WHAT TEACHERS MAKE In Praise of the Greatest Job in the World

Adam Verner's reading starts off with a tone of sarcasm as author Taylor Mali discusses the negative remarks some people make about teachers and his anger at those remarks. However, Verner’s tone gives way to excitement and pride as Mali tells listeners what teachers do to shape their students. Listeners can feel Mali's joy when his ideas "catch fire." Mali, who wrote the poem "What Teachers Make," no longer heads a classroom. Still, he draws on years of experience as he tells anecdotes that illustrate the book's points. It's a breezy listen, with Mali's writing and Verner's delivery often taking on poetic qualities. The book is likely to attract those who already agree with Mali, but critics of educators should listen as well. J.A.S. © AudioFile 2012, Portland, Maine [Published: APRIL 2012]