This summer the ISI at PAWLP is hoping to introduce our newest TCs to some writing heroes. At the Spring Meeting, over a dinner, a few of us discussed who we hold as our hero, those brave men and women who blazed the trail, did the initial research, andhelped create writing instruction as we know it today. Of course, Donald Graves and Donald Murray were immediately mentioned. Who are your writing heroes? What books do you hold on to and return to because they are timeless?
Responses
My "heroes," Brenda, include the two you already mention plus Peter Elbow and Ralph Fletcher. I also have to give props to Lucy Caulkins and The Art of Teaching Writing, which was influential to me as someone new to the profession, working with elementary-age students.
Great questions. Look forward to seeing who else gets added here.
Two people I'd add to the list are Jim Moffett and Ken Macrorie. Ken's writing and research always pointed to the need for authenticity and honesty, both in writing and in teaching. Jim's work focused on those two principles as well. His array of writing assignments (presented so well in his book Active Voice) remains my "go to" source for generative, engaging writing.
Thanks for the questions, Brenda. Like Paul, I hope to see others jump in with their heroes here.