One year in the Australian classroom 6C is described in free verse by hippie, unconventional, nurturing teacher Mr. Carey and his elevenand twelve-year-old students. J-man the rapper, Emily the ballerina, Sophie the poet, Billy the punk, and others experience yoga, Shakespeare, belly dancing, unusual cocurricular activities, and produce a variety concert. Funny, easily accessible poems and childlike black-and-white drawings clearly present Mr. Carey’s classroom, where each student is valued and given the opportunity to explore and succeed. Children’s Book Council of Australia Notable Book (Young Readers Category). mjw

Originally published by Allen & Unwin Australia, in 2005.