Review of The Student and The Teacher

[Seetha E]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "The Student and The Teacher" by Ronald F. Henry.]

---

5 out of 5 stars

---

Share This Review

---

The author introduces us to four Black male friends: Tony, Dee, Chris, and Little Will. All are under twenty. Tony, the brightest one, never knew his father and had lost his mother to drugs. He lived with his uncle. Having gone down the same path during his youth, Uncle Will experienced his share of disasters: illegal activities, prison, and a realization that set in late. Uncle Will warned Tony and his friends that they were heading for prison or the grave. Unfortunately, the boys viewed their actions as a coping mechanism; they did not know any better and had no one to hand-hold or show that an alternative existed. Intoxication, midnight misadventures, common challenges they faced, and the pursuit of a better life connected them.
 
The second chapter talks about Anwar, the teacher, and his wife, Essence. Essence is no more. Empowered by her encouragement and the Twelve Jewels of Life she had shared with him, he found his purpose in life: to use his journey as a map to guide the young ones in the community. The author, Ronald F. Henry, is serving life without parole in Georgia’s correctional facility. The Student and the Teacher is his third book. Readers will agree that Anwar’s understanding of the challenges faced by youngsters and the guidance required comes from the author’s own experiences. The aim is to foster a strong bond between the youngsters and their role models. He hopes to guide, educate, and empower youngsters toward a better life, away from the streets filled with crime and other dangers.
 
As time passed, Chris and Tony were a unit, and Dee and Little Will had paired up. What initially indicated danger had transformed into a means of survival and power. They were now experiencing a different kind of high. Chris’ sister, Michelle, and Tony’s uncle, Will, were helpless observers. Michelle saw that Tony was different and hinted that a new life was possible. One friend fell prey to relationship issues. Another friend was facing twenty years in federal prison for engaging in illegal activities. Yet another friend had contracted HIV: a result of his promiscuous behavior. Tony could see what lay ahead if he continued on the same path. Anwar had offered a helping hand, but is Tony willing to walk the talk on the path of transformation? Pick up a copy to find out.
 
Through this narrative, the author aims to connect with young, directionless kids before it is too late. He shares a glimpse of what lies ahead on their ill-informed path toward doom with the hope of redirecting them to an alternative that would define a clean future. A gentle welcome, a willingness to listen, and a series of interactions follow. “Don’t be scared. Embrace life. Life is for the living.” This is an important message for every reader. The author discusses distractions, identity, family, friends, education, religion, relationships, socio-economic dynamics, and the five components of American society. He emphasizes the importance of love, peace, and happiness in every individual’s life. He boldly points out the flaws in society and also indicates why these flaws are “created.”
 
I appreciate that the author insists on reading all the religious scriptures, even if one does not believe in God and religion. He encourages reading so that we can make informed choices and resist outdated influences. Anwar refers to Christ, Allah, Jehovah, and Yahweh. Though I am not a follower of the referenced religions, I can confirm that these references are genuine and respectful. The message in this section applies equally to all religious groups and subgroups, as much as to non-religious readers.
 
The systematic approach that addresses a wide array of topics impresses me. The questionnaire is insightful and practically ready to use if someone is interested in setting up a community center (with tweaking as required by specific groups and pain points). I did spot a few errors. These did not impact my reading experience in any way. With no negative comments or suggestions to offer, I gladly rate it five out of five.

******
The Student and The Teacher
View: on Bookshelves

[Onyemuwa-dave]

The raw depiction of Tony and his friends' struggles and Anwar's mission to guide them sounds deeply moving. Knowing the author's background makes his aim to redirect young, directionless kids even more powerful. Your 5-star rating and praise for its vital message are truly impactful. Thanks you.

[Helen Buenaflor]

Filled with sparkling wisdom Anwar the 'teacher' is also challenged by the arrested development mentality of these young male.

[Kibet Hillary]

The best way to bring up children is by showing the way, and the right way, when they are still young. What stands out the most for me in this book is the author's motivation to encourage the young to be inquisitive and each one will definitely find the path that leads them home. Many thanks for the amazing review, @Seetha E.

[Kutloano Makhuvhela]

This seems to be a book worth my time. Thank you for taking time to share your thoughts about it with us. You did a stellar job.

[Priya Murugesan]

As you said, the author's background plays an important role in this successful book. Eager to read this book. Thanks for sharing your valuable review!

[NetMassimo]

This seems like a classic cautionary tale, but this one was written by someone who went on the wrong path and is paying the price. I hope the author is successful in helping young people in finding a good path that can lead them to a good life. Thank you for your great review!