Through Ebony Eyes: What Teachers Need to Know But Are Afraid to Ask About African American Students (Jossey-Bass Education)

This is an easy to read book with great information for teachers that they can use to inform their instructional practices in the classroom. It is also useful for staff developers who are presenting to educators about instructional needs of some African American students. We have found that the author provides answers to some of those frequently asked questions from teachers about educating African American students.

I have heard it all before. This writer only judges people by the color of their skin. She seems to take pleasure pointing out how wrong white people are about everything. Most of the book is based on her personal experiences, so she uses them to generalize for the whole population with a lot of sterotyping thrown in. She fails to realize that some people truley do not base their opinions of others on the color of their skin. Many people are raised to just love people and treat them with respect without concern of skin color. I found very little useful information.

This was a quick read, and very informative. It did include a lot of the author's personal experiences (making it quick), but didn't offer as much practical advice as I was hoping for. The book affirmed much of what I already know and do, but did not offer much in the way of new information. I do think I will try some of her other works that were referenced.

The reason I like this book is because, even though it was written by an African American author, it offers NO EXCUSES. I am an Urban School, middle class, white male teacher, and I love my job and my students. The reality, however, is that (in the words of Malcolm X) "African Americans will never be respected and treated equally until they become educated and earn the respect of other races." A lot of books I have read on helping African American students have made excuses, blaming other races and living situations, and the system, etc. This writer offers no excuses and just explains why some children act the way that they do and how to then deal with them. It also offers suggestions how to counter-act their excuses and complaints to show them success. I love it!!!!!

This book would serve as a good reference for anyone teaching students of color. I have read many books on ways to teach minorities. This book is one that I refer to constantly.