Publisher Description
David McCullough, Jr.’s high school commencement address of 2012, dubbed “You Are Not Special,” was a tonic for children, parents, and educators alike. With wit and a perspective earned from raising four children and teaching high school students for nearly thirty years, McCullough expands on his speech—taking a hard look at hovering parents, questionable educational goals, professional college prep, electronic distractions, and club sports—and advocates for a life of passionate engagement.
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“McCullough
really gets where kids are coming from—he understands them on a level that’s,
like, micro…When it comes to closing the gap that exists between teens and
adults, McCullough proves an expert bridge builder. In his book, he uses his
now-famous speech as a jumping-off point, encouraging young people to cultivate
intellectual curiosity, compassion, and self-reliance. He also demystifies
parental behavior—an undertaking for which he’s overqualified as a father of four.
Smart but not condescending, knowing but never a know-it-all, McCullough—a
longtime high school teacher—issues small admonishments to teens (text less,
read more) in a tone that’s exceedingly collegial.”—
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