Cries from the corridor

by Peter McLaren

Genres: Nonfiction

204 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1980

About the author

Professor in the Division of Urban Schooling, the Graduate School of Education and Information Studies, University of California, Los Angeles (United States). He is the author and editor of forty-five books and hundreds of scholarly articles and chapters. His writings have been translated into 20 languages.

He is known as one of the leading architects of critical pedagogy and for his scholarly writings on critical literacy, the sociology of education, cultural studies, critical ethnography, and Marxist theory. He has developed a reputation for his uncompromising political analysis influenced by a Marxist humanist philosophy and a unique literary style of expression. His scholarship and political activism have taken him throughout Latin America, the Caribbean, Europe, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia.

Reviews

[George · Rating 5 out of 5]

An interesting book about a man's experience as a teacher in a challenging neighbourhood in Toronto. I grew up just south of the area, and currently live smack in the middle of it. I cannot specifically identify the schol he speaks of, but I have my guesses. Although he wrote many years ago (I first heard of the book from a prof at Penn State, and THAT was in the mid 90s), one could say that not much has changed: there is still violence, and guns, and gang activity. I will say, though, it is not as bad as some areas that I lived in the States. And there is still hope here: I actually know my neighbours better today, after 14 months, than I did in either State College or Little Rock, after years of owning a home. I think it is because people recognize the threat of people around them and want to bind together with others who are not related to violence.

Although parts of the book were depressing, I don't think that is bad. It is important to realize the reality of what is out there: wherever you are. Reading such books is an accurate reflection of where we are. It is what we do with the knowledge that makes a difference.

[Jenny · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this is one sitting. This book was written before I was born, and it is heartbreaking that so much hasn't changed.

A devastatingly clear look at children (and a neighbourhood) repeatedly failed by the systems and adults meant to help them.

[Behnaz · Rating 5 out of 5]

"If you tell yourself that if something positive happens with kid, no matter how small it seems, that it is worthwhile. Well then you'll do fine. You'll be in shape emotionally to help that next kid who's standing in line"

[Mariandrea · Rating 5 out of 5]

A look from the past right into the future, which is now our present.

[Agostino · Rating 5 out of 5]

honest book