Entertaining an Elephant: A Novel About Learning and Letting Go

by William L. McBride

Entertaining an Elephant is the heartwarming story of a burned-out teacher struggling though his fifteenth year of teaching. Through a set of unexpected events, this teacher becomes re-inspired with both his profession and his own life. Woven into this short novel are quotes from world-renown spiritual and philosophical writers who suggest ways for us to face the tough challenges of today's world. Already in its 16th printing, the book is a favorite among educators and parents. Priced to sell in bulk, administrators and instructors often use the novel as a book study with faculties or in schools of education.


Here's what people are saying about Entertaining an


Powerful! Super! Splendid! Explosive! A thousand thanks! - Cora Miles, Principal, White Plains, NY


It should be on every educator's recommended reading list. - Nel Noddings, Ph.D., Dean of the School of Education, Stanford University


I bought a copy for every teacher at my school. What a wonderful book! - Sandra Farmer, Principal, Rocky Mount, NC


I couldn't put it down. I loved it! - Inga Smith, Ohio Teacher of the Year


A poignant story about teaching only love that will open up your heart to how important it is to let go, to be open-minded, and to forgive others and ourselves. - Gerald Jampolsky, M.D., Author of Love is Letting Go of Fear


This novel touched me. - Peter Elbow, Ph.D., University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA


Entertaining an Elephant is wonderful. I loved it! - Carol Jago, Editor, California English, Pacific Palisades, CA


*****If you love this book, check out the sequel, Carrying a Load of Feathers*****


Half the proceeds of every sale go to charity.

Genres: Teaching, Education, Fiction, School, Adult Fiction

115 pages, Paperback

First published November 1, 1996

Reviews

[William Lawrence · Rating 3 out of 5]

I came across this book 20 years after its publication. While McBide's novella isn't the worst book I've read, there were a few things that irked me along the way. The biggest issue was the English pedagogy didactic insertion that promotes less grammar, less tradition, less structure. Okay, no one gets up there and teaches grammar the way they did in the 1950s, and I don't believe teaching English should be centered around grammar and rules, but a complete abandonment of grammar has cost us a lot in language skills, especially for the populations that need it the most. I agree that literature is a much better way to approach English instruction, but now schools of ed and writing pedagogy gurus are starting to chip away at that too. Composition by lit is out of style. Reading arbitrary content is outdated, they say. Next, they'll say paragraphs aren't even necessary. The grammar issue probably doesn't matter anymore to a reader in the 21st century because it's long gone after middle school for the most part anyway.

But McBride also takes part in the anti-knowledge bandwagon and promotes instant gratification. Reward for work is demonized by the narrative by showing a weak protagonist who values this philosophy but fails. Overall, you get the feeling McBride wanted to teach teachers a lesson: that you don't know what you think you know. Okay, thanks, but the janitor is the wise man who does somehow have all the wisdom? Like another reviewer, I was automatically reminded of Goodwill Hunting, but according to the dates it seems the book was published the same year (the film came out in December 1997). The smart young janitor works well as a character in Goodwill Hunting, and the wise old working man also works well in The Peaceful Warrior. I know how the working class can be unbelievably smart, and that this could be surprising to others, but I don't know if a wise literary janitor works here.

I have the cover with a white guy with piercings who looks college aged when the kids in the book are high school aged black and Hispanic, so I have no idea what went wrong there. The title also bewilders me, but maybe I missed something. Some of the transitions into backstory are sloppy and some dialogue is weak. For example, Reaf's dialogue is very immature for a 15 year veteran teacher who must be in their thirties. His gun references are also way over the top. Maybe teachers think about walking out the door and never coming back, but what healthy-minded teacher even considers bringing a gun to school? The mental state of this teacher is probably a better story than the surface one we have here.

Entertaining an Elephant has some positive messages. For teachers- accept change, go with the flow, and don't be too overly structured. For students- realize that teachers are human too. Overall, this is a quick read with some positive messages, mixed in with some generalizations and concerning racial stereotypes. The story could promote some good discussion for a class, but I just don't think it goes deep enough.

