Between Home and School: Letters, Notes and Emails

by Bill Harley

Through a series of notes, letters and e -mails, award-winning author and recording artist Bill Harley traces a student's path through his school years from Kindergarten to high school graduation. Rhonda Bennet's communication with her son's teachers gives readers a window into the successes and failures, joys and sorrows of a boy, his mother, and the teachers they encounter. The communications are sometimes brief, sometimes extended, and range from the mundane (the Kindergartener who can't tie his shoes) to the deeply moving (the loss of a friend). With humor and insight, Harley gives us an idea of what is possible when parents and teachers are willing to communicate. These letters and notes will remind every parent and every teacher of their trials, challenges and surprises, and reaffirm the value in reaching out. As Harley notes in his introduction, it takes both the teacher and the parent, working together, to help a child through school and life. In a very readable, humorous and touching way, Harley asks all of us to be our best selves. "I love this lovely little book. I laughed and cried along with Tyler's mother and teachers as they worked together to mentor this young person." Amy Dickinson Bestselling author, Syndicated columnist "Ask Amy" "Bill Harley has found a story that shows us how good we can be, if we just let it happen." George Wood Principal, Middle and High Schools, Stewart OH Author, Time to Learn "Harley's keen understanding of the promise and possibility of clear and careful communication should be a lesson to us all." Claire Green President, Parents' Choice Foundation "Between Home and School provides a simple and beautiful example of a Mom and her son's teachers collaborating for long-term school success." Tim Sullivan Founder, School Family Media and PTO Today

60 pages, Paperback

First published July 16, 2010

About the author

A two-time Grammy award-winning artist and recipient of a Lifetime Achievement Award from the RI Council for the Humanities, Bill uses song and story to paint a vibrant and hilarious picture of growing up, schooling and family life. His work spans the generation gap, reminds us of our common humanity and challenges us to be our very best selves. A prolific author and recording artist, Bill tours nationwide as an author, performing artist and keynote speaker.

Reviews

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don't normally write about my reactions to a book. The fact that I am writing about this book can show you how much it impacted me.

This book is made up of fictional letters and notes between a mother and many of her son's teachers as he travels from kindergarten to 12th grade. It captures the best and worst attempts at communicating as the adults navigate the boy's triumphs and difficulties at home and school. Even though the letters are short, I gained much from this book. I laughed, got frustrated, pondered, and cried.

For all you teachers and parents out there, this is a great reminder about the power of our words. May we always remember the humanity and feelings of the people we are writing to (and about). Even though honest communication can sometimes be difficult, we have the awesome ability to work together to help a child. I believe the main point of the book is "just keep talking." A quick, moving read!

[Suzan Jackson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Favorite entertainer Bill Harley has written a warm and witty fictional exchange between a boy's mother and his teachers, from kindergarten through high school. This slim volume is the perfect gift for a special teacher in your own child's life! Here's my full review:

http://bookbybook.blogspot.com/2011/0...

[Pam · Rating 3 out of 5]

Very short, clever and insightful book of letters between an imaginary mother and her son's teachers from kindergarten through HS graduation. Great snapshot into the parent/teacher relationship. Illustrates the importance of thoughtful communication. Can be read in 20 minutes or less.