“You have to keep breathing because tomorrow the sun may shine”.  “Keep on keep on”

The pencil project is a wonderful book. I enjoyed reading it and am trying to get my 14-year-old daughter to read it too. The author is an excellent writer.

For me, there is not much difference between the teachers - Mr. Kent in the USA and Mr. Etoundi in Cameroon. Although both teachers were from two different continents, two different cultures, yet both loved their callings, loved their children/students immensely and did all they can to impact their lives.

I was wondering about the target audience- is it a children’s book? By Children, I am referring to Elementary and High Schoolers. One thing that I am sure about is that,  it is very inspirational. I will label as an inspirational book that targets all. This book also inspires race relations- diversity and the willingness to reach out to all peoples. It inspires to look beyond one’s box, appreciate your situation, and the willingness to use one’s resources, and talents to give back to the society. The students too loved to work hard, and compete with their classmates and at the same time give positive feedback to one another’s works. There was no display of hatred and bullying.

Look at the parents: all the parents- in both the USA and Cameroon were involved in their children’s lives and Education. They were willing to leave their comfort zones, neighbors, and families for the Education of their children. They worked hard to encourage and provide for their children’s education. This is what is needed in the world today - parents and families being involved in the education of their children. Doing all they can to help their children dream and realize their dreams.

Maybe, the author should think about a follow-up book that will follow the adult lives and works of these students in both Cameroon and the USA.

This is a book that inspires you to give back. And in giving back, to consider not only big things but little things like pencils, erasers, books, toothbrushes, pastes - those little things that so many of us take for granted are Jewels in many communities.

Thank you for the opportunity of reading this book.

 By Abdul P.