What do you think?
Rate this book
I Am a Pencil: A Teacher, His Kids, and Their World of Stories
"Swope's marvelous, moving book revives the teaching memoir . . . And takes it to new realms of tenderness, insight and humanity." -Phillip Lopate
In 1995, writer Sam Swope gave a workshop to a third-grade class in a Queens school bursting at the seams with kids from around the world. So enchanted was he with his twenty-eight students that he "adopted" the class for three years, teaching them to write stories and poems. I Am a Pencil is the story of his years with this very special group of students. It is as funny, warm, heartbreaking, and hopeful as the children themselves.
Swope follows his colorful troop of resilient writers from grades three to five, coaxing out their stories, watching talents blossom, explode, and sometimes fizzle. We meet Cindy (whose mom was a Taoist priestess), Brian (who cannot seem to tell the truth), and Lourdes (a wacky Dominican chatterbox). Preparing his students for a world of adult dangers, Swope is astonished by their courage, their humanity, and most of all, their strength. I Am a Pencil is a book about the power and magic of imagination, providing a unique window on the immigrant experience as seen through the lives of children.
In 1995, writer Sam Swope gave a workshop to a third-grade class in a Queens school bursting at the seams with kids from around the world. So enchanted was he with his twenty-eight students that he "adopted" the class for three years, teaching them to write stories and poems. I Am a Pencil is the story of his years with this very special group of students. It is as funny, warm, heartbreaking, and hopeful as the children themselves.
Swope follows his colorful troop of resilient writers from grades three to five, coaxing out their stories, watching talents blossom, explode, and sometimes fizzle. We meet Cindy (whose mom was a Taoist priestess), Brian (who cannot seem to tell the truth), and Lourdes (a wacky Dominican chatterbox). Preparing his students for a world of adult dangers, Swope is astonished by their courage, their humanity, and most of all, their strength. I Am a Pencil is a book about the power and magic of imagination, providing a unique window on the immigrant experience as seen through the lives of children.
320 pages, Paperback
First published July 3, 2004
22 people are currently reading
402 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
May 28, 2018
From the perspective of a novice teacher, I went into this book thinking it would be more focused around a classroom teacher and the students around it. It's not entirely. It's about an established writer who comes in and volunteers his time teaching writing to the (mostly) same group of students from third through fifth grade. There's no doubt in my mind that Sam Swope loved those children, as much as any teacher would love the children in their classroom. However, the content of the book is bogged down with many of the students writing. About halfway through, I started skipping through their writing and just reading the content of the story. I understand why he included it, although I wish he might have included the writings as a separate appendix (for those who wished to reference it).
It's evident several times in the book that the author is not trained as a teacher, and at times I found myself critical of the attitude he would sometimes take towards situations outside of his control. (Pleading with the teacher to take the kids on their field trip despite it raining, being petty and frustrated when children don't open up to him, are just two examples). Due to the nature of Mr. Swope's writing lessons ending at the end of fifth grade, we are left wondering what became of many of these children. (His epilogue, unfortunately, doesn't address too much, and that's because the students moved onto different middle schools for sixth grade).
Overall I liked it, but I didn't find myself loving it.
It's evident several times in the book that the author is not trained as a teacher, and at times I found myself critical of the attitude he would sometimes take towards situations outside of his control. (Pleading with the teacher to take the kids on their field trip despite it raining, being petty and frustrated when children don't open up to him, are just two examples). Due to the nature of Mr. Swope's writing lessons ending at the end of fifth grade, we are left wondering what became of many of these children. (His epilogue, unfortunately, doesn't address too much, and that's because the students moved onto different middle schools for sixth grade).
Overall I liked it, but I didn't find myself loving it.
November 25, 2012
I admire the author for his commitment to these students. He tutored them in writing for three years. Surely they benefited from his devotion and I can't think of a class who wouldn't benefit from a long term artist-in-residence who pours so much into a class. It's clear Swope cares deeply for his students and he goes to great lengths to help them have opportunities to enter good middle schools. Swope also brings his class and their families to life for the reader.
Somehow the book fell somewhat flat for me in spite of the positives. I'm not sure why. Swope was honest about his shortcomings as a teacher since he's not trained as such. He does show growth and has some wonderful ideas for inspiring his students. However, sometimes his ego is too tied into the children's opinions of him. I appreciate his honesty with regard to this as well but I think that more than anything else put me off a bit.
