Black Ants and Buddhists: Thinking Critically and Teaching Differently in the Primary Grades

I have recommended this book to everyone I know who interacts with children, including a high school student who is completing an internship at her adjoining elementary school. I've also given the book to parents because it presents wonderful ways of relating to children. I am appalled by the lockstep, test-taking, "start them out of the womb" approach that so many are advocating as education these days. I am very worried about children experiencing the current educational system. So many of them are wounded and under-encouraged to learn. They are being taught to take tests, cheat and play the system. That is not learning. Children need the opportunity to think, create and have fun, and Black Ants and Buddhists is a brilliant example of true learning. Mary Cowhey recognizes that children are quite capable of understanding complex issues if presented in a way that allows for their participation. When reviewers accuse her of pushing her political agenda or unduly influencing children in age-inappropriate ways, I think they are underestimating the abilities of these children to understand the world and to make their own judgements about social issues. If you notice, the children don't always agree with her or with each other; it's in talking it through that they all learn something. I only wish that all teachers were like Mary Cowhey. I am currently writing a book about teaching (30 years of using activity based methods with adults) and I am using this book as part of my research because the same techniques she uses with children apply to adults. We all learn best when we are engaged, excited and having a good time.

Excellent book for elementary and early childhood teachers

I cannot rave about this book enough! If you are going to be a teacher or are one already you have to read this book! In this book Mary Cowey tells you about her diverse classroom and all of the many conversations she has with her children. She talks about how she teaches them social justice, and going against the main stream way of teaching. I have cried many times reading this book because it is so moving. She give so many examples of how she taught lesson, what books she used etc. ABSOLUTELY AMAZING! I am going to be a teacher and after reading this book I think every teacher should have to before entering a classroom!

This book is something that should be required reading for every future educator. Mary Cowhey has a way with words and a way of relating her life to what happens in the classroom- truly, after reading this book, most of my doubts about being a teacher who can impact students' lives were lifted. I really cannot say enough good things about this book. It's not pretentious, it isn't preachy- it's very real. Realness is what is needed in this changing educational climate. Please check this book out- keep it on your book shelf. One of the few textbooks I'm thankful for having to purchase- a book I'll cherish for the rest of my life.

Friendly, practical and honest. As a teacher myself I found it inspiring and timely and a very worth while look at spontaneous, humane teaching and learning.

Fabulous and informative book! I highly appreciate the narrative style of the writer. This book really conveys how the talents of a person can translate into the super power of a teacher. Great ideas as well. Inspiring. Thank you! (And thank you to my sister for recommending me this book!

I am currently a student teacher and this was an amazing book to read to give me some hope as a "newbie" in this market. It made me feel inspired that I should have the confidence to teach in my own way with experiences that may be new and different to the traditional methods. Cowhey is conversational, empathetic and a bit of a hippie, if you will. But she is an amazing, honest and realistic teacher. I would recommend this book for anyone interested in education and the molding of young minds!

I LOVED this book! It provides amazing insights into supporting a classroom that is inquiry-driven. I was very encouraged by the author's generous sharing of (mostly) age-appropriate literature. She was also quick to point out that this style worked for her, given her political leanings. As a Canadian, the American History rhetoric got to be a bit tiring by the end of the book. I would certainly recommend this book for any educator who is interested in breaking out of the confines of teaching to standards tests or feels chained to a textbook series.

Fantastic read and loved the online edition!!!

Great condition, good read for course

Mary Cowhey speaks from the heart about her experience in the classroom as a teacher of social justice. Inspiring. Love her!

Condition was great. Came as advertised.

love it