The Water Is Wide: A Memoir
by Pat Conroy
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Book Summary Information
Author: Pat ConroyEdition: Paperback
Audio: English (Unknown); English (Original Language); English (Published)
Published: 2002-10
ISBN: 0553381571
Number of pages: 320
Publisher: Dial Press Trade Paperback
Product features:
- ISBN13: 9780553381573
- Condition: New
- Notes: BRAND NEW FROM PUBLISHER! 100% Satisfaction Guarantee. Tracking provided on most orders. Buy with Confidence! Millions of books sold!
Book Reviews of The Water Is Wide: A Memoir
Book Review: A Wonderful Inspiration
Summary: 5 Stars
This book was selected for my book club, and I was indifferent about the subject matter, but Pat Conroy's writing, his unique voice, enthusiasm and humor quickly drew me in. His memoir is an unabashed testimony of the socioeconomic status of an isolated black community on an island off the coast of South Carolina during the tumultuous year of 1969. When he accepts a teaching job on the island, Conroy is confronted with the inadequacies of a system that does not regard the education of black children as a priority. In a south that is warily transitioning to integration, racism remains prevalent. Conroy deviates from the role of disciplinarian and textbook driven curriculum to transform illiterate children into students who care about education and bettering their lives. He is truly inspiring as he encourages the children to become fervent about learning.
At times I was confused by the bureaucracy of the administration and frustrated by the chain of command, but Conroy defiantly challenges the status quo when defending his methods and his students. The students themselves are a riot and Conroy conveys their ignorance to expose an innocence that is uncorrupted and malleable. The dialogue is humorous and Conroy effectively delivers the local color in his portrayal of the island and its inhabitants. I was so enamored with the story that it left me wanting more. I would have loved if there were an epilogue that depicted the island or Conroy's students ten or twenty years later. Regardless, this was a moving and inspirational tale of one man's effort to change lives.
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