Somehow the book fell somewhat flat for me in spite of the positives. I'm not sure why. Swope was honest about his shortcomings as a teacher since he's not trained as such. He does show growth and has some wonderful ideas for inspiring his students. However, sometimes his ego is too tied into the children's opinions of him. I appreciate his honesty with regard to this as well but I think that more than anything else put me off a bit.
Read
June 20, 2017Sorry for the length review but this book was fantastic. If you're looking for a good summer reading, THIS IS IT.
Great book about a writer who did a writing workshop with a group of immigrant students for three consecutive years (3rd-5th grade for the kids). The book has writing samples from the kids every chapter, which was helpful for reference. Because the author was not a certified teacher, his reflection of the kids and their writing didn't include that much reference to teaching theories or teaching methods. HOWEVER this book did reiterate the importance of knowing your students, which is something we talk about a lot in SED.
And it was evident why this was relevant to writing in particular; many of the writing pieces the students produced reflected their lives at home, their inner turmoil, their raw emotions. The author not only worked on writing with the students, he sincerely cared for the students as individuals. He made writing fun for them, and at the end of 5th grade, he was able to collaborate with a publisher to compile the writing pieces into A BOOK that the kids got to take home. I LOVE THAT IDEA.
Great book about a writer who did a writing workshop with a group of immigrant students for three consecutive years (3rd-5th grade for the kids). The book has writing samples from the kids every chapter, which was helpful for reference. Because the author was not a certified teacher, his reflection of the kids and their writing didn't include that much reference to teaching theories or teaching methods. HOWEVER this book did reiterate the importance of knowing your students, which is something we talk about a lot in SED.
And it was evident why this was relevant to writing in particular; many of the writing pieces the students produced reflected their lives at home, their inner turmoil, their raw emotions. The author not only worked on writing with the students, he sincerely cared for the students as individuals. He made writing fun for them, and at the end of 5th grade, he was able to collaborate with a publisher to compile the writing pieces into A BOOK that the kids got to take home. I LOVE THAT IDEA.
October 1, 2008
The author is rather judgmental towards the parents of his students. Rather bold for a man living alone with a cat. Also, while he tries to seem very open to other cultures and religions, his actions seem to indicate he laughing about them behind his hand. I think this was an interesting concept and I enjoyed hearing about the different kids and their different backgrounds. I really wanted to know what happened to them down the road and you didn't get any of that. Not awful, but I probably wouldn't recommend it.
September 6, 2012
I really wanted to like this book and had it on my Amazon wish list for some time. Then I received it for Christmas. Alas, I found the tone off putting and the teacher somewhat self-righteous. The anecdotes were overly long and seemingly aimless at times. Maybe I was hoping for too much.
July 10, 2012
I read this almost ten years ago and wanted to revisit, since my own kids are the age of Sam's students in the book now and are becoming writers in their own right. Just as good on the second read!
September 28, 2014
I really enjoyed reading this book. The stories and poems the students were able to create are amazing.
February 1, 2021
Eu sou um Lápis é um livro de Sam Swope, traduzido por Lucília Filipe, que ganhou os prémios Book for a Better Life Award (2004), Christopher Award (2005) e foi nomeado para melhor livro de 2004 pela revista Publishers Weekly.
Sam escrevia livros para crianças, quando foi convidado para dirigir uma oficina de escrita com uma turma do 3º ano, em Queens. Esta turma de 28 alunos, filhos, em grande parte de imigrantes, veio conferir um novo sentido à sua vida, ao ponto de escrever este livro sobre esta fantástica experiência.
Mr. Swope, como era tratado pelas crianças, conseguiu despertar-lhes o gosto pela escrita, de uma forma gradual, ensinando-os a pensar, a observar tudo à sua volta, a ver para lá do que está à sua volta, a escolher as palavras, a extravasar os sentimentos e emoções.
Nem sempre esta tarefa se revelou fácil, esbarrou contra muitas paredes. Cada um tinha a sua vida, a sua família, os seus problemas, os seus medos e os seus anseios. Mas, Mr. Swope nunca desistiu, ouvia-os, compreendia-os ou não, ensinava-os e repreendia-os quando assim era necessário. Muitas vezes, sentiu o desapontamento e o desânimo tomarem conta de si. Mas persistiu. Estas crianças, cada uma à sua maneira e com as suas características muito peculiares, despertaram nele a atenção, a esperança e os afetos.
