They were all so well-written and so very real to me. But most of all, the relationship Carolyn had with herself. Her second guessing, her timidness, yet she never gave up and always did what she could to help her students and to make them better.
This book was very interesting to me. It was hard for me to put down. I had to know how it would end. I was intrigued from word one. It is a very good book. Full of drama, friendships, love, humor and just a great story. I urge you to check it out. You will not be disappointed.
The relationships in the book were real and easy to relate to. I felt like this could be a book of nonfiction because all of the people felt real to me. The relationship that Carolyn had with her students and colleagues, the relationship that Carolyn had with her two best friends, the relationships she had with Alex and Jeep. They were all so well-written and so very real to me. But most of all, the relationship Carolyn had with herself. Her second guessing, her timidness, yet she never gave up and always did what she could to help her students and to make them better.
This book was very interesting to me. It was hard for me to put down. I had to know how it would end. I was intrigued from word one. It is a very good book. Full of drama, friendships, love, humor and just a great story. I urge you to check it out. You will not be disappointed.
January 24, 2014
Love and Other Subjects by Kathleen Shoop begins with Carolyn’s struggles as a teacher. Her boss makes the reader feel that he is somewhat determined to put an end to her career while in the midst of growing classroom violence. Carolyn wishes to see changes and she takes control of what must be done.
I did have a few laughs when Miss FBI (Carolyn) meets Mr. Money (Jeep) (as if) Then she shows him her bullet wound to prove that she is working for the FBI. The way she felt for him was really what hooked me into finishing the story.
Carolyn has a great sense of humor, at least, I thought so. Some lines were just superb. I mean, like, when a man lies beside a woman causing her insides to flip out of her body – that has to be some awesome guy. No matter how many kisses do happen, there is no sex. At some point, it kept me thinking even more. Nina and Laura had nice lines in this story. I found that it there is a nice flow in the story with me smiling at many of the scenes. The dialogue is well put together. The ending is great. I recommend this book for the great pleasure in reading something that could be real on this planet but rare when it comes to romance.
Adriana LG
I did have a few laughs when Miss FBI (Carolyn) meets Mr. Money (Jeep) (as if) Then she shows him her bullet wound to prove that she is working for the FBI. The way she felt for him was really what hooked me into finishing the story.
Carolyn has a great sense of humor, at least, I thought so. Some lines were just superb. I mean, like, when a man lies beside a woman causing her insides to flip out of her body – that has to be some awesome guy. No matter how many kisses do happen, there is no sex. At some point, it kept me thinking even more. Nina and Laura had nice lines in this story. I found that it there is a nice flow in the story with me smiling at many of the scenes. The dialogue is well put together. The ending is great. I recommend this book for the great pleasure in reading something that could be real on this planet but rare when it comes to romance.
Adriana LG
January 7, 2014
Carolyn Jenkins has to face some harsh realities about teaching, her love life, and growing up. Starting out with a classroom incident, a tragically ruined pair of footwear, a crazy cast of colleagues and an un-love interest, Carolyn feels that she might not belong in her life. Then enters "Money". I can't say I liked him at first, but his character seemed to grow on me.
Having faced young students as a new teacher, I think the beginning of the book was my worst fears come true! Struggling with the realities of hardened kids, a tough boss juxtaposed with teaching ideals, Kathleen Shoop created a character we can't help but want to root for. Albeit socially clumsy, Carolyn has her heart in the right place. I so wanted her to take her talents to another school where he enthusiasm would have been appreciated.
Overall Love and Other Subjects wasn't just about Mr. Right... or Mr. Right Now. It also extended to Carolyn's passion for making a difference in her students' lives and ultimately in living her own life as well.
I received a copy in exchange for my honest review
Having faced young students as a new teacher, I think the beginning of the book was my worst fears come true! Struggling with the realities of hardened kids, a tough boss juxtaposed with teaching ideals, Kathleen Shoop created a character we can't help but want to root for. Albeit socially clumsy, Carolyn has her heart in the right place. I so wanted her to take her talents to another school where he enthusiasm would have been appreciated.
Overall Love and Other Subjects wasn't just about Mr. Right... or Mr. Right Now. It also extended to Carolyn's passion for making a difference in her students' lives and ultimately in living her own life as well.
I received a copy in exchange for my honest review
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