January 2024: Cracks in the Sidewalk

Inspire authentic writing in your classroom, using this collection of Harlem-inspired stories as a guide. 

Brought to you by the Student Press Initiative​

ENTER TO WIN

​ABOUT THE BOOK
In an era dominated by aliteracy, where the allure of multimedia often eclipses the written word, Cracks in the Sidewalk emerges as a guiding light for educators seeking to rekindle a passion for reading and writing among the youth.

This transformative collection delves into the lives of ninth grade students at Heritage High School, offering a peek into life in Harlem and authentic experiences that bridge the gap between young minds and the written word. Teachers and students embark on a dialectic exploration, unraveling tales of everyday life, personal struggles, and triumphs. Fueled by moments of frustration, discovery, tenderness, and unparalleled courage, this anthology captures the essence of a shared learning experience where both educators and students become each other’s teachers.

Cracks in the Sidewalk stands as a testament to the enduring power of storytelling and the potential for genuine connection through written expression.

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INSPIRE AUTHENTIC WRITING
Cracks in the Sidewalk can serve as a versatile tool for educators, fostering literary exploration workshops that prompt discussions on the significance of authentic storytelling and self-expression. Through creative writing exercises, students can use this anthology as a launching pad for sharing their own stories, emphasizing the importance of vulnerability and honesty in their narratives.

The book's richness extends to cross-curricular connections, offering opportunities for collaboration with social studies or history classes to explore the cultural and historical contexts presented in the students' stories. Additionally, this text can be used to promote discussions, where a sense of community is fostered and peer-to-peer learning encouraged. Cracks in the Sidewalk transcends its role as a collection of stories; it becomes a catalyst for educators to inspire a generation to embrace the written word with authenticity and courage, both within the classroom and beyond.