"I like the fact that it’s written from a peer to peer point of view. I like the fact that it addresses character education. We really have failed to teach core values. If those things were emphasized more, you wouldn’t have a gang problem."
Nina M. Wells
Secretary of State of New Jersey
Mr. Burgess:
I was stopped in the hall by one of our Intervention teachers who shared how enthusiastically our students have been reading your books. She expressed amazement that she has actually had to ask students to put your book away, since that’s all they want to read. She has noticed many of the 3rd through 5th graders reading No Bandanas for Me and her excitement was evident. Several of our parents applauded us for purchasing your book for our students since they recognize that gang activity is a growing problem in this community. I am pleased that your book is available to touch young lives. Thank you for writing your book and thank you for patiently working with our school so that we could make this worthwhile purchase. Have a great day! Louis Barnett, School Social Worker
Louis Barnett/Social Worker
Brehm Elementary School
Baltimore City Schools
"It really speaks to our kids and let them know there are alternatives to gang life."
Constance Frazier
Assistant Superintendent
Orange Board of Education
Orange, New Jersey
"Cool Calvin’s message immediately grabbed my students attention. He quickly proved to be a role model who gained their respect and inspired them to take a strong stand against gang lifestyles. When the students took Cool Calvin’s anti-gang pledge it almost made me cry. No book has ever captivated them in such a way."
Leah Jones
Third Grade Teacher
Philadelphia School District