Teaching Fairly in an Unfair World was written to help teachers consider what makes an inclusive curriculum. It offers teachers challenging, open-ended ideas to help give students voice and to better understand their world. As a reader, it encouraged me to think critically about an educator’s role in culturally responsive and relevant pedagogy and in ensuring that our students feel appreciated and valued.

Each chapter provides important insight into creating a culture of fairness and inclusivity. Chapter topics include inclusive curriculum, critical thinking, emotional literacy and social justice. Author Kathleen Gould Lundy includes real-life stories and connections and poses thoughtful questions.

In the preface, Lundy writes that this book is for educators who are “confident enough to look critically at their privilege and power and be mindful about how these elements play out in their classrooms and pedagogy.” This book is meant to challenge us personally and professionally to be committed to making real changes in our classrooms and our school communities.

When reading this book, you will find yourself reflecting on your practice and challenging yourself to make it better through the lens of social justice, fairness, inclusivity and culturally responsive and relevant pedagogy. This resource provides a plethora of strategies, activities, ideas and opportunities to bring into your classroom. Curriculum connections are made to the arts, literacy, history, social studies and so much more.

While this resource is geared to grades 4 and up, most of the activities can be adapted to the younger grades. Many of the strategies listed are familiar to us, but I love that their focus is on social justice, inclusivity and a sense of self and community.

This book encourages educators to take a courageous stand for and with students. We can be agents of change!

Jessica Tutin is a member of the Grand Erie Teacher Local.