A review by kerri_m
I Am a Pencil: A Teacher, His Kids, and Their World of Stories by Sam Swope

4.0

When I picked up this narrative, I must admit I was slightly disappointed it was based around an elementary school classroom. As a secondary education English major, part of me hoped for a more applicable grade level. As I worked my way through the pages, however, I realized just how useful the book remains. Sam Swope is the teacher we all wish we had; he pushes his students, engages them, and gets to know them as people. The connections he draws with his students are inspiring, and I hope to be as caring for each and every one of my students some day. He also tells the readers honestly that not every day is a good day. Teaching is hard work, and sometimes getting out of bed in the morning and keeping a smile is a struggle. Not every student is going to like you, and you are not going to like every student. Filled with moving student backgrounds, project ideas, and examples of student writing, Sam Swope's educational journey is not to be ignored by teachers on any level.