Review of why whistle-blowers hesitate

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Diana Lowery
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Review of why whistle-blowers hesitate

Post by Diana Lowery »

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "why whistle-blowers hesitate" by Robert D. Durrett, Ed. D..]
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5 out of 5 stars
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As a retired educator, I was drawn to this story. Many books are published about corporate whistle-blowers but few deal with school districts. I have witnessed what happens to employees who try to report wrongdoings in the academic setting. Why Whistle-Blowers Hesitate confirmed my experience at the schools where I worked.

The subtitle of this book is What Do You Do When They Threaten to Kick the Wind Out of You? It is an autobiography of the author's experience twenty years ago as a school administrator in Texas. Robert D. Durrett, ED.D. explains how he spent years trying to right a wrong. His narrative is supported by documents and notes.

Although the documentation parts of the book were my least favorite, they lend credibility to Durret's tale. I appreciate that those technical chapters are broken up with passages from the author's childhood, his previous occupations, a political career, and family remembrances. Those stories provide a respite from the legal negotiations and technical information.

Other chapters cover his college days, meeting and marrying his wife, and his faith journey. This part of the book was my favorite. It explains the author's determination to stand his ground. Durrett has included several photographs that make it easier to relate to his family heritage. I like that the author attributes his work ethic to his father. I also appreciate the honor he gives to his supportive wife.

Halfway through the book, the author answers his question about what he did when he was threatened. I would recommend this book to anyone who is thinking about challenging an established system. Durrett's experience is an example of what can, and usually does, happen.

I appreciate the author's honesty and his proofreading skills. I found no reason to deduct any stars and happily give this book a five out of five-star rating.

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why whistle-blowers hesitate
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Amy Luman
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Post by Amy Luman »

I think that I can agree with the premise of this book. It’s sometimes difficult to want to do the right thing even if you know for sure what that is. I’m glad to know that the author has a great support in his wife and does seem to know the right thing to do. Thanks!
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Diana Lowery
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Post by Diana Lowery »

Amy Luman wrote: 29 Jul 2024, 16:56 I think that I can agree with the premise of this book. It’s sometimes difficult to want to do the right thing even if you know for sure what that is. I’m glad to know that the author has a great support in his wife and does seem to know the right thing to do. Thanks!
Thanks, Amy, I appreciate your thoughts.
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Post by Boring Pigeon »

Well, bless your heart! After reading this insightful review, it's clear that "Why Whistle-Blowers Hesitate" is truly a gem of a book. The author, Robert Durrett, has not only provided a well-documented account of his experience as a school administrator, but has also woven in personal stories and reflections that add depth and relatability to his journey.

Being a retired educator myself, I can't help but be drawn to such stories that shed light on the challenges faced by whistle-blowers in the academic setting. Durrett's honesty and attention to detail, as evidenced by the inclusion of supporting documents and notes, make this book all the more credible and engaging.

It's heartening to see that the author doesn't just focus on the technical aspects of the case, but also shares snippets from his childhood, his faith journey, and the unwavering support of his family. This balance keeps the reader invested and provides a much-needed breather from the legal intricacies.

By the halfway point of the book, Durrett answers the question that forms its subtitle - "What do you do when they threaten to kick the wind out of you?" This alone is enough reason to recommend this book to anyone considering challenging an established system.

With its honest storytelling, meticulous proofreading, and the author's admirable work ethic, "Why Whistle-Blowers Hesitate" deserves a solid five out of five stars. So go ahead, y'all, and grab yourself a copy of this inspiring and enlightening read! Unforgettable journey, filled with twists and turns.
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