Harry K. Wong

Eh. While Wong makes a lot of lucid points about what it takes to be a successful teacher, I found his self-aggrandizing writing style and veiled condescension grating. He reiterates the importance of professionalism as a teacher, but then writes a book whose layout looks like it was designed for five year olds. Teachers aren't idiots, Harry. You can write a book that isn't larded with cliches and ridiculous clip art, and people will read it.

Every few years I like to re-read this book. It really renews my passion for teaching. It's a great reminder of why I use certain practices as well as reminds me of practices I may have forgotten. I received this book as a graduation present from college for my first year of teaching, but twelve years later I still find it practical and useful. I especially appreciated the epilogue and love its comment that our children are becoming an endangered species". Unfortunately that is so true. I do show more think it might be time to get an updated edition though. It is a few years old." show less

When I taught in Utah, this was required reading before the 1st day. I remember certain parts of it giving me focus and direction. After a really rough 1st year back after grad school, I pulled this out again and re-read it. Much of it is second nature to me at this point--which is great--but there were some things that I'd been forgetting to do. It was nice to be reminded. This next year should be better for many reasons, including that I re-read this book.

If you ever know anyone who is show more going to be a teacher, this is a perfect, perfect gift. show less

What a disappointment this book was! Fully one half of the book is devoted to metaphores of good teaching. The target readers are teachers - We get it! The other half of the book tells us the general differences between great teachers and horribly incompetent teachers. We get that, too! What's lacking in this book are realistic scenarios with detailed suggestions for making the best of them. This book was recommended by a colleague and I was looking forward to some insights on making my show more classroom better. All I got were platitudes. show less