Young people in America today face a crisis of character. Traditional role models continue to disappoint the public, falling short of expectations and fostering cynicism rather than idealism. As a result, many young people struggle to distinguish right from wrong and seem indifferent to whether it matters.
"Offers American parents and teachers precisely what we need and so sorely lack-- a moral vision of how we ought to live with one another and the heart of what 'character education' is meant to teach us: an ethics that is affirmed in our day-to-day engagement with our fellow human beings."
--Robert Coles, professor of psychiatry and medical humanities, Harvard University
"A timely, well-written, immensely practical, breakthrough book that will awaken our minds and hearts and remind us of our moral obligation to our greatest resource and our future: our children."
--Stephen R. Covey, author of The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People
"Packed with practical and inspiring wisdom about what schools, families, and young people themselves can do to build good character."
--Thomas Lickona, director, Center for the 4th and 5th Rs (Respect and Responsibility)
"Without preaching, Ryan and Bohlin have written a book that is important, enjoyable reading for anyone concerned with contemporary education."
--Publisher's Weekly
"For those willing to take up the task of teaching ethics, the book provides a practical blueprint for teachers, schools, and parents."
--Booklist
"After the book has inspired you, you can mine the appendices, which include such practical treasures as 'One Hundred Ways to Bring Character Education to Life, ' sample lesson plans, and a list of programs and phone numbers to call when your school is in dire need of civility."
--The American School Board Journal