Through Ebony Eyes: What Teachers Need to Know But Are Afraid to Ask about African American Students

by Gail L. Thompson

Book Overview

In this book, Gail L. Thompson takes on the volatile topic of the role of race in education and explores the black-white achievement gap and the cultural divide that exists between some teachers and African American students. Solidly based on research conducted with 175 educators, Through Ebony Eyes provides information and strategies that will help teachers increase their effectiveness with African American students. Written in conversational language, Through Ebony Eyes offers a wealth of examples and personal stories that clearly demonstrate the cultural differences that exist in the schools and offers a three-part, long-term professional development plan that will help teachers become more effective.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0787970611
• ISBN13: 9780787970611
• Release Date: April 2004
• Publisher: Jossey-Bass
• Length: 328 Pages
• Weight: 1.20 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.2" x 6.3" x 9.3"

Customer Reviews

Great Book

This is an easy to read book with great information for teachers that they can use to inform their instructional practices in the classroom. It is also useful for staff developers who are presenting to educators about instructional needs of some African American students. We have found that the author provides answers to some of those frequently asked questions from teachers about educating African American students.

No excuses!!!

The reason I like this book is because, even though it was written by an African American author, it offers NO EXCUSES. I am an Urban School, middle class, white male teacher, and I love my job and my students. The reality, however, is that (in the words of Malcolm X) "African Americans will never be respected and treated equally until they become educated and earn the respect of other races." A lot of books I have read on helping African American students have made excuses, blaming other races and living situations, and the system, etc. This writer offers no excuses and just explains why some children act the way that they do and how to then deal with them. It also offers suggestions how to counter-act their excuses and complaints to show them success. I love it!!!!!

Love of Learning

This book would serve as a good reference for anyone teaching students of color. I have read many books on ways to teach minorities. This book is one that I refer to constantly.

Walk a Mile in My Shoes

Through Ebony Eyes tackles a difficult subject with grace and truth. The author, a Black woman, has been a student, a classroom teacher, a college professor, and a teacher of teachers. She knows her subject intimately. As an educator, my goal is to teach all students to the best of my ability. Before I read this book, I would have said that I was a color-blind teacher, looking at all students the same. I had to come to grips with my own cultural identity and biases. Ms. Thompson doesn't condemn or belittle but believes that all teachers desire their students to learn and excel. This is a sociological study complete with research data, charts and graphs and case studies but is not intimidating to read. At the end she includes a program for educators to pursue to improve their teaching of children of color, and a list of books to read and reflect on. I want to empasize that this book is not a "preachy" book, but one I found revealing and extremely readable. I would recommend this book highly to anyone in the field of education, anyone thinking of becoming an educator, and to parents.

Great Minds

One of the most candid and heartwarming books on education, this book neither minces words nor fails to use them effectively. The personal narratives give it a highly approachable feeling, making for an easy read on a difficult subject. I recommend this book for educators and non-educators, for anyone who cares about our children and their well-being.