Drawing on more than three decades of experience as a scholar, teacher, and administrator, Gary A. Olson, a keen observer of higher education and a monthly columnist for the Chronicle of Higher Education, explores the intricacies of life in academe. These meditations, which appeared as columns in the Chronicle over a six-year span, explore a rich tapestry of subjects from the craft of academic administration to how institutions are reforming their operations. Also included are topics germane to faculty and their work, such as how to network within your discipline, how to report faculty accomplishments accurately, how to navigate the tenure and promotion system, and how to create a culture of recognition and reward for faculty, staff, and students. Many academics become preoccupied with the intricacies of their own disciplines and are not always cognizant of how other parts of their institutions work. Most go through their careers with an incomplete (and in some cases completely wrong) understanding of many aspects of academic life. Olson's essays shed light on the complex workings of our academic institutions and provide answers to important questions about the modern university: What are the limits of academic freedom? Exactly what is "shared governance?" Why are many universities reorganizing their academic units? What are successful ways to recruit first-rate faculty and staff? Witty, incisive, and entertaining, this book is for anyone interested in academic life and a must read for new professors and new administrators.

A New York Times Bestseller School is not the only place to find a teacher. In this beautiful picture book, learn the many surprising lessons animals have to teach us about friendship, compassion, and how to be a better creature in the world. Sy Montgomery has had many teachers in her life: some with two legs, others with four, or even eight! Some have had fur, feathers, or hooves. But they’ve all had one thing in common: a lesson to share. The animals Sy has met on her many world travels have taught her how to seek understanding in the most surprising ways, from being patient to finding forgiveness and respecting others. Gorillas, dogs, octopuses, tigers, and more all have shown Sy that there are no limits to the empathy and joy we can find in each other if only we take the time to connect. Based on the New York Times best-selling adult memoir, Sy Montgomery and Rebecca Green's beautiful, friendly guide is for readers young and old who wish to be better creatures in the world. Go ahead, pass it on.

From the creator of the all-time classic VERY HUNGRY CATERPILLAR comes a sweetly resonant story about the power of friendship--now available for little hands When a best friend moves away, it can be painful for the child who is left behind. But the spunky boy in this upbeat story makes up his mind to find his missing playmate. Friends tells a story alive with love and perseverance, brightened with vibrant art and Eric Carle's trademark fostering of imagination. Praise for Friends: “This story of love and determination is illustrated with Carle's extraordinary signature artwork. For anyone who would cross rivers and scale mountains for a beloved friend, this warmhearted story will create an emotional response. Young readers will learn the value of friendship and its many challenges.” —School Library Journal “Often dynamic and quite beautiful . . . A picture-book tribute to the strength of childhood friendships.” —Booklist

By a mother and daughter duo: “a bit of a ‘learn to sew’ book for children . . . provide[s] ample inspiration without intimidation for young crafters” (Publishers Weekly). This collection of 18 skill-building projects teaches children with no sewing experience how to sew their very own cuddly pals. From sewing on buttons to putting in zippers, this guide walks kids step-by-step through various skill levels. They will learn to embroider, turn corners, and make curves with these fun designs. Multiple examples of each project encourage them to explore ideas. Featuring shapes, critters, and monsters that appeal to kids’ imagination, the projects build on skills and develop creativity. “Written for children by Wendi and her daughter Jo . . . a book of sewing basics focusing on creating fun stuffed creatures, and it’s suitable for new or experienced sewists ages 9 and up. It’s kid-tested and approved, because all of the sewing was done by 11-year-old Jo and her friends . . . With Christmas coming, I can’t think of a more perfect book for kids and grown-ups alike. There is just so much cuteness that needs to be stitched and gifted!”—Wild Olive Blog

National Book Award finalist Sy Montgomery reflects on the personalities and quirks of 13 animals--her friends--who have profoundly affected her in this stunning, poetic, and life-affirming memoir featuring illustrations by Rebecca Green.