A classroom is first a relationship between teacher and students and among students themselves. A good classroom builds on conversations, not as listening labs of students sitting at their desks. Throughout my career from 1962 to 1999, “Teacher in the Rye” offers ideas, methods, and incentives to teachers to be open to creative and imaginative ways to inspire students. Once teachers sense the power and pleasure of being themselves with their students, learning becomes central. Classrooms with no devices may be the last best hope for engaging face-to-face learning in today's dominate digitally driven culture. A human treasure we cannot afford to lose.

From Peter Washburn, a former student: "In my heart you are the archetype of what makes a great teacher. I am very grateful to have spent time as your student. I could tell that you loved being a teacher. Your stories from Russia had a big influence on me. It helped me realize early that around the world, people are just people, and most people can enjoy each other’s company."