Lynn B. (windowlady) reviewed The Freedom Writers Diary: How a Teacher and 150 Teens Used Writing to Change Themselves and the World Around Them on + 2 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 5
This is a most insprational book on so many levels. The students and their stories are amazing, their teacher and all that she had to overcome to reach her students is truly inspirational and the people they met through their readings continue to inspire all people over the decades.I highly recommend this uplifting and unforgettable book.
Catherine L. (sassysilver) reviewed The Freedom Writers Diary: How a Teacher and 150 Teens Used Writing to Change Themselves and the World Around Them on + 35 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 4
You will immediately recognize the title of this book because of the movie that has come out with Hillary Swank in the lead role. I have not seen the movie, but I enjoyed the book.
It's kind of different -- written as an inclusive diary of entries by various students (and occasionally the teacher) in a young English teacher's classes in a California high school. The entries trace the progression of how the teacher introduces some innovative teaching lessons, that "catch on fire" with the students, who are supposed to be "unteachable." It goes on to depict how the spirit of the classes goes out to the outside world. It was truly inspiring.
It's kind of different -- written as an inclusive diary of entries by various students (and occasionally the teacher) in a young English teacher's classes in a California high school. The entries trace the progression of how the teacher introduces some innovative teaching lessons, that "catch on fire" with the students, who are supposed to be "unteachable." It goes on to depict how the spirit of the classes goes out to the outside world. It was truly inspiring.
Kathleen C. reviewed The Freedom Writers Diary: How a Teacher and 150 Teens Used Writing to Change Themselves and the World Around Them on + 3 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 4
This is a facinating book, especially if you have never been very close to street crime. It will really open your eyes to another world you may never have imagined with the exception of what's on TV. People struggle in this world and this is a first hand account of that truth. It is gripping, powerfull, and inspiring.
Kimberly N. (KimberlyN) - reviewed The Freedom Writers Diary: How a Teacher and 150 Teens Used Writing to Change Themselves and the World Around Them on + 91 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 2
Very good! I wanted to read the book before I saw the movie, but as "timing" would have it, I ended up in the theatre befre I started the book. I really enjoyed both. They were different. BUT, I definitely would have enjoyed both much more if I had "read" then "saw." I recommend you skip the movie until you read the book.
Debbie S. (DebbieS) reviewed The Freedom Writers Diary: How a Teacher and 150 Teens Used Writing to Change Themselves and the World Around Them on + 12 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
I really enjoyed reading this book. I read it before the movie came out. I've seen the movie and this book is a more in depth look at the students' diaries. Very eye opening!