Ao longo de três anos, através dos imensos diálogos que manobrava de forma exímia de modo a espicaçá-los para a escrita ou, simplesmente, orientá-los, preparou-os para um mundo de perigos e de desafios, sem que perdessem toda a sua riqueza genuína interior, a força e a criatividade.
Foi ao lado dos pais que aguardou a entrada nas escolas que mais lhes conviriam, com que tinha contactado e às quais tinha levado as crianças e os pais.
É com orgulho que recorda os sucessos que obtiveram e para os quais contribuiu.
Eu sou um Lápis põe lado a lado as agruras da vida e a magia que cada um tem dentro de si, as inseguranças que tentam sujeitar o ser humano a fechar-se e a viver dentro das suas ideias e a audácia de as passar para o papel.
Sam escrevia livros para crianças, quando foi convidado para dirigir uma oficina de escrita com uma turma do 3º ano, em Queens. Esta turma de 28 alunos, filhos, em grande parte de imigrantes, veio conferir um novo sentido à sua vida, ao ponto de escrever este livro sobre esta fantástica experiência.
Mr. Swope, como era tratado pelas crianças, conseguiu despertar-lhes o gosto pela escrita, de uma forma gradual, ensinando-os a pensar, a observar tudo à sua volta, a ver para lá do que está à sua volta, a escolher as palavras, a extravasar os sentimentos e emoções.
Nem sempre esta tarefa se revelou fácil, esbarrou contra muitas paredes. Cada um tinha a sua vida, a sua família, os seus problemas, os seus medos e os seus anseios. Mas, Mr. Swope nunca desistiu, ouvia-os, compreendia-os ou não, ensinava-os e repreendia-os quando assim era necessário. Muitas vezes, sentiu o desapontamento e o desânimo tomarem conta de si. Mas persistiu. Estas crianças, cada uma à sua maneira e com as suas características muito peculiares, despertaram nele a atenção, a esperança e os afetos.
Ao longo de três anos, através dos imensos diálogos que manobrava de forma exímia de modo a espicaçá-los para a escrita ou, simplesmente, orientá-los, preparou-os para um mundo de perigos e de desafios, sem que perdessem toda a sua riqueza genuína interior, a força e a criatividade.
Foi ao lado dos pais que aguardou a entrada nas escolas que mais lhes conviriam, com que tinha contactado e às quais tinha levado as crianças e os pais.
É com orgulho que recorda os sucessos que obtiveram e para os quais contribuiu.
Eu sou um Lápis põe lado a lado as agruras da vida e a magia que cada um tem dentro de si, as inseguranças que tentam sujeitar o ser humano a fechar-se e a viver dentro das suas ideias e a audácia de as passar para o papel.
January 3, 2022
(...)《Eu por fora》... como os outros vos vêem, ...《Eu por dentro》o vosso eu que ninguém vê (...). "
"A imaginação não é como aprender a multiplicar. Não se pode aprender a tê-la e não se pode deseja-la. Ou acontece ou não. "
"A recordação da voz de uma mãe a ler histórias é muito forte."
"E depois de terem construído a vossa caixa vão escrever uma história sobre ela. Depois vamos fazer um livro da vossa história e esse livro vai dentro da caixa para guardarem para sempre...." [O Projecto da Caixa]
"Não escolham um livro pela capa. Nem tudo o que luz é ouro. "
"Eram composições que os miúdos tinham escrito no primeiro dia de escola ...《Tudo sobre mim》."
"Às vezes mandava os alunos decorar poemas e agora lamento não os ter mandado decorar mais."
"Escrever poesia era coisa que eu iria fazer com toda a turma...(...) davam aos miúdos uma maneira de exprimirem um pensamento completo rapidamente...(...) tinham a mente livre para brincar om a linguagem e com as imagens de uma forma que nu ca faziam em prosa."
"(...) É isto que uma metáfora faz, faz uma afirmação mostrando o que duas coisas completamente diferentes têm em comum.(...) Vamos escrever uma frase ou duas a dizer o que cada um é e porque gosta de sê-lo. "
"Eu sou um lápis
Pronto para escrever
A minha vida."
"... perguntei se ele queria colaborar numa história. "
"Consultei a pasta de escrita dele.(...)"
"Escolham duas palavras da lista e façam um título para uma história. "
"Tu falas, eu tomo notas e depois tu escreves a história como trabalho de casa, está bem? (...) até que, por fim, ela escreveu o argumento, mais ou menos, para pudermos encena-lo na aula."
