"A most welcome dose of good sense. The authors offer an energizing call to arms for the teaching profession and a most provocative, inspired, and inspiring antidote to No Child Left Behind. In this 'open letter' to the profession, beleaguered teachers will find comfort, affirmation, and heart."

"Through inspirational stories that made me laugh and cry, as well as reports of successful organizations that made me think, this engaging and enlightening book charts a course for restoring passion, vigor, and hope to the calling of teaching. It’s a must-read for anyone who cares about schools, teachers, and children."

"Deal and Redman tackle the restoration of a really sound idea: confidence and belief in classroom teachers and their ability to make a difference in the lives of their students. At a time when state and federal accountability systems have stripped teaching of its inherent joy and magic, these powerful defenders of the teaching profession are determined to put it back. Here is a must-read for those who appreciate what teachers do on a daily basis. Bravo!"

"Terrence Deal, America’s strongest voice for reason in education reform, is joined by Peggy Deal Redman in calling for a return to balance in how we view teaching and learning. This eloquent book calls us back from the ledge and makes a powerful case for why education is much more than measures and metrics. A must-read."

"This book is wonderful. I sometimes feel like a general getting my troops ready for battle instead of an educator trying to inspire others. My colleagues often state that the joy has been taken out of teaching, and there are many days that I feel the same way. This book was a wake-up call for me and should be read by lawmakers at every level. Today I am celebrating the childhood in my students—something we forget to do."

"True education extends beyond mastery of skills and captures a child’s heart and soul. This book provides a common language for parent-teacher communication."