If you have watched The Freedom Writers Diary then you know the basics of this book, but if you enjoyed the film then you may find that you also really enjoy the book. I don't know that Erin did anything extraordinary with her teaching, but I love how much she cared for her students. Sometimes just showing that you care about the student is enough of a motivation to work harder and achieve success. I'm amazed by her connections and the incredible experiences she was able to provide for her students. I'm disappointed that she stopped teaching after a few years and I'm disappointed by the need to paint her fellow teachers in such a negative light. Borrow it. ( )

I found this book to be very inspirational in showing how one individual can affect so many other lives, fortunately for the better. I felt that Erin Gruwell was very self-effacing and not seeking glory nor praise. Her story was told in a very matter-of-fact manner and could have been plumped out with a lot more interesting information. The antagonism shown to her by her teaching colleagues was to be expected and I am amazed that she survived the atmosphere created through jealousy. I gave this book to my daughter, who is a Primary School Teacher, and she was extremely touched and motivated by it. Compelling real-life reading!! ( )

I enjoyed The Freedom Writers Diary, so I picked this book up in order to add context to the students' stories. I wanted to know who and what was behind these young peoples' voices. Turns out Erin Gruwell is not nearly as interesting or as talented a writer as some of her students. I am oddly compelled by this story, probably because I am a teacher and the thought of a teacher bringing about what Erin helped bring about helps feed my passion for education.

On the other hand, I'm not sure I think Erin is the best role model for other teachers. What she accomplished with her students was wonderful, yes, but what she sacrificed for her job was not. She essentially sacrificed her marriage in favor of her job and the amount of time she spent in school during that time left no other time for a personal life. She worked 3 different jobs, and while admirable, it doesn't leave room for much else in life other than work.

I also wonder about her motivations for such dedication to her job, to the detriment of her personal life AND her relationships with fellow teachers, really were. In her book, she lists all the things that happened to her but fails to give any insight. Her chapters were all about the same length, even ones that covered big events in her and her students' lives. Also, she left public school as soon as the Freedom Writers graduated. I wonder what she would have done if she stuck around, or if she quit because she wanted to go out on top. ( )