Breaking Chains: Overcoming Systemic Barriers

Against the Odds: Chronicles of Resilience, Book 1

De: Jordan Smith Jr EdD

Narrado por: Ashley Hudson

Racial profiling. Queer unacceptance. Deportation fears.

Exclusion, exclusion, exclusion... When a pair of dedicated educators begin to grow disillusioned with the failures of the traditional education system, they decide to take matters into their own hands...

Cue, Diversity Dawn Academy!

It is a day like any other in Ridgeview City, California—and to Benjamin Diamonds and Sarah Mitchell, that's not okay.

Combined decades worth of experience in the academe have shown them the things only students of marginalized groups have gone through: oppression, slurs, name-calling, beatings, and ostracization, all on account of things beyond their control. For the longest time, they felt the need to correct the situation but had no idea how to go about it...

Until a chance encounter unites Benjamin and Sarah, and everything changes. For the first time, they meet someone who shares their hunger for reform, enkindling a fire in their hearts.

Following a long, weary process laced with skepticism, harsh words, and communal backlash, they successfully establish an alternative education program. They encounter ups and downs, thicks and thins, but Diversity Dawn Academy and its students rise above them against all odds!

And as for Benjamin and Sarah, the unspoken feelings brewing between them soon become clear...

©2024 Jordan Smith Jr Ed.D. (P)2024 Jordan Smith Jr Ed.D.

Excellent Audiobook

The audiobook does an excellent job of illustrating the ups and downs, skepticism, harsh words, and communal backlash that Benjamin and Sarah face in their mission. Despite these challenges, Diversity Dawn Academy and its students rise above them, showcasing the power of perseverance and the importance of providing a supportive educational environment.

Great audiobook to build resilience

This audiobook is perfect for you if you like a great story that is filled with twists and turns while also learning at the same time. It captures your attention the whole time, and you will start to empathize with the characters naturally. I also can't reiterate enough how much you can learn. I would highly recommend this book; it is a great read.

Engaging and Inspiring

Against The Odds: Chronicles of Resilience" is a powerful story about overcoming systemic barriers in education. It follows teachers Benjamin and Sarah, along with their brave students, as they fight for equality and inclusitivy. The book addresses issues like racial profiling, queer unacceptance, and deportation fears, making it an inspiring and thought-provoking audio.

An Honest Look at Real World Struggles

This audiobook offers a thoughtful and personal look at how social and systemic barriers affect everyday life. It explores topics like inequality, education gaps, and justice with a tone that feels both honest and hopeful. I appreciated the stories that showed how people pushed through setbacks and found ways to rise above their situations, such as educators Benjamin Diamonds and Sarah Mitchell, who founded Diversity Dawn Academy. The advice on mindset, persistence, and community support felt grounded and real. While some parts were more motivational than detailed, the message stayed strong. A meaningful listen for anyone seeking change and understanding.

Powerful and Personal Hit Me Right in the Heart

This book felt like someone finally put into words what so many go through but rarely talk about. The stories were raw, real, and incredibly motivating. It doesn’t just highlight the barriers it shows how people rise anyway. I saw pieces of my own journey in these pages, and it left me feeling both challenged and inspired. If you’ve ever felt like the system was stacked against you, this one will speak to your soul.