Soundings: A Democratic Student-Centered Education

by Mark Springer

Soundings is a book of genuine significance and lasting importance. Coming at a critical juncture in the middle school movement, this work provides a vicarious visit to a vibrant, highly successful school program that is "middle school" in its every aspect. Here is that fully detailed and illustrated example to inform and inspire-that rhetoric in practice to hold up for examination and emulation. For the thousands of middle level teachers who recognize that the still largely subject-centered curriculum does not help young adolescents acquire the skills and dispositions needed for success in tomorrow's world and who wish they could create a more democratic community, this book is a godsend!

Genres: Education

227 pages, Perfect Paperback

First published January 1, 2006

Reviews

[Carla · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great surprise! Couldn't put this book down. I thought it would be a gimmicky book that depended on the card clues and internet connections with not much effort put into the writing of the book. But, on the contrary, the book stands alone (no need for the cards, clues, prize, etc.... though I'm sure kids love that part). Well written, good mystery, suspenseful and a lot of fun.

From School library Journal:
Starred Review. Grade 4–7—When their beloved Aunt Grace dies, Dan, 11, and Amy, 14—along with other Cahill descendants—are faced with an unusual choice: inherit one million dollars or participate in a perilous treasure hunt. Cahills have determined the course of history for centuries, and this quest's outcome will bring the victors untoward power and affect all of humankind. Against the wishes of nasty Aunt Beatrice, their reluctant guardian since their parents' deaths, Dan and Amy accept the challenge, convincing their college-age au pair to serve as designated adult. Pitted against other Cahill teams, who will stop at nothing to win, the siblings decipher the first of 39 clues and are soon hot on the historical trail of family member Ben Franklin to unearth the next secret. Adeptly incorporating a genuine kids' perspective, the narrative unfolds like a boulder rolling downhill and keeps readers glued to the pages. As the siblings work together to solve puzzles and survive dangers, they develop into well-drawn individuals with their own strengths and personalities. Supporting Cahill cast members come across as intentionally exaggerated caricatures, adding to the tale's breathless fun. The book dazzles with suspense, plot twists, and snappy humor, but the real treasure may very well be the historical tidbits buried in the story. Part of a multimedia launch including a Web site, collectable game cards, and a 10-title series (penned by different authors), this novel stands solidly on its own feet and will satisfy while whetting appetites for more.