Teaching during the Jurassic: Wit and Wisdom from an Old Hippie Teacher is a memoir in the vein of Bill Bryson's A Walk in the Woods. Instead of the Appalachian Trail, we follow all the twists and turns of Martin Settle's teaching career from his first approach to teaching as a hippie subversive to his eventual triumph as a self-actualized person.
Part memoir, part teaching guide, this book charts the "Jurassic" period of teaching - no personal computers, no cell phones, no internet, and the introduction of new social movements in the classroom (women's rights, civil rights, and gay rights). Settle addresses some of the universals of the profession - how to deal with administrators, behavioral problems in the classroom, the outsider student, the psychologically dangerous student, and more.
"Perfect for the reader who is an aspiring, current or retired educator, the book is also a must read for those who enjoy exploring the intersection between all domains of knowledge and long for hopeful possibilities for the future."
- Robert Corbin, PhD, Educational Consultant, International, Discovery Education
"In a year that's shown us just how essential good teachers are, Martin Settle's book Teaching During the Jurassic will leave you with a newfound respect for this noble profession."
-Taylor Bowler, lifestyle editor at Charlotte magazine
"There is wisdom in this book about not only enduring the teaching experience but prevailing as a self-actualized person. This memoir is a must read for all in the education profession."
-Jackie Fishman, National Teacher Leadership Team, Facing History and Ourselves