Description
Book SynopsisCan one teacher truly make a difference in her students' lives when everything is working against them? Can a love for literature and learning save the most vulnerable of youth from a life of poverty? This book deals with these questions.
Trade Review"It's become a standard book and movie trope: An idealistic teacher walks into a classroom of hardened, at-risk students and strives to reach them.But the outlines of the story, while familiar, can still surprise and inspire." Boston Globe Book Section "A valuable look at the intellectual lives (and fragile potential) of girls buffeted by American social realities, and an excellent reflection on the challenges of teaching." Kirkus Reviews
Table of ContentsList of Illustrations Author's Note Introduction: A Teacher on a Mission Part I. Childhood Ghosts 1. Ghost Rose Speaks 2. Elizabeth Discovers Her Paperback 3. We're Sisters! Part II. My Life as a Girl 4. Girl Talk 5. A Magazine Is Born 6. Mrs. Bush Visits (But Not Our Class) 7. A Saturday at the Bookstore 8. Jessica Finds Jesus, and Elizabeth Finds Love 9. Blair Discovers a Voice Part III. Leavings 10. At Sixteen 11. Girlhood Interrupted 12. I Deserve a Better Life 13. The Road Out Epilogue Notes Index