"Gostava que cada um de vocês escrevesse um poema. 《Se eu fosse uma llha.》."
"Dei a cada um um pedaço de papel de um metro e sessenta por setenta centímetros, em encarnado, amarelo ou azul."[O Projecto da Ilha 🏝️]
"《Uma árvore é ...》" - O Projecto da Árvore
"...ele disse-nos para adoptarmos uma árvore e mantê-la durante todo o ano." [cartas à árvore]
"... as árvores desenvolveram soluções tão inteligentes e caprichosas que bem podiam ser imaginadas por uma criança."
"...estas cartas à 《Querida Árvore 》, seriam um motivo repetido para o Livro da Árvore. As cartas misturadas com poemas, histórias e desenhos..."
"Como as pessoas que plantam árvores, cujas sombras nunca vão desfrutar, tenho confiança que os momentos mais importantes de O Livro da Árvore estão no futuro. "
"A imaginação não é como aprender a multiplicar. Não se pode aprender a tê-la e não se pode deseja-la. Ou acontece ou não. "
"A recordação da voz de uma mãe a ler histórias é muito forte."
"E depois de terem construído a vossa caixa vão escrever uma história sobre ela. Depois vamos fazer um livro da vossa história e esse livro vai dentro da caixa para guardarem para sempre...." [O Projecto da Caixa]
"Não escolham um livro pela capa. Nem tudo o que luz é ouro. "
"Eram composições que os miúdos tinham escrito no primeiro dia de escola ...《Tudo sobre mim》."
"Às vezes mandava os alunos decorar poemas e agora lamento não os ter mandado decorar mais."
"Escrever poesia era coisa que eu iria fazer com toda a turma...(...) davam aos miúdos uma maneira de exprimirem um pensamento completo rapidamente...(...) tinham a mente livre para brincar om a linguagem e com as imagens de uma forma que nu ca faziam em prosa."
"(...) É isto que uma metáfora faz, faz uma afirmação mostrando o que duas coisas completamente diferentes têm em comum.(...) Vamos escrever uma frase ou duas a dizer o que cada um é e porque gosta de sê-lo. "
"Eu sou um lápis
Pronto para escrever
A minha vida."
"... perguntei se ele queria colaborar numa história. "
"Consultei a pasta de escrita dele.(...)"
"Escolham duas palavras da lista e façam um título para uma história. "
"Tu falas, eu tomo notas e depois tu escreves a história como trabalho de casa, está bem? (...) até que, por fim, ela escreveu o argumento, mais ou menos, para pudermos encena-lo na aula."
"Gostava que cada um de vocês escrevesse um poema. 《Se eu fosse uma llha.》."
"Dei a cada um um pedaço de papel de um metro e sessenta por setenta centímetros, em encarnado, amarelo ou azul."[O Projecto da Ilha 🏝️]
"《Uma árvore é ...》" - O Projecto da Árvore
"...ele disse-nos para adoptarmos uma árvore e mantê-la durante todo o ano." [cartas à árvore]
"... as árvores desenvolveram soluções tão inteligentes e caprichosas que bem podiam ser imaginadas por uma criança."
"...estas cartas à 《Querida Árvore 》, seriam um motivo repetido para o Livro da Árvore. As cartas misturadas com poemas, histórias e desenhos..."
"Como as pessoas que plantam árvores, cujas sombras nunca vão desfrutar, tenho confiança que os momentos mais importantes de O Livro da Árvore estão no futuro. "
December 9, 2018
I really enjoyed reading this book! I liked that it was a simple read, yet profound (kind of like the students in the book). There's no pretension in it and so much humanity as well; it also really brought me back to the time of my childhood. Being a kid is hard and kids are so much more complex than we realize. It also made me wish that I had a teacher like Mr. Swope. I've had a few teachers I've loved but I'm not sure if they really thought I'd mattered. Of course, this book kind of made me realize what an awkward position teachers are in: they help you grow, but leave you. They want to guide you, but they also can't get too close (otherwise, it's inappropriate).
I really want to know what happens to Mr. Swope's kids. I cried at the end because I really do hope that everything turns out okay for those kids (they're in their 30's now and I'm so much younger than them, but Swope manages to freeze them quite well in his book).
