Customer Reviews

In the Middle: Writing, Reading, and Learning

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First, a little story. Before IN THE MIDDLE arrived from Amazon, I gave a workshop on writing at an educational conference. Afterward, an attendee commented that my techniques reminded him of Nancie Atwell's. I told him I had just learned of her (though her book's been out since 1987), and asked how he liked her book. He said it was very informative, but he almost stopped reading it several times because she does not practice one of the skills she should be teaching [in fact, I don't think she even mentions it; perhaps she doesn't believe in it]: conciseness. Of course, I had no idea what he was talking about at the time.

Nancie's IN THE MIDDLE both bored and invigorated me. I had to skim portions of the long book (she advocates this for her student readers, too), but pretty much plodded along because she would often surprise me with hidden nuggets of helpful information. I also kept rereading portions of MY book to make comparisons.

I think my favorite chapter is Nine, "Reading Mini-Lessons." She mentions some prominent educators in the field of English/Reading, but we certainly agree on author Frank Smith's READING WITHOUT NONSENSE, which has been my "bible" on that subject.

I am sure she felt the need to include so much information to support or exemplify her approaches, but she does tend to be redundant/repetitive, too detailed, and just shared too much--though some may need that hand holding (reinforcement, I am sure she would call it). She will also introduce an idea, but sometimes not really explain it until the next chapter. I think there is something to be said for clarity and brevity.

Her situation (which may have allowed her more freedom) in almost-rural Maine and the skill and socio-economic levels of most of her teens may have made her techniques work better than in, let's say, an inner-city/socio-economically depressed, gang-like territory. Though I am not sure because I know a super teacher in a more urban setting that swears by her approaches, with some modifications.

Her enthusiasm is infectious, her dedication to each student evident, and her energy (has to be) boundless. Although it takes her a while, at times, she eventually makes most things clear and worth the effort of staying with the book.

I took notes as I was reading: criticizing (later crossing out most of these), praising, learning, and noting our similar and different approaches.

All in all, I think her book (and a few she mentions) should be mandatory reading for anyone intending to teach English or literature or reading or writing. In fact, it should be on the bookshelf of the teachers of teachers.

The Creative Teacher: Activities for Language Arts (Grades 4 through 8 and Up)

This book, along with Linda Rief's Seeking Diversity, are two of the landmark books for Language Arts teachers. It is an eminently readable book with helpful, practical tips. Atwell's love of students, teaching, and her sense of humor shine through