`Reading each chapter brought me back to why I chose this profession and why I must stay. . . . The book can easily be read in one sitting although I recommend using each chapter as topics for reflection and introspection. This is one of those books I plan to keep and reread each time the going gets tough' Marta Cruz-Janzen, Associate Professor Florida Atlantic University

This thoughtful volume about becoming a teacher is structured as a series of reflective conversations between a young woman about to begin her first year as a school teacher.

Readers will find themselves effortlessly drawn into these fascinating dialogues that encourage them to reflect on, reexamine, and refine what they believe to be the elements of good teaching and the characteristics of good teachers: Mission and Vision; Expectations; Caring; Commitment; Respect; Observation, Cultural Awareness; Balance; Teambuilding; Growth and Knowledge.

The writing style is highly readable and engaging, and the conversations extend from educational theory through practical classroom strategies and teaching models. This volume will challenge beginning teachers to think about how they can become the teachers they want to be and will revitalize veteran teachers by reminding them of the reasons and desires that compelled them to teach in the first place. An eclectic list of suggested readings rounds out the volume and a detailed index allows access to core topics covered throughout the text.