I generally try not to go around recommending books that I haven't completely read, but I'm making an exception this time. Last night (when most humans are sleeping, and only the nutcases/insomniacs are listening to the radio) I made what has turned out to be a regular appearance to yak about education on the Joey Reynolds show. I typically go on with Lincoln Elementary School (Mt. Vernon) principal George Albano (Captain Lou's brother.) One of the guests with us this time was a Kansas City-based writer who is currently promoting his first book, Cross X.

The book, by Joe Weber, follows a year in the life of an innercity Kansas City high school debate team that ends up getting ranked #10 in the country. But it is really about race, class, education, bureaucracy, and the persistence of both teachers and students to defy the odds.

I really liked the guy and what I've already read has me convinced this one will be great addition to the edubookshelves of Chalkboard readers. (Joe is doing a reading in Harlem tonight at the Hue-Man Bookstore.)