Another thing I asked myself as I was reading this book was: when did I lose my imagination? I have always loved writing and remember so many fantastic ideas always popping into my head. Now, an adult, I don't have such ideas anymore and it makes me kind of sad. I wish I had a teacher like Swope to help me encourage it. I used some of Swope's techniques now! Like the part where he looks around and tries to see something new every day. I'm also really impressed at how profound children really are!
I'm not sure if Swope leaves out some of his own failings as a teacher (the bigger imperfections). He probably does because he comes off as an almost perfect teacher. I don't doubt that he cared for his students though, and ultimately, I think the book is great the way it is: a good, relaxing read that's also full of humanity.
I really want to know what happens to Mr. Swope's kids. I cried at the end because I really do hope that everything turns out okay for those kids (they're in their 30's now and I'm so much younger than them, but Swope manages to freeze them quite well in his book).
Another thing I asked myself as I was reading this book was: when did I lose my imagination? I have always loved writing and remember so many fantastic ideas always popping into my head. Now, an adult, I don't have such ideas anymore and it makes me kind of sad. I wish I had a teacher like Swope to help me encourage it. I used some of Swope's techniques now! Like the part where he looks around and tries to see something new every day. I'm also really impressed at how profound children really are!
I'm not sure if Swope leaves out some of his own failings as a teacher (the bigger imperfections). He probably does because he comes off as an almost perfect teacher. I don't doubt that he cared for his students though, and ultimately, I think the book is great the way it is: a good, relaxing read that's also full of humanity.
March 31, 2018
Sam Swope writes about his experience as a writer-in-the-classroom in Queens, working with a group of students across 3 years (3rd-5th grade). As a writing teacher, I was inspired. But even if you're not a teacher, you'll love these kids and Swope's empathy for them and their families. I highly recommend this book!
April 4, 2020
Excellent! Have had this book for 15 years and finally read it during the “pause”. Such a wonderful true story of a creative writing teacher who volunteered for three years at an elementary school in Queens in a neighborhood near where I worked. This would never be allowed today, but I could imagine it happening then. A much more creative time for educators.
October 28, 2020
I enjoyed Sam Swope’s class. What wonderful way to get the children to find their voice. Each child brought a unique perspective to the table.
I truly hope the children felt like they gained a great deal from that experience.
I truly hope the children felt like they gained a great deal from that experience.
September 15, 2023
I really do not know how I feel about this book. I might get hate for this comment, but the way he wrote about those kids made me a bit uncomfortable. He would get upset it seemed like when I student did not like him. He was also a bit judgmental towards those kids parent.
July 28, 2017
Inspiring and realistic for writing teachers. Easy to read, even when stressed after teaching.
July 6, 2020
I've tried twice to read this. It's awful, and I haven't made it passed the first 10 or so pages.
August 31, 2024
It's been a while since I read this book, but I remember that as an emerging educator I really enjoyed it!
March 31, 2012
Sam Swope, a professional children's author, decided to spend time in a public school with third graders, talking about writing, teaching writing, writing. He, like others, fell in love with his kids and spent a total of three years, following them thru 4th and 5th grade...that's the kind of luxury a 'real' teacher lives for. Imagine!
Swope gets to know the kids well. Mostly first and second generation immigrants from all corners of the world, the kids bring so many challenges and rewards to Swope's work. He's allowed into their thoughts and hopes through the writing. Any English teachers knows that's the kind of relationship that has positive and negative. He learns of the repressive religious zeal Miguel lives with, the crushing expectations MeiKai lives with. He also has run-ins with 'mean girls' who know instinctively he needs to be liked...and boy, howdy! They've got him from then on. I wish one of the teachers he worked with those years could have (maybe they did and he doesn't want to acknowledge it) taken him in hand and just explained.
What he's lacking are the tools of the teaching profession. What he has in abundance is passion -- a love for kids, a love for writing. He sets up a wonderful writing workshop approach that only works because it's on top of the regular classroom teacher's work. But I know he contributes to each child's writing life and internal life.
The setting is NYC, and the kids take the subway to and from school...Swope takes them on fieldtrips to Central Park...getting into middle schools is a whole gauntlet. Lots of differences to explore. Swope spends considerable time during the kids' fifth grade year trying to find them supportive middle schools. The demands of the system nearly broke his heart and mine too.
When sharing this with a friend, a fellow educator, I was reminded Swope can actually 'swoop' in whenever he wants to these classrooms and teach the ONE subject he loves above all others. He has no other responsibilities -- reportcards, testing...nothing else.
