Kramer, Pamela A. & Kappa Delta Pi. (2005). The ABC’s of Classroom Management: An A-Z Sampler for Designing Your Learning Community. Indianapolis: Kappa Delta Pi.

Pages: 86     Price: $10.95     ISBN: 0–912099–43–7

This is an excellent little book focusing on the basics of effective discipline. It is well organized and provides an easy to follow step-by-step format for teachers to utilize. The book is intended to be a guide and resource tool, not a magic solution to the age-old problem of classroom discipline.

The authors provide a list of common classroom problems and offer practical suggestions on how to handle each problem. Discipline has been the number one problem in education for the past 25 years, which clearly indicates that discipline is an ongoing process. The suggestions presented are practical, useful, and can be utilized by both novice and veteran teachers.

This book should be placed in the hands of all teachers at the beginning of the year. The quick search format allows teachers to go immediately to the problem they are encountering. It could also be used as a staff development tool throughout the school year.

The short amount of time required to read the book would be a solid investment for those who deal with students on a day to day basis. It could greatly enhance their success as a classroom teacher. The practical experience of the author is evident in that the solutions offered are practical and workable, not just full of theory and what should work. An enjoyable read!

Reviewed by Dr. David E. Lee, Educational Leadership and Research, University of Southern Mississippi.