In conversation with Dr. Paula Knight, Superintendent of Schools – Jennings School District.

Over twenty years ago, the students in first-year teacher Erin Gruwell’s high school class were labeled “unteachable.” Gruwell understood that each of her students had a unique story to tell. Inspired by books like Anne Frank’s diary, her students began writing their own diaries, eventually dubbing themselves the Freedom Writers. Together, they launched a movement that remains incredibly impactful today. In “Dear Freedom Writer,” the next generation of Freedom Writers shares its struggles with racism, poverty, mental health, and LGBTQIA+ identity. Through its inspiring stories, “Dear Freedom Writer” paints an unflinchingly honest portrait of today’s youth and offers a powerful message of perseverance, understanding, and hope.

Books available from Left Bank Books : https://www.left-bank.com/book/9780593239865

Presented by theSt. Louis County Library and HEC Media.