Don't You Dare Read This, Mrs. Dunphrey from Tracie

I am a middle school special education resource and dyslexia teacher. The demographic that I have served over the years has been largely comprised of students at-risk of not graduating and of low socioeconomic status. Many are dealing with very uncomfortable situations at home and this book has really made an impact. All of my students (even those who do not share any of Tish’s troubles) have experienced this impact. It has really opened them all up and helped them develop a greater sense of empathy. It has also helped them realize that there are people in their lives who care and will do everything in their power to protect them and their futures. Even my most reluctant readers enjoy the read aloud and actively participate in whole group discussion, often becoming very passionate about sharing their opinions and feelings about the characters as well as how the plot develops. It is a great read that I thoroughly enjoy every time I read it (even though that is often 4-5 times per day) and that leaves me emotional every time.