But, you know, if I could find my own Mr. Swope, someone who lived for books, to work with my students one on one while I did my thing, knowing NOW the kids had two caring adults to spend time and attention on them -- I'd do it in a heartbeat.
Swope gets to know the kids well. Mostly first and second generation immigrants from all corners of the world, the kids bring so many challenges and rewards to Swope's work. He's allowed into their thoughts and hopes through the writing. Any English teachers knows that's the kind of relationship that has positive and negative. He learns of the repressive religious zeal Miguel lives with, the crushing expectations MeiKai lives with. He also has run-ins with 'mean girls' who know instinctively he needs to be liked...and boy, howdy! They've got him from then on. I wish one of the teachers he worked with those years could have (maybe they did and he doesn't want to acknowledge it) taken him in hand and just explained.
What he's lacking are the tools of the teaching profession. What he has in abundance is passion -- a love for kids, a love for writing. He sets up a wonderful writing workshop approach that only works because it's on top of the regular classroom teacher's work. But I know he contributes to each child's writing life and internal life.
The setting is NYC, and the kids take the subway to and from school...Swope takes them on fieldtrips to Central Park...getting into middle schools is a whole gauntlet. Lots of differences to explore. Swope spends considerable time during the kids' fifth grade year trying to find them supportive middle schools. The demands of the system nearly broke his heart and mine too.
When sharing this with a friend, a fellow educator, I was reminded Swope can actually 'swoop' in whenever he wants to these classrooms and teach the ONE subject he loves above all others. He has no other responsibilities -- reportcards, testing...nothing else.
But, you know, if I could find my own Mr. Swope, someone who lived for books, to work with my students one on one while I did my thing, knowing NOW the kids had two caring adults to spend time and attention on them -- I'd do it in a heartbeat.
April 21, 2014
I am a Pencil is a memoir about a writer who volunteers his time to teach intercity immigrants writing at an elementary school. I truly enjoyed reading this book, and it was my favorite book I've read in the past couple months. However, this is less because of the writing style and the book itself and more because of the connections I could make to it on a national and personal level. I found the narration to be rather dry and the tone of the book to be somewhat flat. As a teacher and children's book author, Swope states in his book that he had never anticipated writing a memoir, but he had a story he was dying to tell. And it was worth telling. His close bonds with each individual student really shine through, each one with their own academic struggles and struggles at home. Having gone to a school for kids with learning disabilities for the past four years, always struggling to improve but never giving up, I connected to all of Swope's students in some way. I have Su Jung's shyness at times, and at other times, all the energy in the world, like Miguel. This book can be slow at times, but pushing through that is worth it if you can find a way to make your own connections to the students, or to Mr. Swope. Don't read this book merely for fun. (Meaning don't think to yourself, "I need something to read and don't know what" and pick up this book.) Read it because you enjoy learning about important themes in children's education and because you think you will get something out of it.
January 6, 2016
I loved this. Writer Sam Swope spent 3 years volunteering (!) his time with inner city kids in New York, kids from mostly immigrant, poor, uneducated familial backgrounds, and helped them to develop their love of reading and writing. Swope isn't a trained educator, and his honesty right from the start is charming. He's often lost in the classroom, but always trying new things, new projects, anything to spark imagination in his very cherished students. He works with basically the same kids for 3 years, before the say goodbye and go to middle school, and he really shows so much love for them and interest that extends beyond the classroom and into their lives at home. He documents this in his book, which adds an interesting personal element and offers insights into why some kids write what they do.
Some other Goodreads users didn't like what they felt were Swope's criticisms of the kid's lives (Miguel's extremely religious family who wouldn't allow him to dance, sing or participate in school performances), but you know what? Swope isn't a teacher. He's a writer who donated his precious time, his valuable insights. to these kids...and he can have any damn opinion that he wants. He isn't their teacher, so to me it isn't inappropriate for him to have some views in his book...and honestly, they weren't offensive. It DOES suck for a kid to be raised by parents who won't let him dance. Screw that. Let the goddamn kid dance!
Anyway, awesome book. Awesome guy! Hope all the kids have done well for themselves!
Some other Goodreads users didn't like what they felt were Swope's criticisms of the kid's lives (Miguel's extremely religious family who wouldn't allow him to dance, sing or participate in school performances), but you know what? Swope isn't a teacher. He's a writer who donated his precious time, his valuable insights. to these kids...and he can have any damn opinion that he wants. He isn't their teacher, so to me it isn't inappropriate for him to have some views in his book...and honestly, they weren't offensive. It DOES suck for a kid to be raised by parents who won't let him dance. Screw that. Let the goddamn kid dance!
