"Miss?" Paperback – November 14, 2013

Laurel McHargue published a book about a young Army veteran and teacher struggling in her first year on the job at a public school. The story is riveting. I really love reading books that let me glimpse into the soul of the author. This is one.More than that, the book has something to say that is extremely relevant to our education system today. It is entertaining, suspenseful, sad and delightful! McHargue has style. She also has vision and shares it incredibly well in this book. I look forward to reading more books penned by her.Please, buy "Miss" now. You may want to crack it open on a weekend when you can just sit back and enjoy it from cover to cover. You will not be able to put it down.

A must read for anyone who went to school or know someone who is currently a teacher; student or administrator. Brings the current situation in public education to light with humor and behind the scenes experiences that ring true. As a former teacher (in the 70's), it's alarming to see what the Federal Government's attempts to set 'standards' for each state's educational system with a "one size fits all' evaluation program has done to a teacher's ability to meet the needs of each of her students. It punishes the teachers whose students suffer from learning disabilities or cultural disadvantages. If I were given an achievement test in Spanish, I would certainly not 'meet the standards' of a system taught and measured in the English language. This book is a readable, entertaining...easy to read story that makes this point without being 'preachy'. A highly recommended read.

What makes a good book, in my opinion, is when I find myself thinking about the characters and wanting to get back to them when I've put the book down. This book certainly delivered that. The story is sad, heartwarming and thought provoking all at the same time. Each character in the book touched my heart in some way...the teacher wanting so badly to help her students, the students wanting so badly to be accepted, and the people who tried to provide all the answers without a clue as to the real question.I would recommend this story to anyone who wants to lose themselves in a story, but with the warning that once you're in it is difficult to come back out.

What I love most about this book is how it recounts a teacher's experience with complete honesty. The author makes no attempt to be politically correct or apologetic towards our educational system which seems to be increasingly failing students, especially in the more challenging (less affluent) demographic. I can clearly hear the conversations with the students in the book, as I have had some experience working with the kids in our local public schools; she recounts the students' attitudes and mannerisms with precision. The author describes all of the sad challenges that teachers face, which I hope will lead to a real and honest discussion about improving education beyond meaningless talking points. Interwoven in the story the characters go through some very human experiences that I can relate to as well, which makes the book relatable, fun and interesting.

Wonderful story of a determined middle school teacher trying to impart knowledge while coping with behavioral problems of at-risk children in an inner city school. Engaged from the first paragraph I read the book in a single sitting, alternately laughing out loud and nearly crying. Has all the elements of a good read-- a dog, a love interest, a neighbor with a joke for every situation, and the ring of truth about the plight of both students and teachers in our school system. Highly recommended even for those of us without children.

Wonder what teachers and kids go through in school during this generation? Then get a copy of this book or better yet download one. Kids and teachers face an electronic age that encourages interaction with devices. Now in a "sue happy" society there is reluctance to show concern and kindness through human touch. Touch is a powerful motivator and healer! Miss McHargue sets the stage and takes us on a journey through present-day sterility. Children, teachers and parents are headed for the "boy in the bubble" society. Don't touch, don't hug, don't pat on the back, don't look at improvement in growth of life skills. In my mind the center stage Laurel directed through this book cries for motivation, love, teaching skill that will impact quality of life! Way to go!We need good teachers who love kids and love to teach, allowing them to show success in skills that will impact the lives of the children in a positive way. Teaching to tests? Not in my book….. I love how she got her points across!I love the characters and the humor… Kudos Laurel !

While this is a work of fiction, I wish it weren't so true to life when it comes to the state our inner city public schools. Sad but true. I'm not a teacher, but have many friends who are and I hear stories about "no child left behind" programs and test scores all the time. While telling it like it is at school the author also mixes in a little romance, a little sorrow, and a joke cracking neighbor into the mix to make the story a real page turner. So whether you're a teacher or not it's a good read. If you're a teacher, it's a must read!

The concept was good, though I felt like it dragged on a little bit and strayed from the main story. If your looking for something light to read and just want something silly and an easy read, this a good book for you.