I read – a lot.  Passionate about education and our public education system, the majority of what I read are education related books, journals, newsletters, Internet articles, etc.  I recognize that not everyone has the time or the inclination to read every book or article that comes across his or her piled desk no matter how reputable the organization: ASCD, Learning Forward, Education Week and so on.  Given that our time is already taxed to the limit, I am committed to consistently synthesizing current key books and articles that I find of particular note for my readers.  By providing this blog, my readers can easily digest and discern whether they want to read the material personally or get the “gist” of it from me.  I will offer my ideas and thoughts on these readings, but mainly stick with the author’s point.  Every one of my Essential Reviews will be followed up with questions. I will invite the author to join us for a discussion, to blog with us on the important ideas and topics they address in their writing.  And I invite you, Dear Blogger, to drive the conversation forward by adding your ideas and questions so that we may better serve our youth as we continue down the long road towards increased student achievement and opportunity and self actualization.  If you, Dear Blogger, have a book or article you want me to review, please let me know and I’ll follow through with your request just as fast as my aging eyes can read.  Thank you for reading The Essential Review!  C