[Shane · Rating 4 out of 5]

Before you discover what the title means you will be moved to laughter and tears. The rite of passage of high school is something most of us can relate to but there is another rite of passage not everyone can understand...BEING a high school teacher.
Mr. Reaf (an anagram of fear) is beginning another school year as a grammar teacher. He is burned out and unmotivated to change his teaching style. A style which induces no excitement in any of his students. Each day he counts on his fingers the "good classes" and the "bad ones."
Enter Luis. A janitor with a big heart and wise head. He engages a reluctant-to-listen Mr. Reaf everyday about his teaching methods and offers anecdotes of his own life as well as colorful allusions to fables and ancient stories all while sweeping the floor. Reaf suffers through Luis' ramblings each day, barely interested as Luis emotes about the difference between knowledge and wisdom.
Things begin to stir up the classroom when the debate club begins to write quotes on the board after school. All the classes respond to the quotes and soon Mr. Reaf does as well. Reaf engages with some students and learns a secret about one of them, a secret which he shares with the student. Within a few short weeks, things begin to change inside the quonset hut where the classroom is held. Luis' wisdom, the mysterious quotes and Reaf's introspection all collide and the result is amazing. The graphic novel, which I have illustrated is nearly finished and will be published in early 2011.

[Lydia · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'm not really sure how to feel about this book, which I was required to read for a class for my teaching credential program. It was inspiring, as education stories tend to be. But it was fictional, which means it has a clear agenda for that inspiration - it was crafted to invoke precise emotions for particular reasons. Which seems to go against a distinction made in the book between a computer, which will theoretically spit out all the results for a search term without bias, and a human, who will choose to only present what research supports his point.

I know I'm not quite the target audience for this book, as I'm a student teacher and have theoretically not reached the burnout point in my teaching career that Mr. Reaf, the protagonist of our book, has. But I'm not sure that this book, first published in 1996, either stands the test of time or applies to all content areas. It seems to promote the idea that teachers can choose to teach what they want how they want, which might be the furthest thing from the truth. Between content standards, pacing guides, and standardized tests, I personally have found it incredibly difficult to develop a curriculum that not only works (gets students motivated to learn, as the quotes did in this book) but also meets the requirements set forth for public school teachers today. As such, this book will join the mess of other inspirational stories I have encountered throughout the credentialing process - nice in theory, but it left me feeling like I, as a math teacher, have a clear disadvantage (as compared to English and other humanities teachers) in making my subject matter approachable. It provided me with good feelings and inspiration and agreement with the ideas, but left me with little clue as to how to apply that to my teaching in a meaningful way.

[Emily · Rating 1 out of 5]

I had to read this for class, and it was a quick read, but very predictable. I understand the message it is trying to get across, but it is so cliche, and i am wondering how this teacher was even able to hold his job for so long. i felt sorry for mr. reaf, but i never liked him. i did like Luis, though, and i might use some of the quotes for my own classroom in the future. in the end, not something i would recommend to people.

[Hubes · Rating 1 out of 5]

There's a decent message here but the prejudice/racism of the teacher really gets in the way of it

[Caleb · Rating 4 out of 5]

The review of this book on goodreads isn't wrong, but does not do the book enough justice. This may not be the best book ever written, and maybe some of concepts in the story is out of date, but I would still reccomend this book to anyone who is looking for a quick and fascinating read.

[Ismenia Jutia · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book touched very close to home as I am an English teacher. Touching and insightful without being preachy.

[Becca · Rating 2 out of 5]

Short novella that was assigned for a grad class I’m taking. Not my favorite. Much too preachy and, now, out of date as well. There are films that explore the “burned out teacher” idea in the same amount of time but would be far more engaging.

[Vicki Tate · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was right on par with a number of ideas and principles of teaching that I'm sure many share. It was an interesting insight into what students need and how often teachers fail to provide. I enjoyed the author's approach and the reminders that students, regardless of and maybe because of their diverse backgrounds, need intellectual stimulation and a belief that they matter and that they can succeed. I thought the style rather simplistic but the message a good one; definitely worthy of a read.

[Maria · Rating 5 out of 5]

This short book reminded me why I became a teacher. It reinforced my belief that all students have a story behind them, just as adults do. Teachers need to remember that many kids have a lot going on in their home lives (or lack thereof). Also a strong reminder that teaching is not about teaching the way "I like best" but in a way that meets the students' needs and connects them to the content. A wonderful book that I will revisit again!

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wanted to crawl into this book and curl up. I anxiously turned the pages to see what would unfold next, yet I was reluctant, as every page brought me closer to the end and I didn't want it to be over.
A great easy read for teachers, or anyone, to remind them of what really matters. I was inspired and encouraged.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoy quotes and this was a great story that integrated quotes throughout . it was a great inspirational story about teaching and how we all can be better teachers .