Anyway, awesome book. Awesome guy! Hope all the kids have done well for themselves!
May 14, 2009
This book is the author's account of the three years he spent as a creative writing teacher at a low-income, multicultural elementary school in Queens, NY. He follows several children as they grow from 3rd grade through fifth grade, navigating difficult home lives, poverty, and peer culture. He also writes about his own growth as a teacher -- what he came to expect from himself and his students, what counts as "good writing" and "good learning," and how much one person can impact the lives of many.
I liked this book, but I wanted more from it. In particular, it was stunning to read about the opportunity this school had -- a seemingly full time writing teacher, the ability and funding to send kids on field trips to the park (to write about trees) and museums (to look at boxes) and the author's own apartment (to see how real writers live), a host of art supplies, and LOTS of time for individualized writing conferences. The author makes a note in the epilogue that the experience he had in the mid-1990s at this school could not be replicated in the current era of standards-based reform. He also mentions that the school that once offered him so much freedom now has a script-driven curriculum. I wish that the book had explored these changes, because this account could provide an important lens on what is possible in education under the right circumstances, how it happens (where does the money come from?), and why it's important.
I liked this book, but I wanted more from it. In particular, it was stunning to read about the opportunity this school had -- a seemingly full time writing teacher, the ability and funding to send kids on field trips to the park (to write about trees) and museums (to look at boxes) and the author's own apartment (to see how real writers live), a host of art supplies, and LOTS of time for individualized writing conferences. The author makes a note in the epilogue that the experience he had in the mid-1990s at this school could not be replicated in the current era of standards-based reform. He also mentions that the school that once offered him so much freedom now has a script-driven curriculum. I wish that the book had explored these changes, because this account could provide an important lens on what is possible in education under the right circumstances, how it happens (where does the money come from?), and why it's important.
September 23, 2012
I'm a sucker for men and women who see the potential in kids that nobody else does and devotes their lives to exposing the potential. And that's what this book is about.
Sam Swope, at a crossroads in his writing career, was handed an opportunity to teach a writing workshop to some 3rd grade kids. He jumped at the chance and stuck with them for 3 years, pouring into them - not just writing techniques, etc but he poured into them belief and care and consistency. They thrived, mostly, under his presence. He decided early on in his workshop that the kids were coming up with some fascinating things and he thought they would make an interesting read. He was right. He recorded their workshops, conferences, saved papers, stories, and drawings. And when all was said and done he was able to share with us the profound impact the children had on him through their writing, or even lack of it at times.
What the book highlights is that we don't give the kids enough credit and we need to dig a little deeper in the lives of the kids we are in touch with - we may be surprised to find out what is going on and it may be the very explanation we are looking for about them. And the biggest lesson of all the book shares is never ever give up on a child.
Sam Swope, at a crossroads in his writing career, was handed an opportunity to teach a writing workshop to some 3rd grade kids. He jumped at the chance and stuck with them for 3 years, pouring into them - not just writing techniques, etc but he poured into them belief and care and consistency. They thrived, mostly, under his presence. He decided early on in his workshop that the kids were coming up with some fascinating things and he thought they would make an interesting read. He was right. He recorded their workshops, conferences, saved papers, stories, and drawings. And when all was said and done he was able to share with us the profound impact the children had on him through their writing, or even lack of it at times.
What the book highlights is that we don't give the kids enough credit and we need to dig a little deeper in the lives of the kids we are in touch with - we may be surprised to find out what is going on and it may be the very explanation we are looking for about them. And the biggest lesson of all the book shares is never ever give up on a child.
November 27, 2012
When I picked up this narrative, I must admit I was slightly disappointed it was based around an elementary school classroom. As a secondary education English major, part of me hoped for a more applicable grade level. As I worked my way through the pages, however, I realized just how useful the book remains. Sam Swope is the teacher we all wish we had; he pushes his students, engages them, and gets to know them as people. The connections he draws with his students are inspiring, and I hope to be as caring for each and every one of my students some day. He also tells the readers honestly that not every day is a good day. Teaching is hard work, and sometimes getting out of bed in the morning and keeping a smile is a struggle. Not every student is going to like you, and you are not going to like every student. Filled with moving student backgrounds, project ideas, and examples of student writing, Sam Swope's educational journey is not to be ignored by teachers on any level.
