Life, Literacy, and the Pursuit of Happiness

Award-winning principal and literacy advocate Don Vu examines six conditions of a school's culture of literacy (Commitment, Collection, Clock, Conversation, Connection, and Celebration), showing how to create an environment where all students--especially immigrant and refugee children--can thrive. Vu's work is a testament to the transformative power of reading--a key to opening the door for all to realize the American Dream.

Endorsements
> Life, Literacy, and the Pursuit of Happiness is rich in practical strategies, thought-provoking conversation topics, student and teacher voices, and inspiration. It is possible for all children to experience reading joy and succeed on short-term measures of success like standardized tests, but Barrett Ranch and schools like it show that when we focus on engaging and supporting readers and their families, children succeed and retain an appreciation for reading. Don Vu and the Barrett Ranch community have given us a gift--a glimpse into the messy but gratifying process of reimagining what reading looks like in our schools."
- DONALYN MILLER, award-winning teacher, staff development leader, and author of The Book Whisperer, Reading in the Wild, and Game Changer!: Book Access for All Kids

"Life, Literacy, and the Pursuit of Happiness is one of the most important books for educators today. Don Vu helps us reimagine what is possible when we create a culture of literacy and commit to student choice, agency, and independent reading. He weaves in personal story throughout, which helps illuminate the challenges and triumphs of the immigrant and refugee experience. The stories and strategies Vu shares, as well as the trade books he recommends, will help educators at all levels create the best environments possible for our immigrant and refugee children to thrive as readers, writers, and learners."
> "I love this book with all my heart. Don's expertise and personal journey make Life, Literacy, and the Pursuit of Happiness an instant standout in the world of literacy leadership. With poignant stories, a powerful refugee perspective, and practical strategies, it will help you deliver on the promise of making education the great equalizer."
-- BRAD GUSTAFSON, National Distinguished Principal, Author of Reclaiming Our Calling

"America is at a crossroads, yet Life, Literacy, and the Pursuit of Happiness tells us that a path to a better America can be made in our very own schools, with compassion, hope, and Vu's six conditions for a culture of literacy for all. This master storyteller weaves together his own immigrant story, his school's successes, and reading research into a beautifully inclusive fabric. This book will not only help you grow professionally, but truly touch your soul!"
> "There are few books I've read that speak as deeply to my heart as Life, Literacy, and the Pursuit of Happiness. Don Vu takes you on a personal journey that is incredibly accessible and filled with takeaways for all educators who care deeply about equitable education. This is a book I'll give to educator friends because I believe it's a book we all need, not only for our own hearts but also for our students'."
-- TODD NESLONEY, Director of Culture & Strategic Leadership, Texas Elementary Principals and Supervisors Association; Author of When Kids Lead: An Adult's Guide to Inspiring, Empowering, and Growing Young Leaders

"Vu intimately understands the power books have to shape identity, particularly for young newcomers who seek belonging. Life, Literacy, and the Pursuit of Happiness is a compassionate and creative guide that challenges teachers to reimagine the role and importance of books in the lives of their immigrant students. Weaving