Not a review but quotes i found interesting:
* " I deadened myself to this job so it wouldn't kill me". Page 17
* in The Beginner's mind there are many possibilities, in the experts mind there are few. - Zen mind, beginner's mind Shunryu Suzuki
* why, he thought, do the losses carry so much more weight than the wins? Page 22
* if you're always wanting more, you'll never have enough. page 27
* "if you really want to change your life, count the number of times you've said, 'I will' then count the number of times you said, 'I can't'. If you're not where you want to be, chances are you've said, 'I can't' more times than you said, 'I will.' " page 54
* those who are good I treat as good. Those who are not good I also treated as good. In doing so I gain in goodness. --Lao Tzu from the Tao Te Ching page 78
* make no friendship with an elephant keeper if you have no room to entertain an elephant. -Saadi of Shiraz Sufi Master page 78
* there is no surer sign of a need for change then pain or unhappiness. page 91
* the job of a teacher is to Simply create a loving space where children can consider the ideas, values, and beliefs of others with compassion and respect. page 107
* if you can, help others, if you cannot do that; at least do not harm them. -the Dalai Lama page 107
* the future will depend on what we do in the present. - Mahatma Gandhi page 113
* everything you teach you are learning. Teach only love, and learn that love is yours and you are loved. - A Course in Miracles page 114

[Erin · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars. It’s written in 1997 so it has some dated language about gay people which is problematic. But over all, a very good book about teaching, veteran teachers, getting stuck in a rut and having the courage to get out of that rut by listening to an unexpected influence.

I’m pissed that Luis was fired at the end simple because he was homeless and had to lie on his application about his street address. How are homeless people supposed to get a job and money if the application demands an address. Booooo.

I’m helping out intro to Teaching teacher write lessons for students while they read this novel. One of her concerns when she brought the book to me is that it might be CRT. And it kinda is. But I’m not one to back down because this is an amazing book and I’m excited for student to read it. It’s short, it’s entertaining, it’s thought provoking and it’s realistic. I think a lot of students will get up in arms bc at first Mr. Reaf is racist and judgemental.

Discussion of violence, lgbt, murder, homelessness, stereotypes, racism, discrimination.

I really liked the symbolism of the chalk on Mr. Reaf’s hands and how that indicates that he’s been teaching the same way for too long.

[Dewi Clark · Rating 3 out of 5]

From the start it is clear what will happen by the end of the story, the cold hearted stuck in his ways teacher will find a new joy for teaching. An altogether conflicting book, the teacher shows videos showing the struggles of native americans against their white oppressors, whilst at the same time berating minorities and immigrants and holding them in low regard. As for Mr. Reafs character development...well...he does develop but by the end of the book the lazy teacher is still a lazy teacher, relying entirely on someone else's guidance.

[Ross · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a very creative fictional account of a high school English teacher. To me the book felt very "Rudy" to me. I found myself highlighting many lines that made me reflect on my role as an educator. I wonder what other educators think about this book as it connects to growth, best practices, and willingness to change. I'm excited to share this with other educators and was grateful for the recommendation.

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This is a very great book and it gives you life lessons and pieces of advice that you didn't think you needed. (Also if i'm posting a lot of recently read books in a short time frame, it's because I finished them over the summer and didn't log them for my challenge)

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good book with a surprising ending.

[Ashley Scherbenske · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this book for a graduate class I’m taking. It took me just a couple days to finish it. Easy read & really great message!!

[Yesenia · Rating 2 out of 5]

With a sluggish start and tawdry aspects, it may ironically bestow wisdom on those who aren’t fishing. Facile with insightful undertones.

[Jill Boyd · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book and found it inspiring

[Tim Kenney]

This should be a must read for all aspiring educators.

[themsbookshelf · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a clear winner for all teachers, coaches and those in leadership positions in youth organizations. It was a quick, and wonderful, read.

[Courtney · Rating 4 out of 5]

While not written the best, the message of this short novel is wonderful for teachers everywhere.

[Rodney Stevenson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really great book with a lot of wisdom!

[Lori · Rating 2 out of 5]

I read this as part of my masters program in educational leadership and while there were a few valuable lessons, nothing was groundbreaking or new to me. I mostly felt the writing was heavy handed and the story was a bit too on the nose.

