Shame of the Nation Cover

          This cover illustrates an African-American boy who is receiving his paper back from a disappointed teacher. Just like any other kid he has big dreams; dreams to become a doctor, lawyer or even a businessman. However, he doubts any of these goals are achievable, since his school lacks the resources to offer a real education. Just by the gesture of his arms over his head, is a clear indication of the frustration he is feeling. He feels that there is no hope and that he doesn’t have the capability of learning. He feels helpless and weak because no matter how hard he tries, he just doesn’t get it.  He figures there is no point in pursuing a further education because he doesn’t believe he is smart enough. He sees the unequal gap between his school and that of one in an affluent community. Yet he doesn’t see the false promises told by government officials that he won’t be “left behind” (No Child Left Behind Act). He also doesn’t see that he is one of many minority children that are locked in a failing school. Though more importantly, he doesn’t see his own ability to learn.

          In this book, Jonathan Kozol describes the harsh reality of our nation’s education system and how these poor, innocent children are being sabotaged, isolated and deprived by an unethical education system. He iterates if we as citizens were to join in and fight, we could make children like this boy feel like they have the ability to obtain a good education and see their dreams turn into reality. This boy is a representation of one in many minority children that are locked in these failing schools and unable to break free.