August 13, 2007
I can't believe that I read an education book during the summer and enjoyed it so much!
This is a delightful book...anyone who loves children and is fascinated, as I am, as to the inner workings of their mind should read this.
Of course, I have the usual complaints. For example, the teacher, Mr. Swope, does not go into detail about how he researched for his big projects. He talks about how much time it takes in a very general, off-handed way. As a teacher, I can tell you this is not a minor piece to the unit. Teaching it is the small part...researching, planning and preparing is the major part.
However, this book is delightful and inspiring, as well as uplifting.
Although I am left wondering where those students are. I'm disappointed that some were not contacted before publishing.
This is a delightful book...anyone who loves children and is fascinated, as I am, as to the inner workings of their mind should read this.
Of course, I have the usual complaints. For example, the teacher, Mr. Swope, does not go into detail about how he researched for his big projects. He talks about how much time it takes in a very general, off-handed way. As a teacher, I can tell you this is not a minor piece to the unit. Teaching it is the small part...researching, planning and preparing is the major part.
However, this book is delightful and inspiring, as well as uplifting.
Although I am left wondering where those students are. I'm disappointed that some were not contacted before publishing.
November 14, 2008
I'd probably give it a 3.5 if I could, but I really did like it a lot. I really enjoyed the author's attitudes & experiences with kids the same age that I've enjoyed working with these last couple of years (3rd-5th grade). Even though I wasn't full-time or specialized to teaching writing like he was, being so fascinated at the individuality & aptitude of every student really resonated with me. What kept it from being an extremely high rating for me was something about the pace. I enjoyed what I read on many levels, but had no problem putting it down after only a chapter & not picking it up again for a while. It just wasn't thoroughly compelling & page-turning. I'd definitely recommend it to other elementary teachers (& I'll probably see if AEIS will put it on the teacher shelf of their library).
January 20, 2012
I read this book while I was in my graduate program for education. This book was an assigned reading for a course in classroom assessment and instruction. I couldn't put the book down! I most related to the character Miguel. I have friends who grew up catholic and experienced some of the same strict religious practices in their home. Mr. Swopes really paints a vivid picture of what it is like to teach in an inclusion type of classroom. You have so many different walks of life to acommodate and serve as a teacher now, and you have to be respectful yet neutral in teaching them. I would recommend any college professor who is apart of an education program to incorporate this book into their course plans somehow. It will turn out to be very useful in preparing today's teachers.
October 27, 2015
This was a serendipitous find a a library book sale. [You do support your local library by going to book sales, right?] A writer in New York City spends three years volunteering to teach creative writing to elementary students in a poor area of Queens. The school is filled with immigrant families from all over the world., many of whom struggle with English, and yet the author manages to get these kids to write stories and poems. The book is filled with examples of their writing. Some are fun, others poignant, others heartbreaking. Through the author's commentary we glimpse the hard life most of these kids have, their joys and fears and dreams. You could ask what difference it can make, teaching one classroom of kids out of the thousands. This book is one man's answer.
March 1, 2011
It's a silly title. But it intrigued me for many days and I picked it up eventually. I wasn't disappointed! In fact, I think this is one of those rare jewels, an untampered, unpretentious celebration of humanity. Sam Swope writes with an earnestness that shines through clear and honest prose. I have taught young children before and, like Sam, saw in them what they could not yet see in themselves: young minds that have the potential to become just about anything they can put themselves to: a scientist, a nobel laureate, a prime minister...! i recommend this to all educators and parents who share Sam's dream.
May 1, 2012
The best thing about this book is definitely watching the kids grow up. It's something I would never be able to experience unless I did what he did. It made me think a lot about how much I've changed since elementary school and the kind of thoughts I had when I was that age. It just made me think. I liked reading the kids' writing, even though it was so childish. Their writing made me think more about the authors and what they were trying to say, since they couldn't express it all the way. I liked watching Swope learn what it really means to be a teacher. It was interesting, the whole concept.
March 1, 2014
What a wonderful little book. The title and cover attracted me and I was not disappointed by the story inside. Swope devotes three years of his life teaching the same class of grade school kids to express themselves in the written word. He counseled them in a group and individually while their regular teacher taught other subjects. Whether these kids use writing as their main focus of their careers as adults or not, they will still have learned the important skill of communication in a non-confrontational way. And they will have received individualized attention at a time when they needed it.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews