An Irreverent Ride Through Middle School
James Parry, a retired Spokane, Washington middle school teacher reflects on his career. In this humorous and poignant memoir, he reminds us that middle school/junior high is where and when the hormones hit the fan. It’s the place where the parameters of life suddenly enlarge; where one is stuck between childhood and adulthood.
This is a tale of survival—of both students and teachers. It is a bittersweet account of a middle school teaching career which readers will find both amusing and touching (and, at times, infuriating). They will be transported back to those pubescent, and prepubescent, days of infatuation, torment, exhilaration, heartache, insecurity, disappointment, and just plain silly [read: bizarre] behavior.
The story follows the adolescent years of Danny, a rough-around-the-edges seventh grader, who comes from a dysfunctional family and, serendipitously, ends up under the author’s wing.
This is a book about students, teachers, administrators, and parents; some crazy, some pathetic, some comical, some wonderful. It is a personal, realistic look at our public school system and those who suffer within its grasp.
Your book is funny, witty, and often poignant. It was great!
Don Miller, retired principal
The book is fantastic; too good to believe! I cannot put the book down.
Dave Morton, retired teacher
Great read!
Frank Oberst, teacher
I enjoyed the humor and compassion that you mixed throughout the book. Once I started it, I had a tough time putting it down.
Doug Bender, not a teacher or administrator