[Teresa · Rating 4 out of 5]

At first, this was a novel assigned to one of the classes everyone must take to obtain a single subject teaching credential in California. On the first day of classes, it was no longer on the syllabus (but it was listed as required through the bookstore). I got a copy on Amazon, but my professor said since it is out of print and hard to find, we won't be reading it for the course.
That said, I read it anyway. This book is about an English teacher who has been teaching the same lesson plans on grammar every day for the past fifteen years. When a janitor comes in and writes quotes on Mr. Reaf's board everyday after he leaves, Mr. Reaf finds that the students are excited to discuss these quotes. Mr. Reaf thinks the debate club is leaving the quotes, but the janitor has secretly been leaving them in hopes that the anger in Mr. Reaf's room would dissipate. While Mr. Reaf has a hard time accepting the janitor's words on how to change his teaching strategies, he takes his own life and meaning for teaching in to consideration.

All in all, the book was a decent read, but not life changing to me as an educator. It was a bit tiresome that Mr. Reaf is one of those teachers who sticks to the same thing year after year after year, because many teachers these days do not do that. Teaching as a profession is changing, and this book is now 20 years old, dating it to a time when school was a very different place.

[Kurt · Rating 1 out of 5]

Entertaining an Elephant, by William Mcbride. 115 pages. This is another book I would not have ordinarily read, but is another text used by Fielding University. It is a book that is used to promote and encourage change in the classroom. The protagonist is Mr. Reaf, an old burn-out English teacher whose only curriculum is traditional grammars. His students hate, fear, and verbally abuse him, but he believes that is because he is the stalwart defender for the Old School ways, the right way to write. Then, a ‘janitor’ begins to write a series of proverbs on his chalk board, a new one each day. Students begin to decipher and to discuss these proverbs. As they discuss and construct meaning, Reaf is decentralized as Sae on Stage, and the weak fabric of his curriculum begins to disintegrate. He also has daily afternoon chats with Luis Aigueta, a homeless janitor who is a Ghandi-like figure in his looks and his wisdom. For example, he tells Reaf that Reaf’s gay brother might not have been murdered by gangsters “if, in some school, a certain gang of teenagers had been taught some wisdom and compassion.” I found this text, only 115 pages, a quick and amusing read. I was glad it was quick because it did not call to me to make changes in my classroom. It would call/challenge traditional teachers whose curriculum follows the Fred Flintstone approach to teaching: My curriculum is chiseled in stone.” ** and one half stars only.

[Kellie Wilson · Rating 3 out of 5]

I say I liked this book, but sometimes I really liked this book. I can tell because I finished it quickly. The structure is comforting. While unpredictable quotations begin each section, a familiar plot unfolds. A teacher named Mr. Reaf changes the "what" and "how" of his teaching in a series of small moments inspired by a man named Luis, who works as a janitor in Mr. Reaf's school.
It is not surprising that some of the material in this book is outdated as it was published nearly twenty years ago. For example, the internet isn't featured as a plausible way to look up information. While some of the situations in the story are no longer relate-able to today's teaching environment, there are still several moments that feel and sound like authentic teacher and student interaction. One such moment is the surprise Mr. Reaf feels when students from his "worst" class bother to say goodbye as they leave the room (this is after he shows them an interesting film). It's also obvious that the internal thought process of a teacher's negative thinking is relevant to today's teachers.

[Mia · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a very short, yet very inspirational book. It follows a veteran teacher for the first few weeks of school. You can tell immediately that he is somewhat disgruntled and wary of students at this point in his life -- always expecting the worst from them, rather than assuming they will find a way to inspire. He is deadset in his teaching method, mentioning more than once that it has taken him years to perfect it. The janitor who cleans his room attempts to open his mind to new possibilities, and is really the person who was so motivational in this book. His slightly outside the box thinking is refreshing, and even made me want to change things I do in my own room! This was lent to me by an AP at my school after talking about reading with students to inspire them, and I'm so glad she gave it to me. I would certainly recommend it to any of my teacher friends, especially if they need a quick pick me up.

[Deborah Horton Core · Rating 4 out of 5]

Utterly predictable. I'm laughing as I write that because although it was utterly predictable, I thoroughly enjoyed it. It reminded me of why I wanted to teach...I didn't want to be that teacher who carried the same darn thing to class with them every year. I didn't want to be the teacher that the kids said "man, she teaches that every year". I tried to be the teacher that looked at the way something was going and said, crap, throw that out and fly by the seat of my pants...and some where, done the road, I'm hoping that I will look back at that and laugh and say, "woohoo, what a ride!"

This book isn't just for teachers, it is a book for anyone who needs to re-evaluate who they are and why they do the things they do.