Elaine's Circle: A Teacher, a Student, a Classroom, and One Unforgettable Year

Have you ever had an unforgettable teacher who changed your life forever?“There are books that you read that stay with you all your life— Elaine’s Circle will be one of them.”—Lynne Cox, author of Swimming to AntarcticaIn Eagle River, Alaska, teachers are under pressure to "teach to the test." Elaine Moore, however, has devoted her career to teaching what she believes is the most crucial lesson of all, that learning only matters in its relationship to others. In Elaine’s Circle, that lesson will be put to its most severe test.Elaine has been told that Seamus, a popular 4th grade boy in her class, has terminal brain cancer. Elaine's Circle is the true story of how this courageous teacher rallied an entire community in support of her bold decision to engage the students in the most difficult conversation of all, the impending death of their friend and classmate.This true-life story surges with drama as students, townsfolk and, most of all, Elaine Moore embark on a turbulent yet uplifting journey. With raging battles being fought today over what can be taught in schools and who gets to decide, Elaine’s Circle stands as an inspiring example of how a determined, compassionate teacher can bring people together when they are most in need.“This book is a gift. It’s a reminder of the profound lessons that can happen daily in the classroom of a gifted teacher. Elaine’s Circle is also a lesson about what children are capable of when treated with honesty and respect."-- Marc Brown, author and executive producer of "Arthur" on PBS KidsRead ELAINE’S CIRCLE today to discover the remarkable true story of how this dedicated teacher, a supportive community, and a group of fourth graders succeeded in creating a community ‑ a circle ‑ so strong that an ailing boy’s last wish is to never leave it. Read more