Buddha in the Classroom

Zen Wisdom to Inspire Teachers

By: Donna Quesada

Narrated by: Emily Gray

Donna Quesada had been teaching for about a dozen years when the first signs of burnout hit her. Rather than give into her frustration, she reached for Buddha’s teachings - the Zen wisdom that formed the basis of her own longtime spiritual practice. She survived the semester and gradually rediscovered the joy of teaching that had been progressively declining. In this wonderful book, she shares the lessons she learned - lessons that reveal time and again: No matter the situation, resolution begins in our own hearts and minds. Some days, some semesters, and even some years will be more challenging and more wearisome than others, she warns. But in Buddha in the Classroom, Quesada offers a lasting source of encouragement and inspiration. Although the book draws from Eastern teachings, the wisdom is for everyone, regardless of personal background, creed, or faith.

With elements of The Last Lecture as well as Chicken Soup for the Teacher’s Soul, this is the perfect gift for teachers - but also for anyone needing inspiration.

©2011 Donna Quesada (P)2012 Audible, Inc.

Mostly relevant for College Professors

I expected this to be more applicable to my work as an elementary school teacher, but that’s my fault for not reading the fine print. I found it ironic that she misused the phrase “throw down the gauntlet” in a chapter complaining about her student’s poor grammar and writing. Overall though I enjoyed listening, even though it is not directly applicable to my work.

Centered in Teaching

A 5th year classroom teacher, this book was tge perfect self-check for all my restless angst!